LaToya Jackson Says Janet ‘Kindly Declined’ Role in ‘Michael’ Biopic
*LaToya Jackson has confirmed that her sister Janet Jackson chose not to participate in the upcoming biographical film about their late brother, saying the decision was respected by the family despite hopes for broader involvement. Speaking at the film’s premiere, LaToya explained that Janet had been invited to be part of the project but ultimately […] The post LaToya Jackson Says Janet ‘Kindly Declined’ Role in ‘Michael’ Biopic appeared first on EURweb | Black News, Culture, Entertainment & More.
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*LaToya Jackson has confirmed that her sister Janet Jackson chose not to participate in the upcoming biographical film about their late brother, saying the decision was respected by the family despite hopes for broader involvement.
Speaking at the film’s premiere, LaToya explained that Janet had been invited to be part of the project but ultimately stepped away. “I wish everybody was in the movie,” she said, Variety reports. Jackson added, “She was asked and she kindly declined so you have to respect her wishes.”
The film centers on the life of Michael Jackson, with his nephew Jaafar Jackson portraying him on screen. The production also features portrayals of key family members and figures who shaped his personal and professional journey, bringing together a wide ensemble cast.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, the project takes a broad look at Jackson’s life, balancing performance history with personal perspective. The creative team positions the film as a character-driven portrait that moves between his early experiences and later success.
“I have so much respect and love for Janet, but you know it’s OK. She’s supportive of Jaafar and that’s what matters,” Fuqua said at the premiere.
As for Michael’s daughter Paris, she told her social media followers that the movie has “a lot of inaccuracies” and “a lot of full blown lies.” She said in the video, “The film panders to a very specific section of my dad’s fandom that still lives in the fantasy. And they’re going to be happy with it.”
“MICHAEL” is produced by Graham King, John Branca, and John McClain, and is designed to present both the triumphs and challenges that defined Jackson’s life. The film focuses on his artistry, personal struggles, and lasting cultural influence, offering a wide-ranging depiction of his legacy.
The cast includes Juliano Valdi as a younger Michael Jackson, with additional roles played by Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, Colman Domingo, and KeiLyn Durrel Jones. The film is scheduled for a U.S. release on April 24.
LaToya also spoke positively about Jaafar Jackson’s performance, praising his ability to capture his uncle’s presence and noting the emotional impact of seeing him step into the role. Watch the clip below.
La Toya Jackson says Jaafar Jackson’s performance in #MichaelMovie is so convincing, she and her family would think they were “watching Mike.” pic.twitter.com/40bCXQAS7U
— Variety (@Variety) April 21, 2026
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The post LaToya Jackson Says Janet ‘Kindly Declined’ Role in ‘Michael’ Biopic appeared first on EURweb | Black News, Culture, Entertainment & More.
