Michael Jackson’s upcoming biopic seems to have found an actor who will embody the role of the late King of Pop and this is none other than a member of the great Jackson family. The film’s director, Antoine Fuqua took to Instagram on January 30 to announce that Michael Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, has been chosen to play the role of the music icon.
Antoine Fuqua posted a picture that had Jaafar rocking familiar clothing and accessories associated with his uncle, a dark fedora, crisp white v-neck T-shirt, white socks, and loafers while striking a dance step exactly like the late Michael Jackson. “Proud to announce @jaafarjackson as Michael,” the director wrote in his caption. “The motion picture event that explores the journey of the man who became the King of Pop. Coming soon.”
Who is Jaafar Jackson?
Jaafar is the son of Jermaine Jackson, Michael’s brother, a member of the Jackson 5, and his ex-wife, Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza whom he was married to from 1995 to 2003. The 26-year-old was born in July 1996. He started singing and dancing at the age of 12 and has showcased his talent by making covers for artists like Sam Cooke, and Marvin Gaye, while also dropping some originals.
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However, before becoming a full-fledged singer like his uncle, he earlier had the dream of being a professional golfer, one which he dropped for music due to the influence of his super-talented family. In 2019, he released his first single, “Got Me Singing,” along with a music video.
Jaafar Jackson was selected for the role after a global audition
The choice of Jaafar to play the role of Michael Jackson by the movie producer, Graham King was not born out of the fact that they are family, he was selected to take up the role after a series of casting searches all over the world for the best actor who could perfectly embody the King of Pop. Graham King, who is popular for his 2018 film, Bohemian Rhapsody starring Rami Malek as Freddie Mercury stated that, “It was clear that he [Jaafar Jackson] is the only person to take on this role.”
King revealed to Variety that when he met the 26-year-old over two years ago, he was immediately blown away by the way he embodies the spirit and personality of Michael seamlessly. “I am beyond thrilled that he has come on board to portray his uncle and cannot wait for the world to see him on the big screen as Michael Jackson.”
The director, Antoine Fuqua also told Variety that Jaafar is a perfect blend of the late Pop icon. “It’s incredibly exciting to watch Jaafar bring Michael to life,” he told the news outlet. “There was such a spiritual connection when I first met Jaafar, who has a natural ability to emulate Michael and such a great chemistry with the camera.”
The 26-year-old himself is not new to the screen as he has appeared in several family-oriented projects over the years, such as The Jacksons: Next Generation and Tito Jackson’s 2021 music video “Love One Another.” However, this will be his Hollywood debut.
Jaafar Jackson feels honored to play his late uncle
Jaafar’s role as Michael Jackson has been endorsed by the King of Pop’s mother, Katherine who told The Hollywood Reporter that the 26-year-old replicates her son fully. “It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers.”
As a show of appreciation for the opportunity to take up the legendary role, Jaafar shared the news of his casting via Instagram on January 30 posting a black and white picture of himself taking the popular pose of the late singer. “I’m humbled and honored to bring my Uncle Michael’s story to life,” he wrote in the caption. “To all the fans all over the world, I’ll see you soon.”