Gary to Host Exclusive 'Michael' Movie Screening for Residents

City leaders aim to celebrate Michael Jackson's legacy and invest in local youth programs.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 8:28pm

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A bold, abstract composition of jagged, geometric shapes in striking red and black, conceptually representing the legacy of Michael Jackson and the city of Gary, Indiana.The city of Gary celebrates its most famous son with an exclusive screening of the Michael Jackson biopic, honoring the icon's enduring legacy and investing in the next generation of local talent.Gary Today

The city of Gary, Indiana, will host a special screening of the new Michael Jackson biopic 'Michael' for Gary residents only. The screening will take place on April 13 at the West Side Leadership Academy's Mark Spencer Auditorium, which seats 2,000 people. Tickets are limited to two per household and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis starting on Wednesday. Filmmakers, cast, and members of the Jackson family are expected to attend the event.

Why it matters

Michael Jackson's roots are deeply embedded in the city of Gary, and hosting this exclusive screening is seen as a way for the community to celebrate his legacy and invest in the next generation of local talent. The event is a collaboration between the city government and the Gary International Black Film Festival, highlighting the city's commitment to the arts and cultural heritage.

The details

The 'Michael' screening will be held at 6 p.m. on April 13 at the West Side Leadership Academy's Mark Spencer Auditorium. Tickets are free but limited to two per Gary household and will be available at various community organizations starting on Wednesday morning. Donations will be accepted by the West Side Theater Guild, with proceeds going towards youth programming. Filmmakers, cast, and members of the Jackson family are expected to attend the event.

  • The 'Michael' screening will be held on April 13, 2026 at 6 p.m.
  • Tickets will be available starting on Wednesday, April 9, 2026 at 10 a.m.

The players

Eddie Melton

The mayor of Gary, Indiana, who announced the city's plans to host the exclusive 'Michael' screening.

Karen Toering

The founder and director of the Gary International Black Film Festival, which is collaborating with the city to bring the 'Michael' screening to Gary.

Mark Spencer

The state senator from Gary and the director of performing arts at West Side Leadership Academy, where the screening will be held.

Jaafar Jackson

The son of Jermaine Jackson, who is starring as Michael Jackson in the 'Michael' biopic.

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What they’re saying

“Michael Jackson's legacy is woven into the very fabric of our city and our world. From humble beginnings at 2300 Jackson Street to the global stage, his journey started right here in Gary, Indiana. Hosting this exclusive screening is a profound honor for our community, allowing us to celebrate our most famous son while investing directly in the next generation of Gary's creative and athletic talent.”

— Eddie Melton, Mayor of Gary, Indiana

“We are grateful to Mayor Melton and the city of Gary for standing with the Gary International Black Film Festival … to bring 'Michael' home, ensuring that his story reaches the people and the place that shaped him.”

— Karen Toering, Founder and Director, Gary International Black Film Festival

“Any time that Gary is on a national stage, I think we should all feel pride. I'm honored to be part of it, and I think this is an opportunity for the world to reflect and appreciate the artistic achievements of this incredible family and the spirit of our community and Gary.”

— Mark Spencer, State Senator, Gary, Indiana

What’s next

Tickets for the 'Michael' screening will be available starting on Wednesday, April 9, 2026 at 10 a.m. on a first-come, first-served basis for Gary residents only.

The takeaway

This exclusive screening of the 'Michael' biopic in Gary, Indiana, the hometown of the legendary Michael Jackson, is a powerful celebration of the city's cultural heritage and an investment in the next generation of local talent. By opening the event only to Gary residents, the city is fostering a sense of civic pride and ensuring that the story of this iconic artist reaches the people and place that shaped him.