'Michael' becomes highest-grossing music biopic of all time, surpasses 'Bohemian Rhapsody'
Los Angeles, June 13
The Michael Jackson biopic 'Michael' has become the highest-grossing music biopic of all time, overtaking Bohemian Rhapsody at the global box office, according to People.
According to Deadline, the film has earned USD 911.9 million worldwide since its theatrical release on April 24, surpassing the lifetime global total of Bohemian Rhapsody, which earned USD 910.9 million.
The film had earlier overtaken the 2022 Elvis Presley biopic Elvis before moving past the Freddie Mercury-based Bohemian Rhapsody to claim the top spot among music biopics.
In addition to its worldwide success, Michael has also become the highest-grossing biopic ever at the domestic box office.
The film's latest achievement adds another milestone for producer Graham King, who also produced the Oscar-winning Bohemian Rhapsody.
With the film continuing its theatrical run, another major box-office record could soon be within reach. Michael is now closing in on the USD 1 billion mark globally, a feat achieved earlier this month by The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which currently leads the worldwide box office rankings for 2026, according to People.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, Michael chronicles the life and career of the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson. The project was developed with the support of several members of Jackson's family years after his death in 2009 at the age of 50.
The film stars Jaafar Jackson, the son of Michael Jackson's brother Jermaine Jackson, in the title role. Juliano Krue Valdi portrays a young Michael Jackson, according to People.
The supporting cast includes Colman Domingo as family patriarch Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Miles Teller as lawyer and manager John Branca, Laura Harrier as music executive Suzanne de Passe and Mike Myers as CBS Records executive Walter Yetnikoff.
According to the film's official description, Michael offers an "honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated" music icon. The story concludes in 1988, focusing on Jackson's rise to global superstardom and not covering the allegations that emerged in later years, according to People.
Michael is currently playing in theatres worldwide.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm happy for the film's success, but it's strange they didn't cover the controversial years. MJ's music is iconic, no doubt - 'Thriller' and 'Smooth Criminal' are timeless. But leaving out the later chapters feels incomplete. Still, Jaafar Jackson's performance is getting rave reviews!
As someone who grew up in the 80s in India, MJ was our first global pop star. I remember saving up pocket money for his cassettes! This film brings back so many memories. Crossing $900 million worldwide is incredible. 🎉
Finally a biopic that does justice to music legends! I watched this in a theatre in Mumbai and the crowd was cheering during the dance sequences. 'Michael Jackson' is a global phenomenon, and Indian fans have always loved him. Though, I wish they had included more about his humanitarian work in Africa and India.
Surprising but not shocking! Bohemian Rhapsody was great, but MJ's fanbase is global and multi-generational. Even in small towns in India, people know 'Beat It' and 'Heal the World'. The film seems to capture his genius without getting into messy controversies. Smart move by the producers.
I appreciate the tribute to a musical genius, but it disappoints me that the film avoids the darker aspects of MJ's life. Indian audiences might not know about those allegations because our media never focused on them. An 'honest portrayal' should include both light and shadow. Still, the music deserved this recognition.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.