Michael, the biographical film about pop icon Michael Jackson, has become the highest-grossing biopic of all time after surpassing Oppenheimer at the global box office.
The film has earned $977 million worldwide, overtaking Christopher Nolan’s 2023 historical drama, which previously held the record with $975 million.
The achievement also cements Michael as the biggest musical biopic ever made, surpassing Bohemian Rhapsody, the 2018 film about Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, which earned $911 million globally. Released by Lionsgate in the United States and Universal internationally, the film has generated $607.2 million from overseas markets and $370.2 million domestically since its release in April.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, Michael follows the life and career of Michael Jackson, from his early years with the Jackson 5 to his rise as the “King of Pop.” The film stars Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s real-life nephew, in his acting debut, alongside Colman Domingo and Nia Long, who portray Jackson’s parents, Joe and Katherine.
The movie opened strongly, earning $97 million in the US and $217 million worldwide during its opening weekend, breaking the previous record for a musical biopic held by Straight Outta Compton. While critics have questioned the film’s decision to leave out some of the more controversial parts of Jackson’s life, its recreations of performances and music moments have helped drive audience interest. The success has also made Michael Lionsgate’s highest-grossing film ever, and the studio is reportedly considering additional projects exploring Jackson’s story.
