Colman Domingo undergoes a remarkable transformation to portray Joe Jackson in the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic. The new trailer, released on February 2, offers viewers insight into the complex relationship between Michael Jackson and his father, highlighting the pressures that shaped the King of Pop’s early life. The film focuses on the influence Joe Jackson had on Michael’s career and personal growth, with Domingo’s portrayal bringing the patriarch’s strict and determined character to life.
Exploring Joe Jackson’s Ambition for the Jackson Family
In the trailer, Joe Jackson, played by 56-year-old Colman Domingo, delivers a firm message about ambition and effort.
“In this life, you’re either a winner or you’re a loser. Y’all want to work in the steel mill like me for the rest of your days because I sure as hell don’t. Y’all willing to fight for it?”
Joe demands, underscoring his drive to see his family succeed beyond their modest beginnings. Though Joe passed away in June 2018 at age 89, his determination to propel the Jackson family forward, especially through the Jackson 5, is a central theme of the film.
Joe’s Focus on Michael’s Success as a Global Icon
The film also highlights Joe Jackson’s vision for the family as a brand, putting emphasis on Michael’s growing stardom.
“We need to capitalize on Michael’s success, because the Jackson family is the brand,”
Joe states.
“That’s our Coca-Cola. I’m planning an international tour. This is just the beginning.”
These words reveal Joe’s strategic mindset in developing Michael’s career and the family’s legacy on a worldwide scale.
Michael’s Perspective on Fame and Personal Expression
The biopic delves into Michael Jackson’s inner thoughts as he rises to global fame while wrestling with pressures to meet expectations. Michael, portrayed by Jaafar Jackson, offers an inspiring affirmation:
“You are confident. You are strong. You are beautiful. You’re the greatest of all time.”
This self-encouragement signals Michael’s desire to maintain positivity despite challenges in the entertainment industry.
However, Michael’s ambitions extend beyond fame.
“I love my family, but I just want to do my own thing,”
he confides.
“I just have all of these ideas in my head. I just got to get them out. I believe music can change the world. Spread love, joy and peace. That is what I want the world to feel.”
This reveals his longing to use music as a force for global good, beyond commercial success.
Introducing Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson’s Portrayer
Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, makes his feature film debut as the pop icon. The story follows Michael’s ascent to superstardom, especially emphasizing the impact of his “Thriller” album, which established him as the world’s most famous artist. Michael Jackson’s life, including his untimely death in June 2009 at age 50, serves as the biopic’s focus.
Family Reactions and Controversies Surrounding the Film
Despite excitement for the project, some of Michael’s closest relatives have expressed reservations. After Colman Domingo mentioned that Paris Jackson had been “very helpful” during the film’s production, Michael’s daughter publicly denied involvement. Paris wrote on her Instagram Story in September 2025,
“@Kingofbingo don’t be telling people I was helpful on the set of a movie I had 0% involvement in lol that is so weird.”
She added,
“I read one of the first drafts of the script and gave my thoughts on what was dishonest/didn’t sit right with me and when they didn’t address it, I moved on with my life. Not my monkeys not my circus. God bless and god speed.”
Colman Domingo’s Intentions Behind the Portrayal
Domingo has discussed the purpose of the film in a 2024 interview with Andy Cohen, explaining that the biopic aims to portray Michael Jackson as a multifaceted person rather than just a celebrity figure.
“I think the whole point of this biopic is to really humanize Michael and really show the making of Michael and who he is, and so it deals with a lot of things,”
Domingo said.
“A lot of things that may even be controversial, you know what I mean? So, it deals with it, and it’s got the family love and support, but they didn’t get in the way of really telling a compelling story. We really show how this family built themselves, how they relate to each other and to the world and what the world has also created.”
Release Date and Anticipated Impact of the Michael Jackson Biopic
The film is set to premiere in theaters and IMAX on April 24, 2026. Given the intense emotions tied to Michael Jackson’s legacy, the movie is expected to generate discussion about the challenges of fame, family dynamics, and the cultural influence of his music. By focusing on both Joe Jackson’s role and Michael’s personal journey, the biopic may offer a nuanced perspective that deepens public understanding of the iconic artist’s life.
