Michael Jackson Biopic Premieres in Hometown of Gary

Film celebrates the Jackson family's roots and legacy in the city where they grew up.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 3:37pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of shimmering, high-contrast sequins and velvet textures, conceptually representing the glamour and legacy of Michael Jackson's life and career.The premiere of the Michael Jackson biopic in his hometown of Gary, Indiana celebrates the Jackson family's legacy and the King of Pop's enduring cultural impact.Gary Today

A new biopic about Michael Jackson, titled 'Michael', premiered in Gary, Indiana - the hometown of the Jackson family. The film's star, Jaafar Jackson (Michael's nephew), emphasized the importance of honoring his uncle's discipline and artistry. Members of the Jackson 5, including Jackie and Marlon Jackson, attended the premiere and praised the movie for its family appeal and cultural significance.

Why it matters

Gary, Indiana is the birthplace of the Jackson 5 and the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. The premiere of this biopic in the Jackson family's hometown shines a spotlight on the city's cultural legacy and the family's humble origins, which helped shape Michael Jackson's iconic career.

The details

The premiere of the 'Michael' biopic in Gary, Indiana was attended by the film's star, Jaafar Jackson, as well as several members of the Jackson 5, including Jackie and Marlon Jackson. Jaafar Jackson, who plays the role of his uncle Michael, emphasized the importance of understanding his discipline and artistry. The Jacksons praised the film for its family-oriented approach and its ability to introduce Michael Jackson's story to a new generation.

  • The 'Michael' biopic premiered in Gary, Indiana on April 14, 2026.

The players

Jaafar Jackson

The actor who portrays Michael Jackson in the new biopic, and Michael's nephew.

Jackie Jackson

A member of the Jackson 5 and Michael Jackson's brother.

Marlon Jackson

A member of the Jackson 5 and Michael Jackson's brother.

Graham King

The producer of the 'Michael' biopic.

Karen Toering

The head of the Gary International Black Film Festival.

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What they’re saying

“Going into this project I always knew it was a big responsibility. It's Michael Jackson, and I know he's my uncle but I wanted to go into it as if I had no connection, learning about him from the very, very beginning and understanding the lyrics behind all of the songs, his discipline, his artistry.”

— Jaafar Jackson, Actor portraying Michael Jackson

“A lot of people like to emulate Michael, which they do a lot of. [Jaafar] became Michael.”

— Jackie Jackson, Member of the Jackson 5

“I really enjoyed the film. I think it's a family-oriented film and it's going to bring people back to the theaters.”

— Marlon Jackson, Member of the Jackson 5

“We're gonna show the younger generation that don't know Gary and don't know that Michael was raised in Gary. We're gonna teach them where he came from and where it started.”

— Graham King, Producer of 'Michael' biopic

“This is where it all started. Gary is part of that story. We really wanted Gary to take its rightful place in the history of Michael and the Jackson family.”

— Karen Toering, Head of Gary International Black Film Festival

What’s next

The 'Michael' biopic is expected to have a wide theatrical release in the coming months, introducing the story of the King of Pop to a new generation of fans.

The takeaway

The premiere of the 'Michael' biopic in Gary, Indiana celebrates the Jackson family's humble roots and the city's cultural legacy, honoring the King of Pop's iconic career and introducing his story to a new generation of fans.