Nia Long has been tapped to play Katherine Jackson, the mother of the iconic Michael Jackson, in the upcoming biographical drama based on the star.
Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, reportedly will play the role of Michael Jackson, while Colman Domingo will portray the family’s patriarch, Joe Jackson, Variety reported.
“Nia has delivered iconic performances throughout her career,” director Antoine Fuqua said in a statement. “I’ve been a fan for a long time because her characters stay with you. I’m excited to now work alongside her as she pours all of that into Katherine Jackson: a woman who was the glue, the rock, and the heart of the Jackson family during its best and its most turbulent times.”
“Michael” is expected to chronicle the singer’s complicated legacy. According to the description, the movie will showcase the life of a “brilliant yet complicated man” who is widely regarded as one of the greatest performers of all time. The screenplay for the movie was written by John Logan, whose notable works include “Gladiator,” “Sweeney Todd,” and the James Bond films “Skyfall” and “Spectre.”
“Katherine Jackson is an incredible pillar of strength and grace for the entire Jackson family,” Long said. “As a mother, she was selfless and endured forces beyond her control yet still managed to help build a legacy beyond measure.”
The biopic “Michael” is currently in production and is expected to hit theaters on April 18, 2025.
Graham King (“Bohemian Rhapsody”) is producing the movie with the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain.
Lionsgate will distribute the film in the US, while Universal Pictures International will handle all territories, excluding Japan, which will be overseen by Lionsgate.
“Beyond Nia’s incredible talent, I was deeply moved by her connection to the material and her commitment to honoring Katherine and the love she had for her son,” King said in a statement.
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