Biopics such as Selena (1997), Straight Outta Compton (2015), and Bohemian Rhapsody (2018) have told the stories of some of the world’s most talented musicians. In 2024, the production of a new biopic titled Michael, based on the life of Michael Jackson, was announced. Established director Antoine Fuqua (The Equalizer, Training Day) is at the helm, who has also directed a range of music videos for Coolio, Stevie Wonder, and Prince.
The highly anticipated film already boasts an all-star cast including Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Kat Graham as Diana Ross, and Miles Teller as John Branca. Notably, the role of Michael Jackson was given to his own nephew, Jaafar Jackson. Image via Yahoo!
The Michael Jackson Biopic: Cast and Plot
The Jackson family and friends of Jackson are iconic in the music industry, and a biopic depicting them requires careful casting and approach to storytelling. The various casting choices are impressive, with the actors bringing unique experiences to their respective roles.
Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson
Beyond Jaafar Jackson’s familial connection and resemblance to Michael Jackson, Jackson’s own musical talent makes him a compelling choice to portray his uncle on screen. With his intimate understanding of Michael’s legacy and artistic vision, Jaafar can bring authenticity and depth to the role, capturing the essence of the legendary entertainer. Note the resemblance in a photo from the set! Image via Yahoo!
Colman Domingo, Joe Jackson
Domingo starred in The Color Purple, Euphoria, Candyman, If Beale Street Could Talk, and the Martin Luther King Jr. biopic, Selma. Domingo. With his nuanced performances, Domingo can embody the multi-dimensional aspects of Joe Jackson’s personality, including his ambition, determination, and controversial methods of managing his children’s careers. Image via IMDB.
Nia Long, Katherine Jackson
Long is known for her roles in both film and television, including NCIS: Los Angeles, You People, and Empire. With her ability to convey both strength and vulnerability, Long can capture the complexities of Katherine’s character, from her unwavering support of her family to her resilience in the face of adversity. Image via Yahoo!
Kat Graham, Diana Ross
Kat Graham of The Vampire Diaries and recent Netflix romantic comedy Love in the Villa has been cast as the iconic songstress Diana Ross. With her striking resemblance to Ross, as well as her dynamic stage presence, Graham can embody Ross’s legendary grace, style, and vocal prowess. Image via Runner’s World.
Miles Teller, John Branca
Miles Teller’s versatility as an actor makes him a fitting choice to play John Branca, Michael Jackson’s attorney. With experience playing the famous producer of The Godfather, Albert S. Ruddy, in The Offer, Teller can effectively convey Branca’s strategic mindset and legal acumen. Image via The Sun.
Additional (announced) cast members include Jessica Sula (Skins, Panic) as La Toya Jackson, Kendrick Sampson (Insecure, How to Get Away With Murder) as Quincy Jones, and Liv Symone (Diarra from Detroit) as Gladys Knight.
Biopics Based on Musicians
Biopics based on musicians offer audiences a glimpse into the extraordinary lives and legacies of musical icons like Michae Jackson. Through vibrant performances and memorable soundtracks, these films celebrate the passion, struggles, and triumphs of artists. While cinephiles wait for the Michael biopic, here are a few of the best biopics based on musicians.
- La Vie en Rose (2007): Directed by Olivier Dahan (Grace of Monaco, Simone: Woman of the Century), this French biographical film depicts the life of iconic French singer Édith Piaf. Marion Cotillard (The Inventor, Lee) played Pilaf and won the 2008 Winner Oscar for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role.
- Selena (1997): Directed by Gregory Nava (Frida, Bordertown), Selena is a famous biopic that celebrates the life of Tejano music sensation Selena Quintanilla-Pérez. The film was Jennifer Lopez’s career-defining role, with many citing the close resemblance to the late singer.
- I’m Not There (2007): Todd Haynes, who recently directed May December, also directed I’m Not There, the unconventional biopic that explored the life and music of Bob Dylan. The film explored Dylan’s life through various characters and actors, including Cate Blanchett, Heath Ledger, and Christian Bale.
- Toni Braxton: Unbreak My Heart (2016): Adapted from Toni Braxton’s memoir Unbreak My Heart and inspired by her chart-topping song, this biopic features NYFA alum Lex Scott Davis portraying the iconic singer. Directed by Vondie Curtis Hall (Glitter), the film delves into Braxton’s life, offering a raw and intimate portrayal.
- Get on Up (2014): Directed by Tate Taylor (Ma, Breaking News in Yuba County), Get on Up (2014) chronicles the life of influential soul singer James Brown, starring the late Chadwick Boseman in the lead role.
- Bob Marley: One Love (2024): Bob Marley: One Love, hitting theaters on February 14, 2024, is a cinematic celebration of the reggae legend’s life. Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green (King Richard), the film stars Kingsley Ben-Adir as Bob Marley and Lashana Lynch as his wife, Rita. NYFA Filmmaking camp alum Michael Gandolfini stars in the film as Howard Bloom.
- Straight Outta Compton (2015): Directed by F. Gary Gray (The Italian Job, Friday), this biographical drama depicts the rise of the rap group N.W.A. and its members, including Eazy-E (Jason Mitchell), Ice Cube (O’Shea Jackson Jr.), and Dr. Dre (Corey Hawkins).
- Rocketman (2019): Dexter Fletcher (The Offer) directed this biographical musical film that explores the life and music of British musician Elton John, with Taron Egerton in the role of Elton John.
- Ray (2004): Directed by Taylor Hackford (An Officer and a Gentleman), this film depicts the life and career of legendary musician Ray Charles, starring Jamie Foxx in the titular role. The Oscar-award-winning film also features Regina Hall and Kerry Washington.
- Walk the Line (2005): James Mangold of Ford v. Ferrari and Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny directed the Oscar-winning Walk the Line biopic following the life of country music icon Johnny Cash. The film stars Joaquin Phoenix as Cash and Reese Witherspoon as June Carter.
- Elvis (2022): Austin Butler, honored with a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Drama for his portrayal of Elvis, skillfully embodied the legacy of the renowned singer. Shot in Gold Coast, Australia, many NYFA Australia students worked on the film.
- Bohemian Rhapsody (2018): Directed by Bryan Singer and Dexter Fletcher, this film chronicles the rise of the iconic rock band Queen, focusing on lead singer Freddie Mercury, portrayed by Rami Malek.
Bring Characters to Life at NYFA
Ready to step into the shoes of an iconic singer or create a story of your own? Learn more about making your own film or developing skills in acting and performance in one of NYFA’s hands-on programs!