AJ Jackson, 26, nephew Michael Jacksondons the late singer’s moonwalking shoes as he portrays the King of Pop in the upcoming Lionsgate biopic MikhailDirected by Antoine Fuqua Produced by Graham King.
“It’s so exciting to watch Jafar bring Michael to life,” Fuqua said in a statement to variety. “There was such a spiritual connection when I first met Jafar, who has such a natural ability to emulate Michael and such great chemistry with the camera.”
Jafar was selected for the role after a worldwide casting search, including King – whose credits include 2018 bohemian rhapsody Starring Rami Malek as Freddie Mercury – He said: “It was obvious He is the only one to take on this role.”
King said the king met Jafar more than two years ago and was “stunned by the way he so organically captures Michael’s spirit and personality.” variety. “I am so glad he came on board to portray his uncle and I can’t wait for the world to see him on the big screen as Michael Jackson.”
According to the studio, the biopic will explore all aspects of the late icon’s life, “including his most iconic performances that propelled him to become the greatest artist of all time.” In addition to detailing his legacy as well He will not shy away from Michael’s argumentsaccording to the deadline.
While there is no official release date for MikhailThe outlet notes that principal photography will begin in 2023.
Between his professional past and personal background, here’s everything you need to know about Jafar.
His father is Jermaine Jackson, brother of Michael Jackson
Jafar is the son of Jermaine Jackson and Alejandra Genevieve Oziasa. The couple, who were married from 1995 to 2003, welcomed Jaffar in July 1996. Jermaine is a singer, songwriter, and producer who is best known for being a member of the Jackson 5 alongside his brother, Michael.
He is an up-and-coming singer
It was Jaafar Singing and dancing since the age of 12, according to Deadline, and has featured himself covering artists like Sam Cooke to Marvin Gaye, along with originals. In 2019, he released his first single “Got Me Singing” along with a music video showcasing his talents.
Mikhail He will be celebrating his acting debut
Jafar is no stranger to the screen, having appeared in a number of family-oriented projects over the years, including 2015’s Jackson: The Next Generation And the music video by Tito Jackson 2021 “We love each other.”
But Mikhail It marks Jafar’s acting debut. “It’s so exciting to watch Jafar bring Michael to life,” Fuqua said. variety. “There was such a spiritual connection when I first met Jafar, who has such a natural ability to emulate Michael and such great chemistry with the camera.”
He received the approval of Michael Jackson’s mother, Katherine
Jafar already has the seal of approval from the person who knows Michael best: his mother. Catherine, the mother of the King of Pop, said so Jafar “personifies” her son. “It’s great to see him continue Jackson’s legacy of entertainers and performers,” she said. Hollywood Reporter.
He is “honored” to play Michael Jackson
On January 30, Jaafar uploaded a photo to his Instagram announcing the Mikhail news casting. “I am With humility and honor To bring to life the story of my Uncle Michael,” he captioned a black and white photo of himself striking the late singer’s iconic pose. “To all the fans around the world, I’ll see you soon,” he added.