Exclusive: Longtime Lionsgate Film Distribution Head David Spitz is exiting, Deadline has learned, with former STX distribution vet Kevin Grayson getting named President of Domestic Distribution of the studio’s motion picture group.
‘The Hunger Games’
Spitz came to Lionsgate via its absorption of Blair Witch Project studio Artisan. Before that, Spitz was at Reservoir Dogs distributor, Live Entertainment which was acquired by Artisan. Spitz, son of legendary late distribution boss Jimmy Spitz, has had a leadership role at Lionsgate since 2003. Spitz handled several franchise hits including John Wick (the latest Chapter 4 of which became the highest grossing in the franchise with $180M+ this weekend), Hunger Games, Twilight Saga, Saw, the Tyler Perry canon and Expendables. He was also behind such notable counterprogramming and awards hits as La La Land, Knives Out, Wonder, Crash, Fahrenheit 9/11 and Precious, among many others.
“David has been an incredibly valued leader of Lionsgate...
‘The Hunger Games’
Spitz came to Lionsgate via its absorption of Blair Witch Project studio Artisan. Before that, Spitz was at Reservoir Dogs distributor, Live Entertainment which was acquired by Artisan. Spitz, son of legendary late distribution boss Jimmy Spitz, has had a leadership role at Lionsgate since 2003. Spitz handled several franchise hits including John Wick (the latest Chapter 4 of which became the highest grossing in the franchise with $180M+ this weekend), Hunger Games, Twilight Saga, Saw, the Tyler Perry canon and Expendables. He was also behind such notable counterprogramming and awards hits as La La Land, Knives Out, Wonder, Crash, Fahrenheit 9/11 and Precious, among many others.
“David has been an incredibly valued leader of Lionsgate...
- 5/5/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Queen + Adam Lambert are bringing their Rhapsody Tour back to North America for their first shows on this side of the Atlantic since 2019. The tour kicks off Oct. 4 in Baltimore, Maryland, and wraps up Nov. 11 in Los Angeles, California.
“This tour has lots of new bells and lots of new whistles,” Queen guitarist Brian May tells Rolling Stone. “We’ve evolved as performers, I think. We’ve stepped up our game. We have better chemistry than ever. We understand each other better than ever, and we feel more free in...
“This tour has lots of new bells and lots of new whistles,” Queen guitarist Brian May tells Rolling Stone. “We’ve evolved as performers, I think. We’ve stepped up our game. We have better chemistry than ever. We understand each other better than ever, and we feel more free in...
- 3/24/2023
- by Andy Greene
- Rollingstone.com
‘Michael’, the biopic about Michael Jackson, will receive more than $21 million in California tax credits, the state’s film commission announced recently.
The California Film Commission announced the latest round of credit allocations, totalling $81.7 million for 24 projects, reports ‘Variety’. The commission stated that ‘Michael’ will generate $120 million in “qualified” in-state spending, which is more than any other project in the 14-year history of the tax credit programme.
The project was announced in January, with Jackson’s nephew Jaafar in the lead role. John Branca and John McClain, the executors of the Jackson estate, are producing with Graham King.
As per ‘Variety’, the project comes with controversy. Dan Reed, the director of ‘Leaving Neverland’, the documentary that accused Jackson of sexually assaulting two young boys, slammed the new film in a Guardian column, saying it will “will glorify a man who raped children.”
The state film commission also announced that ‘The Thomas Crown Affair...
The California Film Commission announced the latest round of credit allocations, totalling $81.7 million for 24 projects, reports ‘Variety’. The commission stated that ‘Michael’ will generate $120 million in “qualified” in-state spending, which is more than any other project in the 14-year history of the tax credit programme.
The project was announced in January, with Jackson’s nephew Jaafar in the lead role. John Branca and John McClain, the executors of the Jackson estate, are producing with Graham King.
As per ‘Variety’, the project comes with controversy. Dan Reed, the director of ‘Leaving Neverland’, the documentary that accused Jackson of sexually assaulting two young boys, slammed the new film in a Guardian column, saying it will “will glorify a man who raped children.”
The state film commission also announced that ‘The Thomas Crown Affair...
- 3/7/2023
- by News Bureau
- GlamSham
Lionsgate and Graham King’s upcoming project among 24 conditionally approved for latest round.
Lionsgate and Graham King’s upcoming Michael Jackson biopic is on track to generate more in-state spending than another other film in the 14-year history of California’s tax credit programme, the California Film Commission said on Monday (March 6).
Screen understands Michael will generate an estimated $120.1m in qualified in-state spending, which refers to wages paid to below-the-line workers and payments to in-state vendors.
State laws forbid the film commission from saying how much a project is forecast to generate overall, including unqualified spend, which covers payments...
Lionsgate and Graham King’s upcoming Michael Jackson biopic is on track to generate more in-state spending than another other film in the 14-year history of California’s tax credit programme, the California Film Commission said on Monday (March 6).
Screen understands Michael will generate an estimated $120.1m in qualified in-state spending, which refers to wages paid to below-the-line workers and payments to in-state vendors.
State laws forbid the film commission from saying how much a project is forecast to generate overall, including unqualified spend, which covers payments...
- 3/7/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Lionsgate and Graham King’s upcoming project among 24 conditionally approved for latest round.
Lionsgate and Graham King’s upcoming Michael Jackson biopic is on track to generate more in-state spending than another other film in the 14-year history of California’s tax credit programme, the California Film Commission said on Monday (March 6).
Screen understands Michael will generate an estimated $120.1m in qualified in-state spending, which refers to wages paid to below-the-line workers and payments to in-state vendors.
State laws forbid the film commission from saying how much a project is forecast to generate overall, including unqualified spend, which covers payments...
Lionsgate and Graham King’s upcoming Michael Jackson biopic is on track to generate more in-state spending than another other film in the 14-year history of California’s tax credit programme, the California Film Commission said on Monday (March 6).
Screen understands Michael will generate an estimated $120.1m in qualified in-state spending, which refers to wages paid to below-the-line workers and payments to in-state vendors.
State laws forbid the film commission from saying how much a project is forecast to generate overall, including unqualified spend, which covers payments...
- 3/7/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Lionsgate and Graham King’s upcoming project among 24 conditionally approved for latest round.
Lionsgate and Graham King’s upcoming Michael Jackson biopic is on track to generate more in-state spending than another other film in the 14-year history of California’s tax credit programme, the California Film Commission said on Monday (March 6).
Screen understands Michael will generate an estimated $120.1m in qualified in-state spending, which refers to wages paid to below-the-line workers and payments to in-state vendors.
State laws forbid the film commission from saying how much a project is forecast to generate overall, including unqualified spend, which covers payments...
Lionsgate and Graham King’s upcoming Michael Jackson biopic is on track to generate more in-state spending than another other film in the 14-year history of California’s tax credit programme, the California Film Commission said on Monday (March 6).
Screen understands Michael will generate an estimated $120.1m in qualified in-state spending, which refers to wages paid to below-the-line workers and payments to in-state vendors.
State laws forbid the film commission from saying how much a project is forecast to generate overall, including unqualified spend, which covers payments...
- 3/7/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
“Michael,” the Lionsgate biopic about Michael Jackson, will receive more than $21 million in California tax credits, the state’s film commission announced Monday.
The California Film Commission announced the latest round of credit allocations, totaling $81.7 million for 24 projects. The commission stated that “Michael” will generate $120 million in “qualified” in-state spending, which is more than any other project in the 14-year history of the tax credit program.
The project was announced in January, with Jackson’s nephew Jaafar in the lead role. John Branca and John McClain, the executors of the Jackson estate, are producing with Graham King.
The project comes with controversy. Dan Reed, the director of “Leaving Neverland,” the documentary that accused Jackson of sexually assaulting two young boys, slammed the new film in a Guardian column, saying it will “will glorify a man who raped children.”
The state film commission also announced that “The Thomas Crown Affair” will receive $13.8 million,...
The California Film Commission announced the latest round of credit allocations, totaling $81.7 million for 24 projects. The commission stated that “Michael” will generate $120 million in “qualified” in-state spending, which is more than any other project in the 14-year history of the tax credit program.
The project was announced in January, with Jackson’s nephew Jaafar in the lead role. John Branca and John McClain, the executors of the Jackson estate, are producing with Graham King.
The project comes with controversy. Dan Reed, the director of “Leaving Neverland,” the documentary that accused Jackson of sexually assaulting two young boys, slammed the new film in a Guardian column, saying it will “will glorify a man who raped children.”
The state film commission also announced that “The Thomas Crown Affair” will receive $13.8 million,...
- 3/6/2023
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
McElroy was previously at Twitter and Warner Bros.
Lionsgate has recruited former Twitter and Warner Bros marketing executive Briana McElroy as head of worldwide digital marketing for its Motion Picture Group.
McElroy will report to the group’s president of marketing Jp Richards and co-president Keri Moore and work on a Lionsgate slate that includes John Wick: Chapter 4, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, the continuation of the Saw franchise and the Graham King-produced, Antoine Fuqua-directed film about Michael Jackson.
McElroy was previously a client lead at Twitter and director of digital marketing at Warner Bros Pictures,...
Lionsgate has recruited former Twitter and Warner Bros marketing executive Briana McElroy as head of worldwide digital marketing for its Motion Picture Group.
McElroy will report to the group’s president of marketing Jp Richards and co-president Keri Moore and work on a Lionsgate slate that includes John Wick: Chapter 4, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, the continuation of the Saw franchise and the Graham King-produced, Antoine Fuqua-directed film about Michael Jackson.
McElroy was previously a client lead at Twitter and director of digital marketing at Warner Bros Pictures,...
- 2/16/2023
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Former Twitter exec Briana McElroy has been named head of worldwide digital marketing for the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group.
McElroy most recently served as global client lead, media and entertainment at Twitter, where she oversaw partnerships with Warner Bros. Discovery and The Walt Disney Company. Before Twitter, she was director of digital marketing at Warner Bros. Pictures, driving digital marketing campaigns for Wonder Woman, Kong: Skull Island, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Annabelle: Creation, Ocean’s 8, A Star Is Born and Pokemon Detective Pikachu.
Her hire by Lionsgate was announced on Feb. 16 by Jp Richards and Keri Moore, who head up theatrical marketing for the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group. While with Lionsgate, McElroy will drive 360 digital campaigns for upcoming releases like John Wick: Chapter 4, starring Keanu Reeves, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, and Now You See Me 3, to be directed by Ruben Fleischer.
McElroy most recently served as global client lead, media and entertainment at Twitter, where she oversaw partnerships with Warner Bros. Discovery and The Walt Disney Company. Before Twitter, she was director of digital marketing at Warner Bros. Pictures, driving digital marketing campaigns for Wonder Woman, Kong: Skull Island, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Annabelle: Creation, Ocean’s 8, A Star Is Born and Pokemon Detective Pikachu.
Her hire by Lionsgate was announced on Feb. 16 by Jp Richards and Keri Moore, who head up theatrical marketing for the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group. While with Lionsgate, McElroy will drive 360 digital campaigns for upcoming releases like John Wick: Chapter 4, starring Keanu Reeves, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, and Now You See Me 3, to be directed by Ruben Fleischer.
- 2/16/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A biopic highlighting the life and career of Michael Jackson is on the way. While many anticipate its release, the director of the controversial documentary series Leaving Neverland is not a fan. In a lengthy opinion piece, he outlines why the biopic is in poor taste.
Michael Jackson | Francis Sylvain/Afp via Getty Images Michael Jackson’s biopic will star the late icon’s nephew
Famed Training Day director Antoine Fuqua has been tapped as the director for the Lionsgate biopic. Deadline reports that Jackson’s nephew, 26-year-old nephew Jaafar Jackson, will star as the Moonwalk king in the film. Fuqua confirmed such in a post to his official Instagram account. Music runs in the family dynasty’s bloodline as Jaafar is a fellow artist who is the son of Jermaine Jackson.
Source: YouTube
The script was penned by John Logan and is being produced by Graham King. Along with...
Michael Jackson | Francis Sylvain/Afp via Getty Images Michael Jackson’s biopic will star the late icon’s nephew
Famed Training Day director Antoine Fuqua has been tapped as the director for the Lionsgate biopic. Deadline reports that Jackson’s nephew, 26-year-old nephew Jaafar Jackson, will star as the Moonwalk king in the film. Fuqua confirmed such in a post to his official Instagram account. Music runs in the family dynasty’s bloodline as Jaafar is a fellow artist who is the son of Jermaine Jackson.
Source: YouTube
The script was penned by John Logan and is being produced by Graham King. Along with...
- 2/9/2023
- by Brenda Alexander
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
“Leaving Neverland” director Dan Reed condemned the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, saying in a Sunday op-ed in The Guardian that it will “glorify a man who raped children,” pointing to the lack of outrage regarding its creation.
“In an era when full-throated outrage accompanies anything that smells of delegitimization or insensitivity against a vulnerable group, it amounts to a deafening silence,” Reed wrote. “No one is talking about ‘canceling’ this movie, which will glorify a man who raped children.”
The biopic, which is slated to begin filming under “Bohemian Rhapsody” producer Graham King,” comes four years after “Leaving Neverland,” which illuminated the heartbreaking and disturbing stories of Wade Robson, who Jackson sexually abused when Robson was 7 years old, and James Safechuck, whose nonconsensual relationship with the King of Pop began when Safechuck was 10, premiered at Sundance in 2019.
Also Read:
‘Rust’ Director Joel Souza Will Testify for Prosecution in Alec Baldwin...
“In an era when full-throated outrage accompanies anything that smells of delegitimization or insensitivity against a vulnerable group, it amounts to a deafening silence,” Reed wrote. “No one is talking about ‘canceling’ this movie, which will glorify a man who raped children.”
The biopic, which is slated to begin filming under “Bohemian Rhapsody” producer Graham King,” comes four years after “Leaving Neverland,” which illuminated the heartbreaking and disturbing stories of Wade Robson, who Jackson sexually abused when Robson was 7 years old, and James Safechuck, whose nonconsensual relationship with the King of Pop began when Safechuck was 10, premiered at Sundance in 2019.
Also Read:
‘Rust’ Director Joel Souza Will Testify for Prosecution in Alec Baldwin...
- 2/5/2023
- by Loree Seitz
- The Wrap
“Bohemian Rhapsody” producer Graham King’s upcoming Michael Jackson biopic has been picking up steam in recent weeks, enlisting Antoine Fuqua to direct and casting the pop star’s nephew Jafaar Jackson to play him. The project comes nearly four years after Dan Reed’s HBO documentary “Leaving Neverland” shed new light on the child molestation allegations made against Jackson. But while the documentary caused many fans to see Jackson in a new light, the series’ director says he still thinks the allegations aren’t being taken seriously enough.
In a new op-ed in The Guardian, Reed reiterated his criticisms of Jackson and why he still believes the singer is guilty despite being acquitted in court.
“The most shocking insight of ‘Leaving Neverland,’ and the most painful for any parent to accept, is that, as part of the grooming process, the predator makes the child fall in love with him,...
In a new op-ed in The Guardian, Reed reiterated his criticisms of Jackson and why he still believes the singer is guilty despite being acquitted in court.
“The most shocking insight of ‘Leaving Neverland,’ and the most painful for any parent to accept, is that, as part of the grooming process, the predator makes the child fall in love with him,...
- 2/5/2023
- by Christian Zilko
- Indiewire
The director of Leaving Neverland, the documentary that chronicled two accusers’ sexual abuse claims against Michael Jackson, is criticizing a planned biopic about the late singer.
In a guest column for The Guardian published Sunday, Dan Reed criticized the decision to a biopic about the music icon, questioning why “no one is talking about ‘canceling’ this movie, which will glorify a man who raped children.”
“It seems that the press, his fans and the vast older demographic who grew up loving Jackson are willing to set aside his unhealthy relationship with children and just go along with the music,” Reed wrote.
He went on to directly address the filmmaking team, which includes director Antoine Fuqua, writer John Logan, as well as producers Graham King, John Branca and John McClain, the latter of whom are co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate. Reed challenged whether the film would be able to represent alleged moments of abuse.
In a guest column for The Guardian published Sunday, Dan Reed criticized the decision to a biopic about the music icon, questioning why “no one is talking about ‘canceling’ this movie, which will glorify a man who raped children.”
“It seems that the press, his fans and the vast older demographic who grew up loving Jackson are willing to set aside his unhealthy relationship with children and just go along with the music,” Reed wrote.
He went on to directly address the filmmaking team, which includes director Antoine Fuqua, writer John Logan, as well as producers Graham King, John Branca and John McClain, the latter of whom are co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate. Reed challenged whether the film would be able to represent alleged moments of abuse.
- 2/5/2023
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The director of Leaving Neverland, the 2019 documentary that accused Michael Jackson of child sexual abuse, has penned an op-ed slamming plans to make an authorized biopic about the King of Pop.
Writing in the Guardian, filmmaker Dan Reed said that the movie “will glorify a man who raped children.”
“What the total absence of outrage accompanying the announcement of this movie tells us is that Jackson’s seduction is still a living force, operating from beyond the grave,” Reed wrote. “It seems that the press, his fans and the vast...
Writing in the Guardian, filmmaker Dan Reed said that the movie “will glorify a man who raped children.”
“What the total absence of outrage accompanying the announcement of this movie tells us is that Jackson’s seduction is still a living force, operating from beyond the grave,” Reed wrote. “It seems that the press, his fans and the vast...
- 2/5/2023
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
The proposed new Michael Jackson biopic will glorify a man who abused children, according to the director of Leaving Neverland.
Filming is due to begin on the story of Jackson’s life, produced by Graham King, with the cooperation of John Branca and John McClain, the co-executors of Jackson’s estate. The film will be directed by Emancipation‘s Antoine Fuqua from a script by Gladiator‘s John Logan, and the King of Pop’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, will play him in the film for Lionsgate.
Leaving Neverland‘s director Dan Reed released his searing documentary in 2019, in which he interviewed at length two men – Wade Robson and James Safechuck – both of whom had been invited as children to stay with Jackson at his California ranch, and to accompany him on tour.
In the four-hour documentary, Robson...
Filming is due to begin on the story of Jackson’s life, produced by Graham King, with the cooperation of John Branca and John McClain, the co-executors of Jackson’s estate. The film will be directed by Emancipation‘s Antoine Fuqua from a script by Gladiator‘s John Logan, and the King of Pop’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, will play him in the film for Lionsgate.
Leaving Neverland‘s director Dan Reed released his searing documentary in 2019, in which he interviewed at length two men – Wade Robson and James Safechuck – both of whom had been invited as children to stay with Jackson at his California ranch, and to accompany him on tour.
In the four-hour documentary, Robson...
- 2/5/2023
- by Caroline Frost
- Deadline Film + TV
Michael Jackson‘s death in 2009 shocked the world, and in the years since then, Jackson’s legacy has been preserved by those who loved him as well as his estate. Now, his estate is backing a new project that will cement Jackson’s legacy on screen forever: Michael, a new biopic chronicling the life of the “Thriller” singer. As for who will play the Grammy-winning performer on screen, the job will be kept in the family: Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson has been announced as the actor who will play him.
Michael Jackson | Kevin Mazur/WireImage Michael Jackson’s life will be the subject of a new biopic, ‘Michael’
The new Lionsgate-backed film Michael will be directed by Antoine Fuqua. The Emancipation director shared the news on Instagram, as well as who would be playing Jackson: Jermaine Jackson’s 26-year-old son Jaafar. “Proud to announce Jaafar Jackson as Michael...
Michael Jackson | Kevin Mazur/WireImage Michael Jackson’s life will be the subject of a new biopic, ‘Michael’
The new Lionsgate-backed film Michael will be directed by Antoine Fuqua. The Emancipation director shared the news on Instagram, as well as who would be playing Jackson: Jermaine Jackson’s 26-year-old son Jaafar. “Proud to announce Jaafar Jackson as Michael...
- 1/31/2023
- by Chris Malone
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson's nephew has been cast to play him in the biopic Michael. Lionsgate's upcoming biopic will chronicle the life and legacy of the legendary pop star, who hailed from a musical family that made up the child pop band, the Jackson 5. After moving on from the group, Jackson would achieve one of the most successful musical careers of all time. Michael has already tapped Training Day's Antoine Fuqua as director and now, the movie has made its first major casting.
Michael has officially cast the late pop star's nephew, Jaafar Jackson, to play his uncle in the upcoming biopic. Jaafar Jackson is the second-youngest son of Jermaine Jackson, a former Jackson 5 member and brother of Michael.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Antoine Fuqua (@antoinefuqua)
The announcement was made by Fuqua on Instagram, who shared a photo of Jaafar Jackson wearing a...
Michael has officially cast the late pop star's nephew, Jaafar Jackson, to play his uncle in the upcoming biopic. Jaafar Jackson is the second-youngest son of Jermaine Jackson, a former Jackson 5 member and brother of Michael.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Antoine Fuqua (@antoinefuqua)
The announcement was made by Fuqua on Instagram, who shared a photo of Jaafar Jackson wearing a...
- 1/31/2023
- by Adam Bentz
- ScreenRant.com
A couple of weeks ago, word arrived that Antoine Fuqua would direct a biopic of controversial music megastar Michael Jackson. Speculation naturally turned to who might play Jackson, and now we have an answer: the singer's 26-year-old nephew, Jaafar Jackson.
Jackson, who is the son of Michael's brother Jermaine, has established a social media presence as a talented singer and dancer, but this role would seem to be fraught with controversy. And if the team behind the film sought to defuse that in any way, casting one of Jackson's extended family would not seem to be the best option.
Still, the passion project of producer Graham King and writer John Logan aims to chart Jackson's rise to fame, his troubled family life, his musical career, but not ignoring his chaotic personal life, plastic surgery and the pedophile accusations that dogged his later years up to his death in 2009 at age...
Jackson, who is the son of Michael's brother Jermaine, has established a social media presence as a talented singer and dancer, but this role would seem to be fraught with controversy. And if the team behind the film sought to defuse that in any way, casting one of Jackson's extended family would not seem to be the best option.
Still, the passion project of producer Graham King and writer John Logan aims to chart Jackson's rise to fame, his troubled family life, his musical career, but not ignoring his chaotic personal life, plastic surgery and the pedophile accusations that dogged his later years up to his death in 2009 at age...
- 1/30/2023
- by James White
- Empire - Movies
Jaafar Jackson will portray his uncle Michael Jackson in the upcoming Antoine Fuqua-directed biopic, Michael.
The film is being touted to explore all aspects of the pop icon’s life, “including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time,” as the studio noted to Variety.
Given the biopic has the approval of the Michael Jackson estate, it’s unclear if the child sexual abuse allegations against the late musical icon — widely documented in 2019’s Leaving Neverland — will be addressed in Michael. In...
The film is being touted to explore all aspects of the pop icon’s life, “including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time,” as the studio noted to Variety.
Given the biopic has the approval of the Michael Jackson estate, it’s unclear if the child sexual abuse allegations against the late musical icon — widely documented in 2019’s Leaving Neverland — will be addressed in Michael. In...
- 1/30/2023
- by Althea Legaspi
- Rollingstone.com
Jaafar Jackson is set to star as Michael Jackson in Lionsgate’s upcoming biopic “Michael”.
The 26-year-old will be playing his uncle in the project, which “will give audiences the never-before-told and in-depth portrayal of the complicated man who became the King of Pop.”
“Michael”, which is being directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by Graham King, is set to “explore all aspects of Michael’s life, including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.”
Jaafar is Jermaine Jackson’s second youngest son.
Photo credit: Jourdynn Jackson
Read More: Michael Jackson’s Biopic In Works, Antoine Fuqua To Direct
Michael’s mother Katherine shared of the casting news, “Jaafar embodies my son. It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers.”
Producer King added, “I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away...
The 26-year-old will be playing his uncle in the project, which “will give audiences the never-before-told and in-depth portrayal of the complicated man who became the King of Pop.”
“Michael”, which is being directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by Graham King, is set to “explore all aspects of Michael’s life, including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.”
Jaafar is Jermaine Jackson’s second youngest son.
Photo credit: Jourdynn Jackson
Read More: Michael Jackson’s Biopic In Works, Antoine Fuqua To Direct
Michael’s mother Katherine shared of the casting news, “Jaafar embodies my son. It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers.”
Producer King added, “I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away...
- 1/30/2023
- by Becca Longmire
- ET Canada
Image Source: Getty / Araya Diaz / Barry King
With the explosion of celebrity biopics in recent years - "Elvis," about rock legend Elvis Presley, "Bohemian Rhapsody" about Queen singer Freddie Mercury, and "Rocketman" about icon Elton John, to name a few - it was due time for Jackson's simultaneously fascinating and tumultuous personal and professional life to be highlighted in a feature film. Well, it's happening. The King of Pop is coming to a movie theater near you soon, and we finally know who's portraying him: his nephew, Jaafar Jackson.
It was announced on Jan. 18 via Deadline that the late Michael Jackson's story will be told in a new Lionsgate biopic directed by the acclaimed Antoine Fuqua and coproduced by "Bohemian Rhapsody" producer Graham King. On Jan. 30, Fuqua revealed Jaafar's casting in an Instagram post that included a photo of him dressed like his late uncle. He captioned it, "Proud...
With the explosion of celebrity biopics in recent years - "Elvis," about rock legend Elvis Presley, "Bohemian Rhapsody" about Queen singer Freddie Mercury, and "Rocketman" about icon Elton John, to name a few - it was due time for Jackson's simultaneously fascinating and tumultuous personal and professional life to be highlighted in a feature film. Well, it's happening. The King of Pop is coming to a movie theater near you soon, and we finally know who's portraying him: his nephew, Jaafar Jackson.
It was announced on Jan. 18 via Deadline that the late Michael Jackson's story will be told in a new Lionsgate biopic directed by the acclaimed Antoine Fuqua and coproduced by "Bohemian Rhapsody" producer Graham King. On Jan. 30, Fuqua revealed Jaafar's casting in an Instagram post that included a photo of him dressed like his late uncle. He captioned it, "Proud...
- 1/30/2023
- by Simrin Purhar
- Popsugar.com
Antoine Fuqua directing from screenplay by John Logan (The Aviator). Production scheduled to start this year.
Michael Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson has been cast as the lead in Jackson and will portray the legendary performer in the upcoming biopic for producer Graham King and Lionsgate.
The 26-year-old (pictured) is the second youngest son to Jermaine Jackson and nephew to Michael Jackson. Principal photography is scheduled to commence this year and the film is being produced by King and the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain.
Antoine Fuqua directs from a screenplay by John Logan...
Michael Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson has been cast as the lead in Jackson and will portray the legendary performer in the upcoming biopic for producer Graham King and Lionsgate.
The 26-year-old (pictured) is the second youngest son to Jermaine Jackson and nephew to Michael Jackson. Principal photography is scheduled to commence this year and the film is being produced by King and the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain.
Antoine Fuqua directs from a screenplay by John Logan...
- 1/30/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Antoine Fuqua directing from screenplay by John Logan (The Aviator). Production scheduled to start this year.
Michael Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson has been cast as the leadin Jackson and will portray the legendary performer in the upcoming biopic for producer Graham King and Lionsgate.
The 26-year-old (pictured) is the second youngest son to Jermaine Jackson and nephew to Michael Jackson. Principal photography is scheduled to commence this year and the film is being produced by King and the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain.
Antoine Fuqua directs from a screenplay by John Logan (The Aviator...
Michael Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson has been cast as the leadin Jackson and will portray the legendary performer in the upcoming biopic for producer Graham King and Lionsgate.
The 26-year-old (pictured) is the second youngest son to Jermaine Jackson and nephew to Michael Jackson. Principal photography is scheduled to commence this year and the film is being produced by King and the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain.
Antoine Fuqua directs from a screenplay by John Logan (The Aviator...
- 1/30/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Director Antoine Fuqua’s forthcoming Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, has finally found its lead star.
Reports first emerged in 2019 that Bohemian Rhapsody producer Graham King had acquired the rights to make a film based on the life of the late singer in all of its “complexity”.
He had also acquired the rights to use all of Jackson’s music in the movie, which will explore the singer’s “complex life”.
Now, a few years later, with the Emancipation director officially attached, it has been revealed that Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson will portray his uncle in the movie.
“Jaafar embodies my son. It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers,” said Jackson’s mother, Katherine Jackson (via Variety).
Jaafar is the second youngest son of Jermaine Jackson, songwriter, producer, Jackson 5 member and older brother of Jackson.
Producer King said the team had...
Reports first emerged in 2019 that Bohemian Rhapsody producer Graham King had acquired the rights to make a film based on the life of the late singer in all of its “complexity”.
He had also acquired the rights to use all of Jackson’s music in the movie, which will explore the singer’s “complex life”.
Now, a few years later, with the Emancipation director officially attached, it has been revealed that Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson will portray his uncle in the movie.
“Jaafar embodies my son. It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers,” said Jackson’s mother, Katherine Jackson (via Variety).
Jaafar is the second youngest son of Jermaine Jackson, songwriter, producer, Jackson 5 member and older brother of Jackson.
Producer King said the team had...
- 1/30/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - Film
Antoine Fuqua is keeping things close-knit for his upcoming Michael Jackson biopic. According to Deadline, Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, will play the King of Pop in the Fuqua-directed film. Fuqua confirmed Jackson’s inclusion through Instagram. Fuqua’s social media update includes a photo of Jaafar dancing in a private studio with wall-to-wall mirrors. In the image, Jaafar is wearing Jackson’s signature black shoes made from Florsheim Imperial leather and a black fedora. Jaafar is striking a classic M.J. pose as he evaluates his moves from every angle.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Antoine Fuqua (@antoinefuqua)
Jaafar Jackson is a singer and son writer, and the son of Jermaine Jackson, one of Michael’s brothers and a former member of the Jackson 5. Talent runs in the family, and Jaafar has been singing and dancing since age twelve. In addition to writing and performing original music,...
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Antoine Fuqua (@antoinefuqua)
Jaafar Jackson is a singer and son writer, and the son of Jermaine Jackson, one of Michael’s brothers and a former member of the Jackson 5. Talent runs in the family, and Jaafar has been singing and dancing since age twelve. In addition to writing and performing original music,...
- 1/30/2023
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
In lieu of finding an A-list star to play the King of Pop, Lionsgate is keeping it in the family. Jaafar Jackson, the nephew of Michael Jackson, will play his uncle in the upcoming biopic “Michael,” it was announced January 30.
Jaafar Jackson is the son of Jackson 5 member and Michal Jackson’s brother Jermaine Jackson. Antoine Fuqua directs the film which will be 26-year-old Jaafar Jackson’s acting debut.
“I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away by the way he organically personifies the spirit and personality of Michael,” Graham King, a producer on the film, said in a statement. “It was something so powerful that even after conducting a worldwide search, it was clear that he is the only person to take on this role. I am beyond thrilled that he has come on board to portray his uncle and cannot wait for the world to...
Jaafar Jackson is the son of Jackson 5 member and Michal Jackson’s brother Jermaine Jackson. Antoine Fuqua directs the film which will be 26-year-old Jaafar Jackson’s acting debut.
“I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away by the way he organically personifies the spirit and personality of Michael,” Graham King, a producer on the film, said in a statement. “It was something so powerful that even after conducting a worldwide search, it was clear that he is the only person to take on this role. I am beyond thrilled that he has come on board to portray his uncle and cannot wait for the world to...
- 1/30/2023
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
Jaafar Jackson is portraying his uncle Michael Jackson in Lionsgate’s upcoming biopic “Michael,” directed by Antoine Fuqua.
“Michael” is expected to depict the complicated legacy of the man who became known as the King of Pop. According to the studio, the film will explore all aspects of his life, “including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.”
The film is being made with the cooperation of the Michael Jackson estate, which may influence the way “Michael” depicts the multiple allegations of child sexual abuse that were brought against Jackson during his career and following his death. Jackson has denied allegations of child sexual abuse and he was tried, and found not guilty, of child molestation in 2003. Jackson died in 2009 at the age of 50 and always maintained his innocence, but the claims continue to cloud his legacy.
“Michael” will be the first...
“Michael” is expected to depict the complicated legacy of the man who became known as the King of Pop. According to the studio, the film will explore all aspects of his life, “including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.”
The film is being made with the cooperation of the Michael Jackson estate, which may influence the way “Michael” depicts the multiple allegations of child sexual abuse that were brought against Jackson during his career and following his death. Jackson has denied allegations of child sexual abuse and he was tried, and found not guilty, of child molestation in 2003. Jackson died in 2009 at the age of 50 and always maintained his innocence, but the claims continue to cloud his legacy.
“Michael” will be the first...
- 1/30/2023
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Antoine Fuqua has moonwalked into the director’s chair for a new Michael Jackson biopic, which will star Jackson’s 26-year-old nephew, Jaafar Jackson.
As previously reported, the script for Michael comes from John Logan, the screenwriter behind several good movies and a few duds (Star Trek: Nemesis). According to Deadline, the film will “deal squarely with the pedophile accusations that dogged his later years up to his death in 2009 at age 50, from cardiac arrest caused by a cocktail of sedatives.” However, Michael comes with the blessing of the Jackson estate and will be produced by Graham King, best known for the toothless Queen biopic Bohemian Rhapsody, so maybe don’t expect anything too damaging to the Jackson brand.
Jaafar Jackson is the son of Jermaine Jackson, Michael’s older brother and former Jackson 5 member. Jaafar is a singer and dancer in his own right, having released a song called...
As previously reported, the script for Michael comes from John Logan, the screenwriter behind several good movies and a few duds (Star Trek: Nemesis). According to Deadline, the film will “deal squarely with the pedophile accusations that dogged his later years up to his death in 2009 at age 50, from cardiac arrest caused by a cocktail of sedatives.” However, Michael comes with the blessing of the Jackson estate and will be produced by Graham King, best known for the toothless Queen biopic Bohemian Rhapsody, so maybe don’t expect anything too damaging to the Jackson brand.
Jaafar Jackson is the son of Jermaine Jackson, Michael’s older brother and former Jackson 5 member. Jaafar is a singer and dancer in his own right, having released a song called...
- 1/30/2023
- by Wren Graves
- Consequence - Film News
Michael Jackson‘s nephew Jaafar Jackson will play him in the biopic about the singer’s life. Lionsgate is behind the project, titled Michael, which will be directed by Antoine Fuqua, who shared the news on Instagram.
Graham King, a seasoned hand at biopics with the Oscar-winning Queen film Bohemian Rhapsody under his belt, is producing along with John Branca and John McClain, who are the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate. John Logan, who penned Gladiator and The Aviator, wrote the script.
Jackson, who won 13 Grammys and rose from child stardom in the Jackson 5 become the biggest pop star in the world, died in 2009 at age 50.
According to Lionsgate, the film will address all aspects of Jackson’s life, though it is unclear how it will address the many controversies involving the late music icon, given that the biopic is being made in conjunction with his estate, which...
Graham King, a seasoned hand at biopics with the Oscar-winning Queen film Bohemian Rhapsody under his belt, is producing along with John Branca and John McClain, who are the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate. John Logan, who penned Gladiator and The Aviator, wrote the script.
Jackson, who won 13 Grammys and rose from child stardom in the Jackson 5 become the biggest pop star in the world, died in 2009 at age 50.
According to Lionsgate, the film will address all aspects of Jackson’s life, though it is unclear how it will address the many controversies involving the late music icon, given that the biopic is being made in conjunction with his estate, which...
- 1/30/2023
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Michael Jackson’s 26-year-old nephew, Jaafar Jackson, has been tapped to play his famous uncle in Antoine Fuqua’s upcoming biopic about the King of Pop, “Michael,” Lionsgate announced Monday.
“Jaafar embodies my son. It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers,” Katherine Jackson said.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Antoine Fuqua (@antoinefuqua)
“I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away by the way he organically personifies the spirit and personality of Michael,” the film’s producer Graham King said. “It was something so powerful that even after conducting a worldwide search, it was clear that he is the only person to take on this role. I am beyond thrilled that he has come on board to portray his uncle and cannot wait for the world to see him on the big screen as Michael Jackson.
“Jaafar embodies my son. It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers,” Katherine Jackson said.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Antoine Fuqua (@antoinefuqua)
“I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away by the way he organically personifies the spirit and personality of Michael,” the film’s producer Graham King said. “It was something so powerful that even after conducting a worldwide search, it was clear that he is the only person to take on this role. I am beyond thrilled that he has come on board to portray his uncle and cannot wait for the world to see him on the big screen as Michael Jackson.
- 1/30/2023
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Michael Jackson will be played by the late icon’s 26-year old nephew Jaafar Jackson in the Antoine Fuqua-directed film biopic for Lionsgate. Fuqua just posted a confirmation on Instagram. The singer and songwriter is the son of Jermaine Jackson, who is the brother of Michael and member of The Jackson 5. Jaafar has been singing and dancing since age 12, and has showcased himself singing tunes from Sam Cooke to Marvin Gaye, along with originals.
As Deadline revealed last week, the Emancipation helmer signed on to next direct Michael, which has a script by John Logan. The film’s being produced by Graham King, who turned the Freddie Mercury Queen story into the blockbuster Bohemian Rhapsody. Gk Films will produce alongside the co-executors of Jackson’s estate, John Branca and John McClain.
As you can see from the video below, the young man has the voice and moves to do right by his uncle.
As Deadline revealed last week, the Emancipation helmer signed on to next direct Michael, which has a script by John Logan. The film’s being produced by Graham King, who turned the Freddie Mercury Queen story into the blockbuster Bohemian Rhapsody. Gk Films will produce alongside the co-executors of Jackson’s estate, John Branca and John McClain.
As you can see from the video below, the young man has the voice and moves to do right by his uncle.
- 1/30/2023
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Updated: Amazon Studios has tapped Phoebe Waller-Bridge to write a TV series as part of a potential Tomb Raider universe that would span television, film and games. According to sources, the TV series is in the works from the prolific Waller-Bridge, creator of Fleabag and Killing Eve and writer on No Time To Die and Solo: A Star Wars Story, and she also could be involved in the potential movie. Dmitri Johnson from dj2, who had secured the rights to the IP, is overseeing the development of the franchise and producing.
The projects are part of a Tomb Raider multi-platform universe Amazon has been putting together, which also includes games; Amazon Games and Crystal Dynamics announced a couple of weeks ago an agreement to develop a new Tomb Raider single-player game.
It is an approach Amazon has been taking more and more often. Amazon Studios last month acquired global rights...
The projects are part of a Tomb Raider multi-platform universe Amazon has been putting together, which also includes games; Amazon Games and Crystal Dynamics announced a couple of weeks ago an agreement to develop a new Tomb Raider single-player game.
It is an approach Amazon has been taking more and more often. Amazon Studios last month acquired global rights...
- 1/28/2023
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
‘Emancipation’ filmmaker, Antoine Fuqua has been set to helm the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, ‘Michael’ for Lionsgate.
The film is said to be going to explore all aspects of Michael’s life, including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.
‘Skyfall,’ ‘The Aviator’ and ‘Gladiator’ scribe John Logan will write the story, which promises a “never-before-told and in-depth portrayal of the complicated man who became the King of Pop.”
Also in news – BAFTA Ee Rising Star nominees 2023 announced
Joe Drake, chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group says: “Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen Michael as his next project. His visionary storytelling skills and commitment to his craft will make Michael an unforgettable film.”
Graham King will produce the film alongside John Branca and John McClain who are co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate.
The film is said to be going to explore all aspects of Michael’s life, including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.
‘Skyfall,’ ‘The Aviator’ and ‘Gladiator’ scribe John Logan will write the story, which promises a “never-before-told and in-depth portrayal of the complicated man who became the King of Pop.”
Also in news – BAFTA Ee Rising Star nominees 2023 announced
Joe Drake, chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group says: “Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen Michael as his next project. His visionary storytelling skills and commitment to his craft will make Michael an unforgettable film.”
Graham King will produce the film alongside John Branca and John McClain who are co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate.
- 1/19/2023
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Director Antoine Fuqua will helm the upcoming biopic film, ‘Michael’, based on the life of Michael Jackson from Lionsgate.
Set to begin principal photography in 2023, the movie will be produced by Graham King, Oscar-winner for ‘The Departed’ (2006), and three-time nominee for ‘The Aviator’ (2004), ‘Hugo’ (2011) and ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ (2018), which won four Oscars including best actor for Rami Malek as Freddie Mercury, reports ‘Variety’.
Written by ‘Skyfall’ scribe John Logan, ‘Michael’ is said to give audiences the never-before-told and in-depth portrayal of the Grammy-winning singer who became the King of Pop.
The film will explore all aspects of Michael’s life, including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.
“Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen Michael as his next project. His visionary storytelling skills and commitment to his craft will make Michael an unforgettable film,...
Set to begin principal photography in 2023, the movie will be produced by Graham King, Oscar-winner for ‘The Departed’ (2006), and three-time nominee for ‘The Aviator’ (2004), ‘Hugo’ (2011) and ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ (2018), which won four Oscars including best actor for Rami Malek as Freddie Mercury, reports ‘Variety’.
Written by ‘Skyfall’ scribe John Logan, ‘Michael’ is said to give audiences the never-before-told and in-depth portrayal of the Grammy-winning singer who became the King of Pop.
The film will explore all aspects of Michael’s life, including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.
“Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen Michael as his next project. His visionary storytelling skills and commitment to his craft will make Michael an unforgettable film,...
- 1/19/2023
- by News Bureau
- GlamSham
Acclaimed director Antoine Fuqua has been tapped to helm Lionsgate's highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic. Fuqua rose to prominence in 2001 with the gritty crime thriller Training Day. which starred Denzel Washington as a crooked cop and earned him his first Academy Award for Best Actor. Since then, Fuqua has continued to find success in the director's chair with other gritty films such as Brooklyn's Finest, Southpaw, and the Equalizer trilogy. His most recent project, Emancipation starring Will Smith, was released in December 2022 through Apple.
Fuqua's next project will be the Michael Jackson biopic (currently using the working title Michael), as confirmed by Lionsgate. It is set to begin filming this year. The film will be produced by Graham King, who has worked on such critically acclaimed films as Argo, other successful biopics Ali and Bohemian Rhapsody, and The Departed, for which he won an Academy Award. Also working as...
Fuqua's next project will be the Michael Jackson biopic (currently using the working title Michael), as confirmed by Lionsgate. It is set to begin filming this year. The film will be produced by Graham King, who has worked on such critically acclaimed films as Argo, other successful biopics Ali and Bohemian Rhapsody, and The Departed, for which he won an Academy Award. Also working as...
- 1/18/2023
- by Alex Murray
- ScreenRant.com
Production to commence this year; studio holds worldwide rights.
Lionsgate has hired Antoine Fuqua to direct its Michael Jackson biopic Michael produced by Graham King and said principal photography will commence this year.
John Logan, who collaborated with King on Martin Scorsese’s The Aviator, wrote the screenplay to what the studio said will present an unprecedented portrait of the “complicated man who became the King of Pop”.
Michael will explore all aspects of the late Jackson’s life, including his most iconic performances from his time with The Jackson 5 through his world-renowned solo career as the biggest selling artist of all time.
Lionsgate has hired Antoine Fuqua to direct its Michael Jackson biopic Michael produced by Graham King and said principal photography will commence this year.
John Logan, who collaborated with King on Martin Scorsese’s The Aviator, wrote the screenplay to what the studio said will present an unprecedented portrait of the “complicated man who became the King of Pop”.
Michael will explore all aspects of the late Jackson’s life, including his most iconic performances from his time with The Jackson 5 through his world-renowned solo career as the biggest selling artist of all time.
- 1/18/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Lionsgate announced today, Jan. 18, that acclaimed director Antoine Fuqua would be directing the King of Pop’s biopic!
The pop legend’s biopic, aptly titled “Michael,” will also be produced by Graham King, the mind behind the Queen biopic “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
Fuqua’s directorial resume so far boasts “Training Day,” “Emancipation,” and “The Equalizer” franchise.
Read More: Michael Jackson’s Estate ‘Saddened By The Sudden Tragic Loss’ Of Lisa Marie Presley
Joe Drake, the chairman of Lionsgate, complimented Antoine for his “powerful” filmmaking during the announcement on Wednesday.
“Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen “Michael“ as his next project. His visionary storytelling skills and commitment to his craft will make “Michael” an unforgettable film.”
“Michael” aims to give a never-before-told, highly in-depth portrayal of the highly controversial man who eventually earned the crown of King of Pop.
Read More: Akon...
The pop legend’s biopic, aptly titled “Michael,” will also be produced by Graham King, the mind behind the Queen biopic “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
Fuqua’s directorial resume so far boasts “Training Day,” “Emancipation,” and “The Equalizer” franchise.
Read More: Michael Jackson’s Estate ‘Saddened By The Sudden Tragic Loss’ Of Lisa Marie Presley
Joe Drake, the chairman of Lionsgate, complimented Antoine for his “powerful” filmmaking during the announcement on Wednesday.
“Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen “Michael“ as his next project. His visionary storytelling skills and commitment to his craft will make “Michael” an unforgettable film.”
“Michael” aims to give a never-before-told, highly in-depth portrayal of the highly controversial man who eventually earned the crown of King of Pop.
Read More: Akon...
- 1/18/2023
- by Emerson Pearson
- ET Canada
Antoine Fuqua is taking on the King of Pop.
The “Training Day” and “Emancipation” director is set to helm upcoming Michael Jackson biopic “Michael,” IndieWire can confirm. Produced by Graham King (“Bohemian Rhapsody”), the film is set to give audiences the never-before-told and in-depth portrayal of the complicated Jackson 5 member and solo artist. The film will explore all aspects of Michael’s life, including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.
“Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen Michael as his next project. His visionary storytelling skills and commitment to his craft will make Michael an unforgettable film,” Joe Drake, Chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, said of director Fuqua.
“Southpaw” director Fuqua stated, “The first films of my career were music videos, and I still feel that combining film and music are...
The “Training Day” and “Emancipation” director is set to helm upcoming Michael Jackson biopic “Michael,” IndieWire can confirm. Produced by Graham King (“Bohemian Rhapsody”), the film is set to give audiences the never-before-told and in-depth portrayal of the complicated Jackson 5 member and solo artist. The film will explore all aspects of Michael’s life, including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.
“Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen Michael as his next project. His visionary storytelling skills and commitment to his craft will make Michael an unforgettable film,” Joe Drake, Chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, said of director Fuqua.
“Southpaw” director Fuqua stated, “The first films of my career were music videos, and I still feel that combining film and music are...
- 1/18/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Given the chaos around his most recent film, the Will Smith slavery drama Emancipation (with Smith slapping Chris Rock on the Oscars stage last year), you might have imagined that director Antoine Fuqua would opt for something without the chance of controversy for a future film. But no, he's boarded a Michael Jackson biopic, currently simply titled Michael.
Writer John Logan and producer Graham King have been trying to get this one together for years now, aiming to chart Jackson's rise to fame, his troubled family life, his musical superstardom, but not ignoring his chaotic personal life, plastic surgery and the pedophile accusations that dogged his later years up to his death in 2009 at age 50, from cardiac arrest caused by a cocktail of sedatives.
"The first films of my career were music videos, and I still feel that combining film and music are a deep part of who I am,...
Writer John Logan and producer Graham King have been trying to get this one together for years now, aiming to chart Jackson's rise to fame, his troubled family life, his musical superstardom, but not ignoring his chaotic personal life, plastic surgery and the pedophile accusations that dogged his later years up to his death in 2009 at age 50, from cardiac arrest caused by a cocktail of sedatives.
"The first films of my career were music videos, and I still feel that combining film and music are a deep part of who I am,...
- 1/18/2023
- by James White
- Empire - Movies
The turbulent life story of the King of Pop is coming to the big screen, courtesy of director Antoine Fuqua. Michael, a long-in-the-works biopic of Michael Jackson, will begin production this year at Lionsgate. Coming off the success of the Queen biopic Bohemian Rhapsody, producer Graham King will produce Michael, which promises to depict every aspect of Jackson's troubled life, which ended prematurely at age 50 in 2009.
- 1/18/2023
- by Rob London
- Collider.com
Hey, remember back in 2019 when we revealed that a Michael Jackson biopic was in the works? As it turns out, the project is far from abandoned like you might have thought after four years of silence. Lionsgate has announced that the film, simply titled "Michael," will be headed up by "Southpaw" director Antoine Fuqua. Deadline broke the news of the film, saying that Fuqua will start filming the project after production wraps on "The Equalizer 3." However, The Hollywood Reporter received a statement from the director expressing his excitement for the upcoming project.
"For me, there is no artist with the power, the charisma, and the sheer musical genius of Michael Jackson," he wrote. "His music and those images are part of my worldview, and the chance to tell his story on the screen alongside his music was irresistible."
Graham King, who was previously announced as part of the project...
"For me, there is no artist with the power, the charisma, and the sheer musical genius of Michael Jackson," he wrote. "His music and those images are part of my worldview, and the chance to tell his story on the screen alongside his music was irresistible."
Graham King, who was previously announced as part of the project...
- 1/18/2023
- by Erin Brady
- Slash Film
Lionsgate is about to be “startin’ something,” as the studio has tapped Antoine Fuqua to direct its Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, a project that will reportedly see the filmmaker reunite with his Emancipation Cinematographer Robert Richardson, who has won three Oscars for his work on JFK, The Aviator, and Hugo. Three-time Oscar nominee John Logan wrote the script, and the film will be produced by Graham King of Gk Films, [...]...
- 1/18/2023
- by Jeff Sneider
- Below the Line - Voice of the Crew
The previously-announced Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, will begin production this year with filmmaker Antoine Fuqua attached to direct, Variety reports.
In a statement, Fuqua spoke about taking on the project and his deep love for “combining film and music,” considering some of the first films he made were music videos. He also touched on the incredible influence Jackson had on him.
“For me, there is no artist with the power, the charisma, and the sheer musical genius of Michael Jackson,” Fuqua said. “I was influenced to make music videos by...
In a statement, Fuqua spoke about taking on the project and his deep love for “combining film and music,” considering some of the first films he made were music videos. He also touched on the incredible influence Jackson had on him.
“For me, there is no artist with the power, the charisma, and the sheer musical genius of Michael Jackson,” Fuqua said. “I was influenced to make music videos by...
- 1/18/2023
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Michael Jackson Biopic: Antoine Fuqua to direct a film about the complicated life of the King of Pop
Lionsgate is proud to announce Antoine Fuqua will direct the highly-anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, Michael. Academy Award-winning producer Graham King (Bohemian Rhapsody) joins the project, with principal photography lined up for 2023. Three-time Oscar nominee John Logan will write the screenplay for Michael, co-executive produced by the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca, and John McClain.
According to the project’s official press release, Michael “will give audiences the never-before-told and in-depth portrayal of the complicated man who became the King of Pop. The film will explore all aspects of Michael’s life, including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.”
“Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen Michael as his next project,” Drake said. “His visionary storytelling skills and commitment to his craft will make Michael an unforgettable film.”
“The first films of my career were music videos,...
According to the project’s official press release, Michael “will give audiences the never-before-told and in-depth portrayal of the complicated man who became the King of Pop. The film will explore all aspects of Michael’s life, including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.”
“Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen Michael as his next project,” Drake said. “His visionary storytelling skills and commitment to his craft will make Michael an unforgettable film.”
“The first films of my career were music videos,...
- 1/18/2023
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Director Antoine Fuqua will helm the upcoming biopic film, “Michael,” based on the life of Michael Jackson from Lionsgate, which will distribute the film worldwide.
Set to begin principal photography in 2023, the movie will be produced by Graham King, Oscar-winner for “The Departed” (2006), and three-time nominee for “The Aviator” (2004), “Hugo” (2011) and “Bohemian Rhapsody” (2018), which won four Oscars including best actor for Rami Malek as Freddie Mercury.
Written by “Skyfall” scribe John Logan, “Michael” is said to give audiences the never-before-told and in-depth portrayal of the Grammy-winning singer who became the King of Pop. The film will explore all aspects of Michael’s life, including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time. Logan has assembled three Oscar noms for “Gladiator” (2000), “The Aviator” and “Hugo.”
“Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen Michael as his next project.
Set to begin principal photography in 2023, the movie will be produced by Graham King, Oscar-winner for “The Departed” (2006), and three-time nominee for “The Aviator” (2004), “Hugo” (2011) and “Bohemian Rhapsody” (2018), which won four Oscars including best actor for Rami Malek as Freddie Mercury.
Written by “Skyfall” scribe John Logan, “Michael” is said to give audiences the never-before-told and in-depth portrayal of the Grammy-winning singer who became the King of Pop. The film will explore all aspects of Michael’s life, including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time. Logan has assembled three Oscar noms for “Gladiator” (2000), “The Aviator” and “Hugo.”
“Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen Michael as his next project.
- 1/18/2023
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Antoine Fuqua, the man who directed such films as “The Equalizer,” “Shooter,” “The Magnificent Seven” and “Emancipation,” has been tapped by Lionsgate to helm their upcoming Michael Jackson biopic.
The film, entitled “Michael,” will be produced by Graham King (producer of the 911 million-grossing and Oscar-winning “Bohemian Rhapsody”) and penned by John Logan. King will co-produce the film alongside John Branca and John McClain, the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate.
Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chair Joe Drake said: “I am very excited that Lionsgate will be part of this epic film, and thrilled to be working with Graham, who has proven success in telling iconic life stories, from ‘”Bohemian Rhapsody” to “Ali;” when combined with John, we couldn’t be in more extraordinary hands.”
Also Read:
‘Emancipation’ Review: Will Smith Slavery Saga Challenges Audiences With Grueling Cruelty
Added King: “I first met the Jackson family in 1981 and I’m humbled...
The film, entitled “Michael,” will be produced by Graham King (producer of the 911 million-grossing and Oscar-winning “Bohemian Rhapsody”) and penned by John Logan. King will co-produce the film alongside John Branca and John McClain, the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate.
Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chair Joe Drake said: “I am very excited that Lionsgate will be part of this epic film, and thrilled to be working with Graham, who has proven success in telling iconic life stories, from ‘”Bohemian Rhapsody” to “Ali;” when combined with John, we couldn’t be in more extraordinary hands.”
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‘Emancipation’ Review: Will Smith Slavery Saga Challenges Audiences With Grueling Cruelty
Added King: “I first met the Jackson family in 1981 and I’m humbled...
- 1/18/2023
- by Scott Mendelson
- The Wrap
Michael Jackson is getting the biopic treatment. Lionsgate and director Antoine Fuqua are taking on the filmmaker’s life in a film titled Michael, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed.
Graham King, a seasoned hand at biopics with the Oscar-winning Queen film Bohemian Rhapsody under his belt, is producing along with John Branca and John McClain, who are the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate. John Logan, who penned Gladiator and The Aviator, wrote the script.
“The first films of my career were music videos, and I still feel that combining film and music are a deep part of who I am,” said Fuqua in a statement. “For me, there is no artist with the power, the charisma, and the sheer musical genius of Michael Jackson. I was influenced to make music videos by watching his work – the first Black artist to play in heavy rotation on MTV. His music and...
Graham King, a seasoned hand at biopics with the Oscar-winning Queen film Bohemian Rhapsody under his belt, is producing along with John Branca and John McClain, who are the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate. John Logan, who penned Gladiator and The Aviator, wrote the script.
“The first films of my career were music videos, and I still feel that combining film and music are a deep part of who I am,” said Fuqua in a statement. “For me, there is no artist with the power, the charisma, and the sheer musical genius of Michael Jackson. I was influenced to make music videos by watching his work – the first Black artist to play in heavy rotation on MTV. His music and...
- 1/18/2023
- by Aaron Couch
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Antoine Fuqua is set to direct Michael, a Lionsgate drama telling the complex life story of the iconic singer Michael Jackson. A script is in by John Logan, and the film will be produced by Graham King, who turned the Freddie Mercury Queen story into the blockbuster Oscar Best Picture-nominated Bohemian Rhapsody. Gk Films will produce alongside the co-executors of Jackson’s estate, John Branca and John McClain.
Turning Mercury’s complicated rise, fall and triumphant comeback into a film that won Best Actor for Rami Malek might have been an easier task than the moonwalking over landmines that will have to be done with Jackson’s story. Anyone who has seen the job that Fuqua did on the Will Smith-starrer Emancipation might come away believing he hit a high-water mark as a filmmaker because of his unflinching telling of an often brutal story of the escaped enslaved man Joseph.
Turning Mercury’s complicated rise, fall and triumphant comeback into a film that won Best Actor for Rami Malek might have been an easier task than the moonwalking over landmines that will have to be done with Jackson’s story. Anyone who has seen the job that Fuqua did on the Will Smith-starrer Emancipation might come away believing he hit a high-water mark as a filmmaker because of his unflinching telling of an often brutal story of the escaped enslaved man Joseph.
- 1/18/2023
- by Justin Kroll and Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Amazon has struck a deal with Crystal Dynamics, a San Mateo, California–based game developer, to publish a new video game based on the Tomb Raider franchise, the companies said on Thursday.
The currently untitled game is in early development and does not yet have a release date. The latest installment, set to be a multi-platform single-player narrative adventure, will include exploration, puzzle solving and combative interactions with enemies.
The Tomb Raider game will be published after MGM, acquired by Amazon earlier this year for 8.5 billion, lost the film rights to the Tomb Raider franchise earlier this summer. A planned sequel with returning star Alicia Vikander was also scrapped at the time and the film rights have since returned to the producer Graham King and his Gk Films.
It’s not immediately clear what Amazon’s next plans may be for film versions of Tomb Raider,...
Amazon has struck a deal with Crystal Dynamics, a San Mateo, California–based game developer, to publish a new video game based on the Tomb Raider franchise, the companies said on Thursday.
The currently untitled game is in early development and does not yet have a release date. The latest installment, set to be a multi-platform single-player narrative adventure, will include exploration, puzzle solving and combative interactions with enemies.
The Tomb Raider game will be published after MGM, acquired by Amazon earlier this year for 8.5 billion, lost the film rights to the Tomb Raider franchise earlier this summer. A planned sequel with returning star Alicia Vikander was also scrapped at the time and the film rights have since returned to the producer Graham King and his Gk Films.
It’s not immediately clear what Amazon’s next plans may be for film versions of Tomb Raider,...
- 12/15/2022
- by J. Clara Chan
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“Hustlers” director Lorene Scafaria has been tapped to direct Paramount’s “Bee Gees” film, TheWrap has confirmed. She replaces John Carney, who exited the project due to a scheduling conflict.
In March of this year, “Sing Street” filmmaker Carney stepped in for Kenneth Branagh, who was originally attached when the project was announced in March 2021.
Oscar-nominee John Logan wrote the latest draft of the script. He also signed on to the project in 2021, taking over from screenwriter Ben Elton.
The Bee Gees’ Barry Gibb will executive produce the still-untitled film about his band with late brothers Maurice and Robin. One of the most commercially successful music groups of all time, they rose to fame in the late ’60s and exploded with “Stayin’ Alive” in the ’70s.
Also Read:
John Carney to Direct Paramount’s Bee Gees Biopic
The trio was the subject of the 2020 HBO documentary “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart,...
In March of this year, “Sing Street” filmmaker Carney stepped in for Kenneth Branagh, who was originally attached when the project was announced in March 2021.
Oscar-nominee John Logan wrote the latest draft of the script. He also signed on to the project in 2021, taking over from screenwriter Ben Elton.
The Bee Gees’ Barry Gibb will executive produce the still-untitled film about his band with late brothers Maurice and Robin. One of the most commercially successful music groups of all time, they rose to fame in the late ’60s and exploded with “Stayin’ Alive” in the ’70s.
Also Read:
John Carney to Direct Paramount’s Bee Gees Biopic
The trio was the subject of the 2020 HBO documentary “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart,...
- 12/9/2022
- by Harper Lambert
- The Wrap
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