Jackson Family Defends Michael Jackson Biopic 'Michael' Amid Poor Critical Reception

Michael Jackson’s nephews have emerged as vocal supporters of Antoine Fuqua’s biopic “Michael”, which has faced widespread criticism from professional reviewers. The film, which chronicles the life of the late King of Pop, has reignited discussions about how his legacy should be represented on screen.

“I’m going to the theater in a few hours to see a movie I’ve seen several times. Why? Because I’m proud,” said TJ Jackson, son of The Jackson 5 member and Michael’s brother, Tito Jackson. “I wouldn’t miss this opportunity to be masked in the electrifying energy that will be in that theater for nothing. My uncle deserves this, my cousin earned this and his loyal supporters are owed this. The world will be reminded or learn who MJ truly was and I can’t wait!”

I’m going to the theater in a few hours to see a movie I’ve seen several times. Why? Because I’m proud. I wouldn’t miss this opportunity to be masked in the electrifying energy that will be in that theater for nothing. My uncle deserves this, my cousin earned this and his loyal supporters are owed this. The world will be reminded or learn who MJ truly was and I can’t wait!

TJ Jackson shared these remarks on X (formerly Twitter) on April 22, 2026, alongside a link to the film’s trailer.

The defense from the Jackson family follows the release of early reviews for “Michael”, which has been overwhelmingly negative. As of the latest update, the film holds a 35% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with just under two-thirds of 124 certified critics giving it an unfavorable review.

“Sorry media, u don’t get to control the narrative anymore of who Michael Jackson truly was,” said Taj Jackson, TJ’s brother, in a post on X on April 21, 2026. “The public gets to watch this movie…they will decide for themselves. And you can’t handle that.”

Sorry media, u don’t get to control the narrative anymore of who Michael Jackson truly was. The public gets to watch this movie…they will decide for themselves. And you can’t handle that.

The biopic, written by John Logan, has long been anticipated as a potential flashpoint due to its subject matter. Michael Jackson remains one of the most iconic and influential musicians in history, ensuring the film would attract a dedicated fanbase eager to see his story portrayed on screen. However, the movie has faced criticism for avoiding key controversies, particularly the child abuse allegations made against Jackson later in his life.

Before professional critics weighed in, “Michael” received a notably positive reception from social media influencers and fans. Some critics have argued that the film prioritizes a celebratory narrative over a balanced portrayal. William Bibbiani, writing for TheWrap, noted, “It prints a legend and edits out everything that detracts or distracts from that legend. And while elements of the production are successful, and accurately recreate the pop superstar’s biggest career triumphs, those elements are in service of such an incomplete narrative that it’s hard to celebrate even the parts that work.”

Several individuals involved in the production have defended the film’s approach. Antoine Fuqua, the director, stated in an interview with The New Yorker that he was “not convinced” of the allegations against Michael Jackson. Fuqua added, “Although I don’t know the truth myself, sometimes people do some nasty things for some money.”