‘Michael’ is finally coming to streaming but when can fans watch it?
After dominating cinemas around the world, Michael is preparing for its next major milestone. The Michael Jackson biopic has officially secured its streaming release date following an extraordinary theatrical run that saw it become one of the biggest films of 2026.
Lionsgate's musical drama will begin streaming on Starz from August 10, giving audiences another opportunity to watch the film after its remarkable box office success. Released in cinemas on April 24, Michael grossed more than $1bn worldwide, making it one of the highest earning films of the year and one of the most successful music biopics ever released.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, Michael chronicles the life and career of the King of Pop, tracing his journey from performing with the Jackson 5 during the 1960s to becoming one of the world's most influential entertainers. The story also follows key milestones leading through the BAD TOUR, one of the defining periods of Michael Jackson's global career.
One of the film's biggest talking points has been the casting of Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson's nephew, in his feature film debut. The performance attracted widespread attention following the film's release, with many viewers praising his physical resemblance, dance ability and vocal mannerisms. Child actor Juliano Valdi portrays a young Michael during the earlier chapters of the story, marking another important introduction for a newcomer.
The supporting cast features Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Miles Teller as entertainment lawyer John Branca and Laura Harrier as music executive Suzanne de Passe. Kat Graham appears as Diana Ross, while Larenz Tate portrays Motown founder Berry Gordy. The Jackson family is further represented by Jamal R Henderson as Jermaine, Tre Horton as Marlon, Rhyan Hill as Tito, Joseph David Jones as Jackie and Jessica Sula as La Toya.
Development on Michael began after Lionsgate announced the project in February 2022. Antoine Fuqua and Jaafar Jackson officially joined the production in February 2023, with filming eventually leading to one of the year's most anticipated cinematic releases.
Critical discussion surrounding the film frequently centred on Jaafar Jackson's portrayal of his famous uncle. Variety film critic Owen Gleiberman praised the actor's work, writing that he captured Michael Jackson's appearance, voice and signature stage presence while also portraying the emotional qualities that shaped the performer behind the music.
The film's enormous commercial success has also fuelled speculation that the story could continue. Industry reports have suggested Lionsgate is expected to move forward with a sequel, although no official announcement has yet been made by the studio.
The streaming debut arrives only a few months after Michael completed its record breaking cinema run, allowing audiences who missed the theatrical release to experience the film at home. For longtime Michael Jackson fans and viewers discovering the story for the first time, the Starz release marks the next chapter for one of 2026's biggest entertainment successes.