Golden Globes reject 'Michael' biopic from musical category

The Golden Globes committee has rejected the submission of the Michael Jackson biopic, titled ‘Michael’, for the Musical or Comedy categories. Lionsgate, the film's studio, originally sought classification in these genres, but the committee determined the musical sequences do not meet the organization's specific criteria.

Under Golden Globes rules, songs must do more than accompany a story; they must actively advance the plot alongside spoken dialogue. The committee reportedly ruled that the film's musical numbers function more as recreations of iconic performances rather than narrative drivers. Consequently, the film is expected to compete in the Drama categories instead.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson as his uncle, the film has already achieved significant commercial success, becoming the first biopic to surpass $1 billion at the worldwide box office. While the category shift may impact Jaafar Jackson's lead acting campaign, the ruling does not affect supporting actors Colman Domingo and Nia Long, as their categories are not divided by genre.

Lionsgate has until the October 31 deadline to appeal the decision. If the appeal is unsuccessful, the film will proceed in the drama categories for the 2027 awards season.