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Michael Jackson biopic 'Michael' tops $1 billion worldwide box office
The Antoine Fuqua‑directed biopic “Michael”, starring Jaafar Jackson as his uncle, became the first film about a real person to gross over $1 billion worldwide. Released in April 2026, the movie earned $371.8 million in North America and $629.8 million in international markets, reaching a total of $1.001 billion after 12 weekends. It surpassed the previous records held by “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Oppenheimer”, making it the highest‑grossing musical biopic and the most profitable release in Lionsgate’s history. The opening weekend generated $97 million domestically and $217 million globally, and the film maintained strong attendance despite mixed critical reviews. Key overseas contributors included Japan ($35.75 million) and Russia, among other territories. “Michael” is the second 2026 film to join the billion‑dollar club after “Super Mario Galaxy”, and a sequel is already being planned. The success underscores the enduring global appeal of Michael Jackson’s music and the commercial viability of event‑driven biographical cinema.