January 31, 2024
Nia Long Cast As Michael Jackson’s Mother In New Biopic
Nia Long is set to star alongside Colman Domingo in the new Michael Jackson biopic as they portray the King of Pop's parents.
Nia Long is set to star alongside Colman Domingo in the new Michael Jackson biopic as they portray the King of Pop’s parents.
“The Best Man” star joins the Antoine Fuqua-directed biopic “Michael” as Jackson family matriarch Katherine Jackson, Deadline reports. The Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International film is set for an April 2025 global release.
The 4x NAACP Image Award winner will feature alongside Jaafar Jackson, the King of Pop’s real-life nephew who will portray his iconic uncle, and 2024 Best Actor Oscar nominee Colman Domingo, who will portray Katherine’s husband, Joe. The highly-anticipated biopic is written by three-time Oscar nominee John Logan.
“Katherine Jackson is an incredible pillar of strength and grace for the entire Jackson family. As a mother, she was selfless and endured forces beyond her control yet still managed to help build a legacy beyond measure,” Long said of securing the role.
“I am honored to bring her voice to the screen and share Michael Jackson’s story with audiences everywhere.”
Fuqua, best known for directing award-winning films like “Training Day” and “The Equalizer” franchise, praised Long’s addition to the forthcoming film.
“Nia has delivered iconic performances throughout her career. I’ve been a fan for a long time because her characters stay with you,” he said.
“I’m excited to now work alongside her as she pours all of that into Katherine Jackson: a woman who was the glue, the rock, and the heart of the Jackson family during its best and its most turbulent times.”
Long’s casting comes one week after Domingo’s casting as Joe Jackson was announced.
“It’s exciting to do it with Jaafar,” Domingo told Variety. “Jermaine Jackson’s son is playing Michael, and he is breathtaking, and I think Graham King, the producer, has assembled an incredible cast.”
“The Color Purple” star went on to tease how the biopic will highlight “the complicated soul of the legendary Michael Jackson as well as his impact on music and culture as a global icon.” Production for the film kicked off on Monday, Jan. 22, according to Jackson’s nephew.
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