The first teaser for the Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, has fans buzzing, mostly about the actor playing MJ. That actor is Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s actual nephew, who bears an uncanny resemblance to his legendary uncle.
Jaafar Jackson is 29, born in July 1996 in Los Angeles. He is the son of Jermaine Jackson, Michael’s older brother, and Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza. Jaafar initially tried professional golf but switched to music at age 12. He learned singing, dancing, and piano, releasing his debut single, Got Me Singing, in 2019. He has also covered classics from legends like Sam Cooke and Marvin Gaye, showing that musical talent runs deep in the Jackson family.
Music truly runs in his DNA. Jaafar’s father Jermaine, along with uncles Jackie, Marlon, Tito, Michael, and Randy, were part of The Jackson 5. His aunts Janet, La Toya, and Rebbie Jackson are also musicians. Growing up, Jaafar spent time with Michael at Neverland, playing games, riding attractions, and watching movies. He remembers the loss of his uncle in 2009 as very difficult and regrets not having deeper conversations about music with him.
The biopic, set to release in April 2026, will cover Michael’s life, from his chart-topping hits to the controversies and courtroom drama. Antoine Fuqua directs, and John Logan wrote the screenplay. The film also stars Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Miles Teller as attorney John Branca, and Kat Graham as Diana Ross. Fans are excited to see Jaafar bring his uncle’s story to life.
