The biopic on the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, titled Michael, is set for a theatrical worldwide release on April 24, 2026. Key members of the Jackson family are backing the film through the Jackson estate. However, Janet Jackson, Michael Jackson’s younger sister, has been missing from the red carpet events, and her sister LaToya Jackson explained why in a recent interview.
Janet Jackson’s wish not to be in Michael Jackson’s biopic must be respected, says La Toya Jackson
At the film’s Los Angeles premiere, La Toya walked the red carpet with her siblings, which included Jackie, Marlon, Randy, and Jermaine. In an interview with Variety, she addressed Janet Jackson’s absence from the film premiere.
La Toya Jackson stated that Janet was approached to be included in the film but chose not to participate or be portrayed. “She was asked, and she kindly declined,” La Toya told the media outlet, adding, “so you have to respect her wishes.”
Furthermore, the director of the film, Antoine Fuqua, stated his respect and love for Janet Jackson remains even though she distanced herself from the project. “I have so much respect and love for Janet, but you know it’s okay. She’s supportive of Jaafar, and that’s what matters,” he stated.
Janet Jackson has yet to comment on the Jackson biopic and why she declined involvement. As per sources in the industry, Janet treasures her private life and rarely makes public appearances, so it may be that she prefers staying out of the limelight. Meanwhile, some media reports suggest that there are internal tensions and disagreements about the project among certain family members. Along with Janet, Michael’s daughter, Paris Jackson, was also absent from the premiere.
Safe to say, it is hard to pinpoint the exact reason why Janet Jackson was not involved in her brother’s biopic, so all that remains are speculations. Nevertheless, at the end of the day, the family and filmmakers respected her decision.
The movie features Michael Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, playing the legendary musician himself. The film revolves around the highs and lows of the pop legend, tracing his musical career from his early days in the Jackson 5 to becoming one of the most successful and celebrated artists of our generation.
Are you excited to watch Michael? Let us know in the comments section below.
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