‘Michael' Has Officially Broken the Record for Highest Grossing Biopic - Aiming To Break $1 Billion
Michael has officially become the highest-grossing biopic of all time, surpassing Christopher Nolan'sOppenheimer to claim the record.
Michael has grossed $977 million worldwide. Oppenheimer earned $975 million globally, a feat for a historical drama. Earlier this month, Michael also overtook 2018's Bohemian Rhapsody as the biggest musical biopic of all time. At the time, it had just reached Japan's market, which meant it was expected to make millions more in ticket sales.
The Michael Jackson biopic has continued to dominate at the box office as the summer season begins. The film is now aiming for the $1 billion mark, though it may still fall short. Released at the end of April, it is coming to the end of its global theatrical run.
The film has also broken the record for Lionsgate's highest-grossing film of all time. The previous record holder was The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, which grossed $865 million in 2013.
The popularity of the film also allowed Jackson's music to skyrocket in the charts again. Thriller and Billie Jean both made their way to the number one spot on the BillboardR&B charts.
The film stars Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson. He is Michael Jackson's nephew in real life, and his family supported the casting. The biopic also stars Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, and Mike Myers.
Director Antoine Fuqua focused on Jackson's life, from the Jackson 5 to the peak of his career. Originally, Fuqua planned for Michael's third act to focus on the controversial aspects of the singer's life. He filmed the FBI invading Jackson's infamous Neverland Ranch, but legal issues forced that portion to be reshot. The Estate bore the reshoot costs because it was their error. They missed a clause in the settlement with one of Jackson's alleged victims, preventing any depiction of him. The current version of the film omits the allegations of child sexual abuse.
Next: ‘Michael' Is Officially the Highest-Grossing Musical Biopic Ever
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Jun 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published June 28, 2026 at 4:50 PM.