He may have left the world over a decade ago, but the King of Pop is still ruling the charts. Antoine Fuqua’s Michael , the much-anticipated biopic on Michael Jackson, is proving that star power doesn’t fade—even after controversy, criticism, and complicated legacies.
In just four days, the film has moonwalked past 218.83millionglobally∗∗andisnowinchingtoward∗∗218.83millionglobally∗∗andisnowinchingtoward∗∗220 million. In India, it’s almost touching the Rs 20 crore mark. Not bad for a film that critics can’t seem to make up their minds about.
Let’s break down the numbers, the noise, and what this means for the biopic’s run.
🎬 Global Box Office: Almost $220 Million and Counting
As of April 28, 2026, Michael has earned approximately $218.83 million worldwide—roughly ₹2,065 crore in Indian rupees.
According to Box Office Mojo, the film currently sits at No. 6 worldwide among 2026 releases. It’s trailing behind massive blockbusters like:
- The Super Mario Galaxy Movie – $831 million
- Pegasus 3 – $648 million
- Project Hail Mary – $613 million
- Hoppers – $370 million
- Wuthering Heights – $241 million
But here’s the thing—Michael is expected to glide past Wuthering Heights in just a few days. For a biographical drama facing mixed reviews and protest, that’s a serious flex.
🇺🇸 North America: Strong Start, Gradual Dip
In the US and Canada, Michael opened with a bang:
- Friday: $39.29 million
- Saturday: $32.46 million
- Sunday: $25.45 million
That brings its domestic total to $97.20 million (around ₹917 crore). Yes, collections are dipping, but the opening weekend alone proved that fans still want to see Michael Jackson’s story on the big screen—even if the film has its flaws.
🇮🇳 India Box Office: Nearing Rs 20 Crore
Over in India, the response has been surprisingly steady. As of Monday, Michael has collected Rs 18.75 crore net, with Monday alone adding Rs 2.25 crore.
Yes, that’s a 61.54% drop from Sunday’s Rs 5.85 crore—but weekday dips are normal for any Hollywood release in India.
Monday Occupancy Breakdown in India:
| Showtime | Occupancy % |
|---|---|
| Morning | 11.11% |
| Afternoon | 20.11% |
| Evening | 22.11% |
| Night | 23.44% |
| Overall | 19.19% |
For a Hollywood biopic with no Indian stars and heavy English dialogue, these numbers are actually quite solid. Expect the film to comfortably cross Rs 20 crore by Tuesday or Wednesday.
🎤 Who’s in the Film?
One of the biggest talking points is the casting. Jaafar Jackson—Michael’s real-life nephew—plays the lead. And honestly? The resemblance is breathtaking. Jaafar doesn’t just imitate MJ; he embodies him.
The supporting cast is equally impressive:
- Nia Long
- KeiLyn Durrel Jones
- Laura Harrier
- Jessica Sula
- Mike Myers (yes, in a serious role)
- Miles Teller
- Colman Domingo
With a production budget of $155 million, this is one of the most expensive music biopics ever made.
⚠️ The Elephant in the Room: Mixed Reviews & Controversy
Let’s address what every headline is whispering about.
Michael has received mixed-to-negative reviews from critics. While many praised Jaafar Jackson’s performance and Fuqua’s direction, others criticized the film for omitting serious allegations that surrounded Michael Jackson’s later life.
Some reviewers called it a “sanitized tribute” rather than a “truthful biopic.”
But here’s the reality check: audiences are still showing up. Fans of the King of Pop seem less interested in controversy and more interested in celebrating the music, the magic, and the man who gave us Thriller, Billie Jean, and Smooth Criminal.
🧠 What This Means for the Film’s Future
Despite the criticism, Michael is far from a flop. In fact:
- It’s already earned back its production budget globally.
- It’s outperforming many original Hollywood releases this year.
- In India, it’s holding better than most Western biopics.
Will it cross 300million?Probably.Willitevertouch300million?Probably.Willitevertouch500 million? That depends on word-of-mouth and repeat audiences.
But one thing’s for sure—Michael Jackson’s legacy is too big to be brought down by bad reviews.
🎧 Final Take: Should You Watch It?
If you’re a MJ fan – Absolutely. Jaafar Jackson alone is worth the ticket price.
If you’re a cinema lover – Watch it for Fuqua’s direction and the musical sequences.
If you’re looking for a tell-all documentary – This isn’t that movie.
But as a theatrical experience? Michael delivers rhythm, emotion, and spectacle.
Have you watched Michael yet?
Drop your review in the comments below. Love it or hate it, the King of Pop is still making us talk.
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