Johannesburg, 29 April 2026: MICHAEL, the highly anticipated biopic chronicling the legacy of Michael Jackson, has opened to extraordinary success at the South African cinema box office. Debuting at number one across Southern Africa, the film has delivered the biggest cinema opening of 2026 locally, while setting a new benchmark as the highest opening ever for a biopic in the country.
With an opening weekend exceeding R10 million and a powerful surge following the public holiday on Monday, the film’s cumulative gross has climbed to an impressive R16 million. This exceptional performance signals strong audience appetite and positions MICHAEL as one of the most compelling theatrical releases of the year.
A Global Icon, Reimagined for the Big Screen
Bringing to life the story of one of the most influential entertainers of all time, MICHAEL traces the rise of Michael Jackson from child star to global phenomenon. The film explores the defining moments, creative breakthroughs and personal complexities that shaped his journey, offering audiences an intimate look at the man behind the music.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by Graham King, the film combines cinematic scale with a deeply human narrative. A standout performance by Jaafar Jackson at its centre anchors the story, supported by meticulous attention to detail across production design, choreography and music, ensuring that the spirit of Jackson’s artistry is felt throughout.
With its record-breaking debut and sustained momentum, MICHAEL has established itself as the must-see cinema event of the year, capturing the imagination of audiences and reaffirming the big screen as the ultimate stage for iconic storytelling.
MICHAEL is now showing nationwide at NuMetro and Ster-Kinekor cinemas.