The Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” had a stunning opening weekend, bringing in $97 million at the North American box office. This record-breaking figure made it the biggest opening for a biopic in history and one of the largest for 2026 so far.
On a global scale, the film grossed about $217 million, exceeding expectations significantly. Analysts initially predicted it would earn between $65 million and $75 million. It is now the second-biggest debut of the year, only behind “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,” which earned $131.7 million.
However, critical reception was far less enthusiastic. Critics rated the film at just 38% on Rotten Tomatoes, suggesting a disconnect between the box office success and critical approval. Surprisingly, it scored an impressive 97% from audiences, along with an A- rating on CinemaScore. This shows that while critics may not have loved it, many viewers did.
The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, had a hefty production budget of around $150 million. To break even, it needs to make about $500 million. This pressure has caused some controversy: after scrapping a planned ending that referenced allegations against Jackson, the filmmakers had to conduct extensive reshoots, costing millions.
Recent conversations about the biopic have sparked discussions on social media, revealing a mix of nostalgia and debate over Jackson’s legacy. Some fans are excited to see their idol portrayed on the big screen, while others are concerned about how his complex life is represented.
Interestingly, Jackson’s estate has generated over $3 billion since his passing in 2009, showcasing his lasting impact on music and pop culture. The biopic attempts to share that legacy, but the differing opinions highlight the challenge of capturing a figure with such a tumultuous life.
For those interested, you can read more about the financial ramifications of the biopic and its portrayal from sources like Forbes.
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