Who is Jaafar Jackson? meet Michael Jackson’s nephew bringing the king of pop to life in 'Michael'

Who is Jaafar Jackson

In Lionsgate's eagerly awaited biopic Michael, Jaafar Jackson will play his late uncle, the legendary Michael Jackson which is a role that feels both monumental and intensely personal.

The Antoine Fuqua-directed and Graham King-produced movie, which is scheduled for a global premiere on April 24, 2026, promises to both honour the King of Pop's brilliance and delve into the nuances of his remarkable life.

For Jaafar, this is more than just another acting role; it's an opportunity to honour his family's heritage and tell his uncle's story in a way that only someone who is genetically similar to him could.

The resemblance was striking when fans first saw him in the November 2025 teaser trailer. Jaafar appears to channel Michael with an authenticity that has already left fans in awe, from the fluid dance moves to the silent intensity in his eyes.

Jaafar's effortless presence also captivated director Antoine Fuqua, who told Variety, "Watching Jaafar bring Michael to life is incredibly exciting. When I first met Jaafar, who has a natural ability to mimic Michael and a wonderful rapport with the camera, there was such a spiritual connection."

Jaafar was born in July 1996 to Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza and Jermaine Jackson, Michael's brother and a member of the Jackson 5.

He has always been surrounded by music and performances. His voice has the same soulful warmth that made the Jacksons famous, and he started singing and dancing at the age of twelve.

Also Read: Michael trailer drops after delays as biopic promises to ‘humanise but not sanitise’ Jackson’s controversial life

His first single, "Got Me Singing," which was released in 2019, was a light-hearted, upbeat song that demonstrated his vocal prowess and effortless charm.

Jaafar has previously starred in family-oriented films, such as The Jacksons: Next Generation (2015) and the 2021 music video for Tito Jackson's "Love One Another," but Michael is making his acting debut. However, this position is undoubtedly his greatest advancement to date.

When Michael Jackson's mother, Katherine Jackson, expressed her unwavering support for her grandson, it was possibly the most heartwarming moment. She told The Hollywood Reporter, "It's amazing to see him continue the Jackson tradition of entertainers and performers."

"I'm humbled and honoured to bring my Uncle Michael's story to life," Jaafar wrote on Instagram to inform his followers of the news. I'll see you soon, fans everywhere.