Playing the singing and dancing phenom that was Michael Jackson on screen was never going to be an easy task.
Which perhaps explains why producers behind a planned biopic
have cast the leading role with a member of the family: The pop icon's nephew
Jaafar Jackson will play the title role in "Michael," which starts
filming this year.
Jackson, 26, is the second youngest son of Jermaine Jackson,
68, Michael's brother and former Jackson 5 member. Michael Jackson, whose
career spanned global hits and persistent scandal, died in 2009 at age 50.
Here's everything that's known about the film so far.
Jackson grew up in Los Angeles, surrounded by his musical
family. In 2019, he released his first sing called "Got Me Singing,"
which was accompanied by a video that was shot in Brazil. The song is heavily
reminiscent of his uncle's sound, from its staccato Latin beats to Jackson's
plaintive vocals. Jackson also flexes some solid dance moves on Brazilian
rooftops.
“Jaafar embodies my son. It’s so wonderful to see him carry on
the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers,” said Katherine Jackson,
Michael Jackson's mother, in a statement provided by Lionsgate Films.
Added producer Graham King, whose credits include the Queen
biopic "Bohemian Rhapsody": “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."
Source: USA Today