The actor is actually related to the late singer.
It has been confirmed that Jaafar Jackson - a nephew of Michael Jackson - is set to play the late singer in a movie about his life.
Earlier this month, JOE reported the news that a biopic, titled
Michael, about the 'Thriller' singer was in the works from director Antoine Fuqua (Emancipation, Training Day).
In a post on Twitter on Monday, Fuqua confirmed the casting of Jaafar Jackson as Michael before stating that the movie will explore "the journey of the man who became the King of Pop".
26-year-old Jaafar, who is also a singer, is the son of Jermaine Jackson - Michael's brother and bandmate in the Jackson 5.
"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," Jaafar said in a Twitter post confirming his involvement in the movie.
The biopic is coming from producer Graham King (Bohemian Rhapsody, The Departed) and writer John Logan (Gladiator, Skyfall).
Jaafar Jackson in 2014
It is also being co-produced by John Branca and John McClain, who are the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate.
On the impending production, King has said: "I first met the Jackson family in 1981 and I’m humbled to bring their legacy to the big screen.
"Sitting at Dodger Stadium watching the Victory Tour, I could never have imagined that nearly 38 years later I would get the privilege to be a part of this film."
As the movie is currently in pre-production, it is unlikely we'll see it arrive on the big screens before the end of 2024.
Jaafar Jackson in 2019 / Image via YouTube
Related links:
