King of Pop: Michael Jackson to be Played by His Own Nephew Jaafar Jackson in Upcoming Biopic

Chisom Ndianefo
Close up of Jaafar Jackson
Getty | Araya Doheny

The King of Pop, Michael Jackson's story is coming to life on screen through his nephew Jaafar. The 26-year-old revealed the news in a new Instagram update, saying it's an honor to tell the legend's story.

Jaafar Unveils The First Look

Jaafar, the son of Jermaine Jackson (Michael's older brother and one of the Jackson 5) said he's "humbled and honored" to play the late Pop star in the biopic.

Becoming Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson dancing
Giphy

The 26-year-old made his announcement with a picture of himself dressed like Michael and dancing in front of some mirrors. He did one of the pop star's signature moves, yet fans wonder if he can pull off the performance.

It'll Be His Acting Debut

The younger Jackson is a talented singer known for his single, Got Me Singing. However, he's never acted in a movie, raising concerns about his ability to pull off the acting aspect.

Lionsgate Is In Charge Of The Biopic

Movie producer Graham King (Bohemian Rhapsody, Queen), writer John Logan (Penny Dreadful, They/Them), and director Antoine Fuqua (Training Day, The Equalizer) are at the helm of affairs.

The Movie Producers Trust Jaafar's Ability

Fuqua believes in Jaafar's ability to portray Michael and co-signed him on Instagram with a post on his feed.

Nothing Is Off-Limits

Michael Jackson performing
Flickr | Linxguy

The Lionsgate-produced biopic would dig deep into the singer's life, including his most disturbing controversies, from the pedophilia accusations to the drug use and his unfortunate death at 50 in 2009.

Michael's Son, Prince Approves

Close up of Prince Jackson
Flickr | mjmedia09returns

Michael's son Prince has no problem with his cousin landing the lead role in his father's biopic. He congratulated his cousin via Instagram, saying he couldn't be happier with the casting. Prince said Jaafar would be great, and he couldn't be prouder of the singer in his acting debut.

Prince Shares Some Kind Words For Jaafar

Prince said Jaafar is doing a great job and working overtime to present his best performance. The actor and producer said the 26-year-old would show the best parts of his father that the world doesn't yet know. Perhaps he doesn't know about Lionsgate's intended direction.

Get Ready To Relive The Most Iconic Performances From The King Of Pop

Michael Jackson performing
Giphy

Fuqua admitted that fans will see some of their favorite moments from the singer, including his "most iconic performances." The Jackson family is pleased with this development as it'll make them closer than ever as they revisit some of Michael's best moments.