The upcoming Michael Jackson biopic has fans seated for the fictionalised version of the King Of Pop’s life story, with special focus on Jackson’s personal life and his relationship with those around him.
One of the central characters in the film, Jackson’s mother Katherine Jackson is being played by actress Nia Long, who gave fans a small insight into what went into the making of the film and how she feels to stand in the shoes of Katherine. Here’s everything she revealed about the film and how she prepared herself for the role.
Nia Long Talks About What It’s Like To Play Katherine Jackson
Offering a few thoughts on her Katherine Jackson role, Nia Long describes the character as someone who “carried the weight of the world on her shoulders.”
At the American Black Film Festival on Thursday, June 13, the 53-year-old actress—who plays the matriarch of the Jackson family in the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic Michael—spoke about the project and how much she admired Katherine.
Talking about the role, Long said, “It was a huge responsibility to represent a woman who is iconic, who has carried the weight of the world on her shoulders, who is still with us gracefully. And I am hoping that I delivered because one never knows. I just put in the work and tried to do my best. It was an opportunity of a lifetime.”
She then added, “As a mother, she was selfless and endured forces beyond her control yet still managed to help build a legacy beyond measure. I am honored to bring her voice to the screen and share Michael Jackson’s story with audiences everywhere.”
In Case You Missed It: Lionsgate’s Michael Jackson Biopic ‘Michael’ Will Hit Theaters Globally In 2025, His Nephew Jaafar Jackson To Play Lead
Michael Jackson’s Biopic
A biopic on the King of Pop, simply named Michael, is in the works at Lionsgate, and was announced in January 2023. Jaafar, Jackson’s 27-year-old nephew, will portray him in the film. Following an international casting call, he was chosen for the part. More castings include Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson and Nia Long as Katherine Jackson.
The singer’s life will be fully covered by the biographical film; however, it is not yet known if it will touch on Jackson’s scandals, such as the child sex abuse accusations against him that were most recently made public in the 2019 documentary ‘Leaving Neverland.’
The film’s synopsis reads, “Michael will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became the King of Pop. The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic, cinematic scale — from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, exemplified by his most iconic performances. As never before, audiences will experience an inside look into one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.”
The film is set to release in April 2025.
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