Johannesburg, 29 April 2026: It turns out South Africa still has a lot of love for Michael Jackson. The new biopic MICHAEL just landed, and the response has been massive. Not only did it soar to the top of the charts across Southern Africa, but it also broke the record for the highest-grossing opening weekend for any biopic in local history. It’s easily the standout cinematic event of the year.

With an opening weekend exceeding R10 million and a powerful surge following the public holiday on Monday, the film’s cumulative gross has climbed to an impressive R16 million. This exceptional performance signals strong audience appetite and positions MICHAEL as one of the most compelling theatrical releases of the year.

A Global Icon, Reimagined for the Big Screen

Bringing to life the story of one of the most influential entertainers of all time, MICHAEL traces the rise of Michael Jackson from child star to global phenomenon. The film explores the defining moments, creative breakthroughs and personal complexities that shaped his journey, offering audiences an intimate look at the man behind the music.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by Graham King, the film combines cinematic scale with a deeply human narrative. A standout performance by Jaafar Jackson at its centre anchors the story, supported by meticulous attention to detail across production design, choreography and music, ensuring that the spirit of Jackson’s artistry is felt throughout.

With its record-breaking debut and sustained momentum, MICHAEL has established itself as the must-see cinema event of the year, capturing the imagination of audiences and reaffirming the big screen as the ultimate stage for iconic storytelling.

MICHAEL is now showing in cinemas nationwide.

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