‘Michael’ dethrones ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ as top-grossing music biopic
'Michael' Dethrones 'Bohemian Rhapsody' as Top-Grossing Music Biopic
Michael dethrones Bohemian Rhapsody as top grossing - Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, has officially claimed the title of the highest-grossing music biopic at the box office. The film, titled *Michael*, which follows the life of the legendary artist, has broken the previous record held by 2018’s *Bohemian Rhapsody* and is now on track to surpass its $911 million global earnings. As of June 14, the movie has already amassed $932.2 million worldwide, with its box office momentum showing no signs of slowing down.
A Controversial Debut
The biopic, starring Jaafar Jackson, the singer’s nephew, has faced scrutiny since its release. Critics initially questioned its narrative choices, arguing that it glossed over the sexual abuse allegations against Jackson. The film focuses on his early career and personal relationship with his father, concluding in 1988—five years before the first accusations against him surfaced in 1993. This decision to omit key moments from his later life sparked debate among fans and historians, who felt it left an incomplete picture of the icon.
"The movie’s approach to Jackson’s story was criticized for downplaying the controversies that defined his later years," said one film analyst in a recent review.
Despite these critiques, the film’s box office performance has defied expectations. It opened with a staggering $97 million domestically in April, shattering the previous record for the biggest debut for a musical biopic. This surpassed *Straight Outta Compton*’s $60 million opening, proving that audiences were more interested in the visual spectacle and emotional resonance of the film than in its narrative omissions.
The Behind-the-Scenes Drama
Behind the scenes, the production of *Michael* was anything but smooth. Reports from Variety and Puck revealed significant reshoots were required after a legal agreement was overlooked, preventing Jordan Chandler, a 13-year-old boy allegedly abused by Jackson in 1993, from being portrayed in the film. This oversight added to the controversy, with some viewers questioning whether the movie was compromised by legal pressures.
"We had to rework key scenes to ensure the legal aspects were handled properly," explained a production executive during a press briefing.
Additionally, the film’s critical reception was mixed. While Jaafar Jackson’s performance was lauded for its authenticity and emotional depth, many reviews called the movie overly sanitized. Critics argued that it missed opportunities to delve into the darker aspects of Jackson’s life, focusing instead on his rise to fame and familial bonds. However, audiences seemed less concerned with these critiques, embracing the film for its charismatic storytelling and visual grandeur.
A Global Phenomenon
As of June 14, *Michael* has not only secured the title of top-grossing music biopic but also positioned itself as one of the most successful films of 2026. It currently ranks second globally, trailing only *The Super Mario Galaxy Movie* in the year’s box office charts. Notably, the film has outperformed recent blockbusters like *Project Hail Mary* and *The Devil Wears Prada 2*, as well as the latest *Star Wars* installment, *The Mandalorian and Grogu*.
North America’s contribution to the film’s success has been substantial, with a recent $4.1 million haul in ticket sales. Japan also proved to be a strong market, where *Michael* opened on June 12 with $6.7 million in revenue. These figures highlight the film’s broad appeal, spanning both major and niche markets.
The Road Ahead
The next challenge for *Michael* is whether it can cross the $1 billion mark globally, a feat never achieved by a music biopic before. Lionsgate, the studio behind the film, has confirmed plans for a sequel that will expand on Jackson’s life. The follow-up is expected to cover additional events, potentially addressing the child sexual abuse allegations that were excluded from the first film.
"There are so many untold stories in Michael’s life that we’re eager to explore in the next installment," said Adam Fogelson, Lionsgate Motion Picture chair, during an analyst call in May.
Fogelson hinted that the sequel could weave together different phases of Jackson’s career, allowing for a more comprehensive narrative. "The first film focused on the earlier chapters of his journey, but there’s still much to uncover," he added. "We can move forward and backward in time, giving audiences a fuller understanding of his legacy."
Jaafar Jackson, who portrayed his uncle in the lead role, has also expressed confidence in the film’s potential. "Michael’s story isn’t finished being told," he said in a recent interview. "We’re just getting started, and I’m excited to see how this unfolds."
Legacy and Impact
While some may view *Michael* as a compromise, its box office success underscores the enduring fascination with Jackson’s life. The film’s ability to transcend its controversies and capture the hearts of millions highlights the power of storytelling in the modern cinematic landscape. As the world watches its financial climb, the question remains: Can *Michael* set a new benchmark for biographical films?
With its triumph at the box office, *Michael* has not only redefined what a music biopic can achieve but also reignited discussions about how to balance historical accuracy with commercial appeal. As Lionsgate moves forward with the sequel, the legacy of Jackson’s life continues to evolve, proving that his story is far from over.