Michael Jackson Biopic Dominates Box Office and Chases Bohemian Rhapsody Record

The biographical drama Michael, the highly anticipated film chronicling the early life of the late music icon Michael Jackson, has achieved a remarkable box office milestone in its opening days, surpassing the global gross of another major biopic, Bohemian Rhapsody. According to verified reports from Indonesian and Southeast Asian media outlets, the film has grossed approximately Rp 11.4 trillion (around $730 million) in its initial theatrical run, positioning it as a dominant force in the international box office landscape.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, Michael follows Jackson’s journey from his early days as the lead vocalist of The Jackson 5 to the height of his solo career, including iconic performances and creative milestones. The film stars Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, in the titular role, alongside an ensemble cast that includes Nia Long, KeiLyn Durrel Jones, and Mike Myers. Lionsgate serves as the primary distributor for the film in the United States, while Universal Pictures handles international releases.

The box office success of Michael underscores the enduring global fascination with Jackson’s legacy. The film’s release coincides with a resurgence of interest in Jackson’s music, as evidenced by the recent resurgence of his album The Essential Michael Jackson at the top of the UK charts, further cementing his status as the “King of Pop.” The biopic’s financial performance also highlights the strong demand for musical biographies, a genre that has seen significant success in recent years, including films like Rocketman (2019) and Elvis (2022).

While Bohemian Rhapsody, the 2018 biopic about Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, remains one of the highest-grossing music-related films of all time with a global gross of over $900 million, Michael’s early performance suggests it is on track to compete strongly in the same category. The film’s strong opening in key markets, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Southeast Asia, reflects its broad appeal across generations of fans.

The production of Michael faced delays due to the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike, which impacted filming schedules. However, the film’s eventual release in April 2026—marking the 38th anniversary of Jackson’s passing—has generated significant anticipation. The biopic’s focus on Jackson’s formative years, including his relationship with his family and the creative pressures that shaped his career, aims to offer a fresh perspective on the artist beyond his most famous performances.

As Michael continues its theatrical run, industry analysts will be closely watching its long-term performance, particularly in comparison to other high-profile biographical films. With Lionsgate and Universal Pictures backing the project, the film is positioned to leverage Jackson’s global fanbase for sustained box office success. The release also aligns with a broader trend of Hollywood revisiting iconic cultural figures through cinematic storytelling, a strategy that has proven lucrative in recent years.

For now, the film’s early box office triumph serves as a testament to the lasting impact of Michael Jackson’s music and legacy, ensuring that his story remains a compelling subject for audiences worldwide.