Casting is one of the most important elements in making a movie and can be a difficult and arduous process. Producers are searching for just the right fit. Thankfully, in the case of the new Michael Jackson biographical film Michael, the creative team has found exactly the right person for the title role.
Jaafar Jackson will fill his late uncle’s moonwalking shoes. This will mark the first major film role for the 26-year-old. His family connection makes this experience even more special.
Jaafar confirmed his casting on his newly created Instagram account. “I’m humbled and honored to bring my Uncle Michael’s story to life. To all the fans all over the world, I’ll see you soon,” he wrote. He posted a black-and-white photo of him rehearsing in one of Michael’s signature poses along with the caption.
Jaafar is the son of Jermaine Jackson, Michael’s older brother and fellow Jackson 5 member, and Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza. His parents were married in 1995 but divorced in 2003. Jaafar has a brother and five half-siblings.
Jaafar’s grandmother, Katherine Jackson, is over the moon about his casting and gives her full approval. “Jaafar embodies my son. It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers,” she stated.
Michael will be directed by Antoine Fuqua with a screenplay by John Logan. Antoine explains that the film’s plot “explores the journey of the man who became the King of Pop.” Michael began his career as a child in the family band the Jackson 5 before becoming an iconic solo performer. He died in 2009 at the age of 50.
Michael is being created with the support of the Jackson estate. Because of this, it is unknown whether some of the more controversial aspects of his life will be addressed, including allegations of child sexual abuse. Michael adamantly denied these and was found not guilty of child molestation in one 2005 case.
Graham King, one of the producers of the film, wants to be clear that Jaafar did not get this role simply because of nepotism. An extensive search was performed before he was offered the role. The search led them right back where they started, Jaafar.
“I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away by the way he organically personifies the spirit and personality of Michael. It was something so powerful that even after conducting a worldwide search, it was clear that he is the only person to take on this role,” Graham stated.
Other producers on this film include John Branca and John McClain, who are the co-executors of the Jackson estate. Lionsgate, the studio behind the film, promises it will have Michael’s “most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.” The film is scheduled to begin principal photography this year.
