Michael Jackson’s Neverland theme park is currently undergoing renovation as the much-anticipated biopic Michael is being filmed. The late singer’s 2,700-acre ranch near Santa Barbara is famously named after the home of folklore hero Peter Pan.
During his lifetime, Michael lived in Neverland from 1988 to 2005, however, the location was known for making controversial headlines, especially after a search warrant was executed at the property when Michael was charged with multiple counts of molesting a minor.
Michael Jackson moved out of Neverland after being acquitted
The legal chaos left Michael averse to his longtime home which he moved out of, and after his death, his family intended to turn it into a pilgrimage place for fans. However, billionaire businessman Ron Burkle bought Neverland for $22million in 2020, at a price four times less than its listing.
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Recent photos of the infamous park show colorful and fun rides including a circus tent, a huge Ferris wheel, fairground rides, a red train, and a merry-go-round. Behind-the-scene snaps from the biopic set show the Californian ranch buzzing with actors and extras playing balloon sellers and food stall attendees.
The Antoine Fuqua-directed movie based on Michael’s life and career was written by John Logan and is due for release next April. According to the film’s synopsis, Michael “will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became the King of Pop.”
“The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic, cinematic scale — from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, exemplified by his most iconic performances,” the statement further reads.
The iconic singer’s twenty-seven-year-old nephew Jaafar will be playing him as well, joining the rest of the cast to give an anticipating audience “an inside look into one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.”
“It’s incredibly exciting to watch Jaafar bring Michael to life,” director Antoine told Variety. “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.”