The Michael Jackson biopic, тιтled Michael, could potentially be split into two movies following reports of significant reshoots. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, with a script written by John Logan, the upcoming musical biopic chronicles the complicated life and career of the legendary singer and dancer. Michael Jackson’s own nephew, Jaafar Jackson, plays the pop star, alongside two-time Oscar nominee Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Larenz Tate, Laura Harrier, Kat Graham, Jessica Sula, Liv Symone, Kevin Shinick, and many more.

Now, according to a new report from ᴅᴇᴀᴅline, the Michael Jackson biopic could be split into two movies, due to its nearly four-hour cut. Additionally, it’s unlikely that the movie will meet its currently scheduled release date on October 3. Another reported reason for the delay is its mention of the molestation allegations made against Jackson in the early 1990s, which the Jackson estate insists not be mentioned in the movie, leading to a fierce internal dispute and extensive reshoots.

What The Latest Report Means For The Michael Jackson Movie

There Is Much Uncertainty As It Contradicts A Prior Report

The latest report from ᴅᴇᴀᴅline claims that there are concerns over the Michael Jackson biopic’s near four-hour cut and, as a result, it could be split into two movies. However, a final decision hasn’t been made yet. In turn, it’s unlikely that the movie will meet its October 3 release date, and could be pushed to 2026. Nothing is set in stone yet, so there is still a slim chance that the Michael Jackson biopic could be released at the end of this year in time for awards season.

According to the latest report, another reason for the delay involves the legal and contractual disputes over how to portray the molestation allegations made against Jackson in the early 1990s by the family of 13-year-old Jordan Chandler. Although Jackson settled with the family for $20 million without admitting guilt, his estate insists that Chandler not be mentioned in the film. However, the inclusion of the allegations has sparked an intense internal conflict and led to significant reshoots. This is mostly in line with, but does contradict some parts of Puck‘s previous report about the Michael Jackson movie.

Our Take On The Michael Jackson Movie Reports

Omitting The Allegations Would Be A Mistake

Since the Michael Jackson movie was made with the involvement of his estate, it’s likely that it won’t mention the molestation allegations made against him. In 2005, Jackson faced a highly publicized trial for molestation allegations, and though he was ultimately acquitted of all charges, the case caused him to retreat from the public eye for the last four years of his life. In turn, omitting the mention of these molestation allegations entirely could severely damage the credibility of the Michael Jackson biopic.

Source: ᴅᴇᴀᴅline