The new Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, has made a record-breaking debut at the global box office, earning an estimated $217 million in its opening weekend and becoming the highest-grossing launch ever for a biographical film.
The film stars Jaafar Jackson in the role of his late uncle, global music icon Michael Jackson.
Released midweek, the biopic quickly gained momentum across international markets, driving its total past previous record holders in the genre.
Industry figures show it has now surpassed Bohemian Rhapsody, which opened with $124 million, as well as Oppenheimer, which recorded a $180 million opening weekend in 2024.
The performance establishes Michael as the strongest global debut for a music biopic in cinema history.
The film’s success continues Hollywood’s recent trend of high-performing musical biopics, joining titles centred on icons such as Queen, Elton John, Elvis Presley, Bob Marley, Amy Winehouse, and Whitney Houston.
