Saudi Arabia is set to become one of the first countries in the world to screen “Michael,” the long-awaited biographical film about the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Saudi cinemas will open the film on April 22, 2026 — two days ahead of its official US theatrical release on April 24 — offering local audiences an early look at one of this year’s most anticipated entertainment events.
A Debut Rooted in Legacy
The film is directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, with Michael Jackson portrayed by his nephew Jaafar Jackson in his feature film debut. The casting choice drew immediate global attention: Jaafar, who began performing at age twelve, has spoken openly about the weight of representing his uncle’s life on screen, acknowledging that the family connection brought deeper responsibility rather than easier access to the role.
The ensemble cast includes Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Miles Teller, and Colman Domingo. Produced by Lionsgate Films in association with GK Films and distributed internationally by Universal Pictures, “Michael” carries a reported production budget of between $155 million and $200 million, making it one of the most expensive music biopics ever made. The film premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival on April 10, 2026, before beginning its worldwide theatrical rollout.
Production Challenges and Controversy
The road to release was not without obstacles. Director Fuqua was required to cut scenes related to the legal proceedings surrounding Michael Jackson due to confidentiality clauses tied to a 1993 settlement, a decision that necessitated additional photography in June 2025 and added approximately $15 million to the production’s final cost. The film’s runtime was also the subject of extended debate, with earlier cuts running to nearly four hours before the final version was trimmed to 127 minutes.
The film has also faced criticism from within the Jackson family itself. Paris Jackson, Michael’s daughter, has publicly described the script as “fanciful and far removed from reality,” and contradicted statements made by cast members regarding her involvement in and approval of the project. These tensions have added a layer of scrutiny to the promotional campaign, though audience anticipation remains high.
Saudi Arabia at the Forefront of Global Entertainment
The early screening of “Michael” in Saudi Arabia is consistent with the kingdom’s growing prominence as a major market for international entertainment. Saudi cinemas have increasingly received major releases ahead of or alongside global premiere dates, a shift that reflects both the rapid expansion of the local cinema industry and the broader cultural investments made under Vision 2030.
Tickets for the April 22 screenings are available through major Saudi cinema chains. The film is expected to draw substantial audiences given the enduring global popularity of Michael Jackson’s music and the widespread curiosity surrounding Jaafar Jackson’s portrayal of his iconic uncle.
