Colman Domingo Defends Michael Jackson Biopic Amid Whitewashing Allegations Over Abuse Claims

Colman Domingo and Nia Long defended the Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” against accusations of whitewashing the singer’s history of child sexual abuse allegations during an appearance on NBC’s “Today” show on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.

The actors explained that the Antoine Fuqua-directed film, which focuses on Michael Jackson’s early life and rise to fame, intentionally ends in 1988 — years before the first public allegations surfaced in 2005. Domingo stated that the movie centers on “the makings of Michael” and presents “an intimate portrait of who Michael is … through his eyes.”

When asked by host Craig Melvin how they respond to critics who feel the film omits Jackson’s later controversies, Domingo acknowledged the possibility of a sequel that could address events after 1988. “There’s a possibility of it being a Part 2 that may deal with some other things that happened afterward,” he said, adding that the current film covers Jackson’s upbringing and his journey to becoming a solo artist.

The biopic stars Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s real-life nephew, in the title role, with Domingo portraying Joe Jackson, the singer’s father. The film is executive produced by John Branca and John McClain, executors of Michael Jackson’s estate, alongside director Antoine Fuqua.

Reviews for “Michael” have been divided, with some critics calling it “masterful” while others have described it as a “very safe and cautious exploration” of Jackson’s life and career. The film holds a Rotten Tomatoes score between 26% and 35% from certified critics.

TheWrap initially reported the domestic release of the film and the surrounding controversy, noting that it was originally intended to address the abuse allegations but was later re-shot and re-edited to exclude that content. No confirmed details exist about a potential sequel or its possible subject matter.

In related developments, Taj Jackson, son of Tito Jackson and Michael’s nephew, criticized media outlets on Twitter on April 21, 2026, for attempting to control the narrative around his uncle’s legacy. He wrote that the public should be allowed to watch the film and form their own opinions, stating, “Sorry media, u don’t get to control the narrative anymore of who Michael Jackson truly was. The public gets to watch this movie … they will decide for themselves.”

Fuqua previously expressed his personal stance on the allegations in an interview with The New Yorker, saying he is “not convinced that Jackson did what he is accused of doing.” He added that when hearing accusations against Black individuals in prominent positions, “there’s always pause.”

The film “Michael” premiered in theaters on Friday, April 24, 2026, and has sparked widespread discussion online and within the Jackson family about how the artist’s complex legacy is portrayed on screen.