Miles Teller, the actor cast as John Branca in the upcoming Miles Teller Michael Jackson Biopic, underwent a strikingly unrecognizable transformation. The first trailer was released on Thursday, November 6, giving fans an early look at Teller’s portrayal of Jackson’s longtime lawyer and confidant.
In the footage, Teller appears with a prosthetic nose and wears a long wig styled with shoulder-length shaggy hair. His hair is parted in the middle, featuring baby bangs that frame his forehead. He is dressed in a classic black blazer paired with a crisp white dress shirt, reflecting Branca’s professional appearance.
Fan Reactions to Teller’s Look as John Branca
Fans shared mixed responses to Teller’s new appearance on social media platform X. Some commenters were shocked by his drastic change, while others praised the actor’s portrayal. One user remarked,
Crazy how I almost didn’t recognize him for a second.
Another said,
Even in that awful wig I still would,
and yet another expressed,
I gotta say, he looks fantastic.
On the other hand, a critical voice compared his look unfavorably, stating, He looks like Rat Boy. Despite the divided opinions, several followers agreed that Teller’s performance was impressive despite the unusual wig and makeup.
John Branca’s Relationship with Michael Jackson
Miles Teller portrays John Branca, now 74, who maintained a close professional and personal connection with Michael Jackson until the singer’s death in 2009. Branca served as Jackson’s lawyer and was intimately involved in managing his career. Their bond was so strong that Jackson acted as best man at Branca’s wedding. After Jackson passed away at age 50, Branca was appointed co-executor of the entertainer’s estate and continues to manage it today.
The two experienced a complicated working relationship. Branca was briefly dismissed in 1990 due to concerns about his dealings with other artists, but they reconciled in 1993. Branca resigned in 2006, feeling Jackson was being misadvised, yet they repaired their friendship before Jackson’s death.
Overview of the Biopic’s Narrative and Production
The official description of Michael states it will be
An in-depth portrayal of Michael Jackson, a complicated man, who became the King of Pop. The biopic will bring to life Jackson’s most iconic performances as it gives an informed insight into the entertainer’s artistic process and personal life.
Written by John Logan and produced by Graham King—who previously produced Bohemian Rhapsody—the film benefits from Branca’s close involvement alongside co-executor John McClain, both of whom helped bring the project to life. Their participation adds authenticity to the story behind Jackson’s legacy.
John Branca’s Perspective on the Film’s Approach
In a recent interview with the Financial Times, John Branca described the movie as not defensive at all and made clear its intentions. He stated,
We are not out to declare Michael’s innocence,
emphasizing the film’s focus on telling Jackson’s life story. Branca said,
The aim is to tell Michael’s story. What was his journey? Who was he?
He also criticized those who spread false narratives about Jackson, asserting,
Michael deserves to tell his own story, because you’ve all these creeps telling their story and it ain’t true.
Additional Cast and Release Information
The biopic features Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew and son of Jermaine Jackson, making his acting debut as the pop icon. Other notable cast members include Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, and Kat Graham as Diana Ross.
The film is scheduled to premiere in theaters on April 24, 2026, promising a detailed exploration of both Michael Jackson’s artistic achievements and his complicated personal life.
First look at Miles Teller as Michael Jackson’s attorney in the biopic ‘MICHAEL’ pic.twitter.com/z5GdanUyDf
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) November 6, 2025
