Lionsgate’s film Michael went through some major changes before hitting theaters. Director Antoine Fuqua and producer Graham King ended up with a big payday thanks to reshoots that revised the movie’s third act.
Originally, parts of the film included Michael Jackson’s struggles with child sexual abuse allegations. However, a legal agreement from a prior settlement prohibited the depiction of one accuser in commercial projects. This led to extensive reshoots, funded by Jackson’s estate, to reshape the narrative.
According to a recent report from Bloomberg, Fuqua was initially set to earn $10 million, while King was slated for $6 million for their roles. After the reshoots, Fuqua secured another $15 million and King received an additional $10 million. A spokesperson remarked that King dedicated seven years to this project, and the schedule adjustments for reshoots delayed other commitments.
The film was initially scheduled for April 2025 but postponed to April 2026 to accommodate the changes. Now, it ends in 1988, well before Jackson’s death in 2009, leaving room for future stories about his life, including a potential sequel.
Despite mixed reviews—currently sitting at 38% on Rotten Tomatoes—the film has still performed well at the box office, with domestic projections between $94 million and $100 million, and global earnings nearing $200 million. This success comes even amidst criticism from some, including James Safechuck, who addressed supporters of survivors of childhood abuse in a recent video.
Another twist? Actress Kat Graham’s scenes as Diana Ross were also cut due to legal issues surrounding the film, further illustrating the challenges faced in its production.
As both a cultural icon and a controversial figure, Michael Jackson’s legacy continues to spark discussions across social media platforms and beyond. The film’s journey reflects not just Jackson’s life but also the evolving conversation around accountability and representation in entertainment.
For a deeper understanding of how these factors impact film production and box office success, check out more insights from The Hollywood Reporter.
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