Image Credit: Glen Wilson/Lionsgate
The highly anticipated Michael Jackson biographical movie, Michael, boasts a cast filled with notable actors. The movie will delve into the early days of the iconic King of Pop, who passed away in 2009, and how his involvement with the Jackson 5 launched him toward building one of the most triumphant individual music journeys globally.
Continue reading to discover each actor from the Michael biopic and the character they are embodying.
Jaafar Jackson – Michael Jackson
Being the nephew of the iconic King of Pop, it seemed fitting that Jaafar would pay homage to his uncle. Jaafar is gifted as a singer, actor, and dancer, contributing his diverse abilities to the silver screen. In 2019, he dropped his initial track, “Got Me Singing.”
Following his casting as Michael back in 2023, Jaafar expressed on Instagram that he was “humbled and honored to bring my Uncle Michael’s story to life.”
Colman Domingo – Joe Jackson
Colman is taking on the role of Michael’s dad, Joe Jackson. The actor has been featured in a variety of projects, most recently including Candyman, The Running Man, and Wicked For Good.
Joe served as the leader of the Jackson 5, as he motivated his sons to chase a music career in the late 1960s. Joe died in 2018.
Nia Long – Katherine Jackson
Nia will portray Michael’s mom, Katherine Jackson. Having been raised with musical exposure, Katherine had aspirations to become a country music artist or a performer.
As for Nia, she is widely recognized for her roles in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Boyz n The Hood, and NCIS: Los Angeles.
Jamal R. Henderson – Jermaine Jackson
Jamal is playing Jermaine, the fourth-born child of Katherine and Joe, and also the second vocalist and bass player for the Jackson 5.
Tre Horton – Marlon Jackson
Marlon will be embodied by Tre. As the sixth child of Joe, he had a twin brother who passed away soon after birth.
Rhyan Hill – Tito Jackson
Rhyan will embody the late Tito, a founding member of the Jackson 5. Following the band’s success, Tito started a solo career as a blues artist. Tito passed away in September 2024 due to a heart attack. He was 70 years old.
David-Jones – Jackie Jackson
David will play the part of the eldest Jackson sibling, Jackie, who is the second child of Joe and Katherine.
Kat Graham – Diana Ross
Kat is embodying the Queen of Motown, Diana, whose 1969 effort, Diana Ross Presents the Jackson 5, initially put the young siblings on the map in the music world. Known for her popular tracks like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” Diana was Motown’s most fruitful performer of the 1960s.
Miles Teller – John Branca
Miles is taking on the part of entertainment lawyer and manager John, whom Michael enlisted after dismissing his father as his manager. Michael ultimately fired John due to alleged financial involvement.