02 May,2026 01:14 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Michael Jackson nephew (Pics/Instagram)
Michael, the much-talked-about Michael Jackson biopic, recently arrived in theatres, making a sensational USD 97 million domestically and USD 217 million globally in its first weekend of release. While the film was criticised by many for not showcasing his controversies, a section of filmmakers lauded the filmmaking and Jaafar Jackson's acting. Amid this, Michael's nephew Taj Jackson has slammed a news portal for clickbait articles.
A New York Post report claimed that after the movie's massive Rs 1,800 crore (USD 217 million) opening, the Jackson family were looking to cash in further and were even planning a Thriller tour.
Taking to his X account, the legendary artist's nephew slammed the media house and wrote, "Do I have to drag you again, @nypost? Leave my family alone with your lies and clickbait articles. You and your fake sources. A âfamily source'⦠blah blah blah. Stacy Brown, you have no credibility - never have. That's why I've called you a weasel in the past. And just so you know, Stacy Brown was having dinner with the prosecution team during my uncle's trial. Stop trusting the tabloids."
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by Lionsgate, Michael features Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson's nephew, in the lead role. It traces the journey of the late pop legend from his early days in Gary, Indiana, with the Jackson 5 to global superstardom, including milestones like Off the Wall and Thriller.
The ensemble cast also includes Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, along with Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, and Larenz Tate. The biopic's release has reignited discussions around Michael Jackson's legacy, which remains polarised due to his global musical influence and long-standing legal controversies.
Jaafar Jackson, speaking about the film in an interview cited by People magazine, described his experience watching it, saying, "As soon as it came on, it was a completely different experience than what I thought it was going to be. It went by so fast⦠the second time I saw it was a completely different experience. I was able to understand what the story is and really allow myself to enjoy what's on the screen."
