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NEW YORK (AP) — Michael Jackson’s 26-year-old nephew, Jaafar Jackson, will play the King of Pop within the deliberate biopic “Michael” to be directed by Antoine Fuqua.
Lionsgate introduced Jackson’s casting Monday for the movie being produced by Oscar-winning “Bohemian Rhapsody” producer Graham King.
Jaafar Jackson is the second-youngest son of Jermaine Jackson, Michael Jackson’s brother. He’s put out music of his personal; in 2019, he launched his debut single, “Acquired Me Singing.” “Michael” will probably be his performing debut.
“I met Jaafar over two years in the past and was blown away by the best way he organically personifies the spirit and persona of Michael,” mentioned King in an announcement. “It was one thing so highly effective that even after conducting a worldwide search, it was clear that he’s the one individual to tackle this function.”
On Instagram, Fuqua shared a black-and-white {photograph} of Jaafar Jackson in character. Fuqua added in an announcement that Jaafar Jackson “has a pure capability to emulate Michael and such an incredible chemistry with the digital camera.”
On Twitter, Jaafar Jackson mentioned he’s “humbled and honored to carry my uncle Michael’s story to life.”
“Michael” will probably be a licensed portrait of the pop star, who died in 2009. The movie, scripted by “Gladiator” and “The Aviator” screenwriter John Logan, is being produced with the cooperation of the singer’s property.
“Jaafar embodies my son,” Katherine Jackson mentioned in an announcement. “It’s so great to see him keep it up the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers.”
“Michael” is to start capturing this yr.
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