Jermaine Jackson Challenges $6.5 Million Default Judgment Amid Son's 'Michael' Biopic Promotion

A Los Angeles County Superior Court entered a $6.5 million default judgment against former Jackson 5 member Jermaine Jackson on May 14 after he failed to respond to a civil lawsuit alleging he raped session‑musician coordinator Rita Butler Barrett in 1988. Jackson claims he never received proper service because the complaint named him under his former legal name, and he is now seeking to have the judgment vacated and obtain a chance to defend himself.

Jackson says the judgment “ruined what should have been a proud and important professional moment” for his son Jaafar, who is starring as Michael Jackson in the Lionsgate biopic “Michael.” The film opened on April 24, debuted with $97 million domestically, and is on track to become the highest‑grossing music biopic ever. Jackson argues the lawsuit’s publicity has overshadowed the film’s promotion and damaged his family’s reputation.