Jaafar Jackson makes cinema history as debut lead crosses $1bn with ‘Michael’

Film became first biopic to surpass global milestone, marking remarkable start to actor's screen career

Jaafar Jackson has achieved a rare milestone in modern cinema after his first feature film performance as a lead actor helped Michael become the first biographical film to surpass $1bn at the worldwide box office.

The Antoine Fuqua directed film, which chronicles the life and career of Michael Jackson, crossed the landmark during its theatrical run, setting multiple commercial records. Alongside becoming the highest grossing biopic ever released, Michael also established Lionsgate's first $1bn theatrical success and became only the second film of 2026 to reach the global milestone.

For Jaafar Jackson, the achievement carries an additional distinction. Michael marks his first feature film acting credit and his first leading screen role. As a result, he has become the first lead actor whose feature film acting debut has starred in a movie that has earned more than $1bn worldwide, an accomplishment widely noted by film fans following the movie's record breaking performance.

Jackson portrays his late uncle, Michael Jackson, tracing the entertainer's rise from his early years with the Jackson 5 through his emergence as one of the biggest music stars in history. The film also features Juliano Valdi as young Michael, Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson and Miles Teller as longtime manager John Branca.

Although Michael divided critics following its release, audiences responded far more enthusiastically. The film opened with a record setting global debut for a biopic and maintained strong box office momentum across international markets, particularly after expanding into Japan, where its late release helped push worldwide earnings beyond the $1bn mark.

The commercial success has rewritten the record books for the genre. Before Michael, Bohemian Rhapsody held the record as the highest grossing music biopic, while Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer stood as the highest grossing biographical film overall. Michael surpassed both films before eventually becoming the first biopic in cinema history to cross the billion dollar threshold.

Jackson's casting attracted considerable attention long before the film's release because of his family connection to the King of Pop. However, the project also represented an enormous professional challenge, asking a first time feature actor to carry one of the most closely watched studio productions of the decade. Despite the pressure, his performance received praise from many viewers and several critics, who highlighted his physical resemblance, dancing ability and commitment to portraying Michael Jackson's stage presence.

The film's financial performance has also strengthened its place in industry history. Beyond becoming the biggest biopic ever released, Michael demonstrated the enduring global appeal of Michael Jackson's music and legacy, drawing audiences across multiple generations and international markets.

While future acting projects for Jaafar Jackson have yet to be announced, his first appearance on the big screen has already secured a place in the record books.