Paris Jackson Denies Knowledge, Expresses Concerns Over Michael Jackson Biopic After Colman Domingo's Casting Announcement

The highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, simply titled 'Michael,' has stirred considerable buzz, particularly with recent casting news. However, a fresh wave of conversation has erupted following comments from Michael Jackson's daughter, Paris Jackson, who has publicly distanced herself from the film, specifically regarding the casting of Colman Domingo as her grandfather, Joe Jackson.

Domingo, a critically acclaimed actor known for his powerful performances, recently confirmed to Variety that he would be stepping into the shoes of the iconic family patriarch.

Expressing his excitement, Domingo stated, “I’m looking forward to getting in there and telling a story. I’m actually really excited to do it.” He also noted that he had been in touch with Michael's mother, Katherine Jackson, but not Paris herself.

However, Paris Jackson’s take painted a different picture, introducing a layer of skepticism surrounding the production.

Responding to a fan's query on X (formerly Twitter) asking for her thoughts on Domingo's casting, Paris candidly replied, “i haven't seen anything about it. as an artist, i really don't like to say things i don't know about.” More significantly, she added, “all i know is my family has not been involved, and from what i’ve heard, the script was heavily sensationalized and was not good at all.”

This statement by Paris Jackson is particularly revealing.

Her assertion that the “family has not been involved” directly contradicts the idea of a fully sanctioned, family-backed portrayal, even as other family members like Jaafar Jackson (Michael's nephew) are starring in the titular role. Her critique of the script as “heavily sensationalized” and “not good at all” also casts a shadow of doubt on the film's potential for authentic storytelling, suggesting a narrative that might prioritize drama over factual accuracy or a respectful depiction of her father's life.

Lionsgate and Universal are behind the ambitious project, with Antoine Fuqua set to direct and Graham King producing.

The script is penned by John Logan. Jaafar Jackson, chosen to portray his famous uncle, has generated considerable interest, with the film tentatively slated for an April 18, 2025 release. Despite these powerhouse names and the involvement of Jaafar, Paris Jackson’s public comments highlight a significant internal rift or at least a lack of unified family endorsement for the project.

The divergence in sentiment — Domingo's enthusiasm versus Paris Jackson's detachment and criticism — sets the stage for a fascinating discussion surrounding the biopic.

It raises questions about creative control, the balance between entertainment and authenticity, and the intricate dynamics of a famous family grappling with its legacy. As production continues, the film will undoubtedly face intense scrutiny, especially with such prominent family members expressing differing views on its portrayal of the King of Pop and his complex life story.