Netflix drops 'Michael Jackson: The Verdict' trial docuseries trailer amid biopic buzz

The three-part series revisits the high-profile child molestation case in which Jackson was acquitted of all charges

Netflix has released a trailer for a Michael Jackson trial docuseries following debate around the new biopic.

Netflix has released the first trailer for a new documentary series examining Michael Jackson’s 2005 criminal trial, shortly after the commercial success of the biopic Michael reignited debate over the late singer’s legacy and past abuse allegations.

According to reports, the three-part series, titled Michael Jackson: The Verdict, will premiere on June 3 and revisit the high-profile child molestation case involving 13-year-old Gavin Arvizo. Jackson was acquitted of all charges in 2005.

The trailer opens with footage of police searching Neverland Ranch while a voiceover states, “He's the most famous man in the world, being accused of the most heinous crime in the world.”

The series includes interviews with jurors, media figures and individuals connected to both the prosecution and defence teams. One juror says in the trailer, “What has to be proven is beyond a reasonable doubt. Can you doubt that happened?”

Additional footage features courtroom sketches, scenes of supporters gathering outside court and clips of actor Macaulay Culkin arriving to testify on Jackson’s behalf. Culkin previously stated in interviews that Jackson “never did anything to me”.

The release follows the box office success of Michael, starring Jaafar Jackson as the singer. Despite strong ticket sales, the film faced criticism for excluding references to the allegations made against Jackson during his lifetime.

Viewers online questioned the timing of Netflix’s release, with comments describing it as “crazy smart” marketing while the biopic remains in cinemas.

The filmmakers behind the documentary told Tudum that the aim was to present “a forensic look at the trial as a whole” using eyewitness accounts and historical records.