Michael Jackson‘s 26-year-old nephew,Jaafar Jackson, will portray the King of Pop in the planned biopic ‘Michael‘ to be directed by Antoine Fuqua.
Lionsgate announced Jackson’s casting Monday for the film being produced by Oscar-winning ‘Bohemian Rhapsody‘ producer Graham King.
Jafar Jackson who has put out music of his own in 2019 is the second-youngest son of Jermaine Jackson, Michael’s brother.
He released his debut single, ‘Got Me Singing‘.
The nephew who is an actor, was selected for the role after a worldwide casting search was conducted.
Producer Graham King said: ‘It was clear that he is the only person to take on this role.’
He continued to say: ‘I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away by the way he organically personifies the spirit and personality of Michael.
‘It was something so powerful that even after conducting a worldwide search, it was clear that he is the only person to take on this role.
Also, the director, Fuqua said: ‘It’s incredibly exciting to watch Jaafar bring Michael to life.’
‘There was such a spiritual connection when I first met Jaafar, who has a natural ability to emulate Michael and such a great chemistry with the camera.’
Announcing Jaafar’s role in the biopic, the film’s movie director, Antoine Fuqua, shared a black and white picture of Jaafar’s transformation to Michael Jackson via Instagram on Monday, January 30, and wrote: ‘Proud to announce @jaafarjackson as Michael—the motion picture event that explores the journey of the man who became the King of Pop.’
Jaafar also posted the same picture and expressed his excitement regarding the project.
‘I’m humbled and honored to bring my Uncle Michael’s story to life. To all the fans all over the world, I’ll see you soon,’ Jafaar wrote.
In a press release, it was revealed that the biopic titled ‘Michael’, will detail the high and low points of Jackson’s life ‘including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.’
Michael Jackson’s mother, Katherine Jackson, also welcomed the development in a statement she said.
‘Jafaar embodies my son. It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers.’
Jaafar is the son of Michael’s older brother, Jermaine Jackson.
The planned biopic ‘Michael’ is to begin shooting this year.
