The biopic “Michael” about Michael Jackson has become the inaugural biographical film to exceed $1 billion in global box office revenue, establishing a new standard for the genre.
The film has generated $629.8 million overseas and $371.8 million in North America, resulting in a global total of $1.001 billion, as per studio statistics.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, “Michael” has persistently shattered box office records since its premiere in April. The film premiered with $97 million in North America and $217 million globally, establishing a new opening weekend record for a musical biopic, exceeding the prior record established by “Straight Outta Compton.”
The film has surpassed “Bohemian Rhapsody,” which earned $911 million worldwide, to become the highest-grossing musical biopic in history. It has also eclipsed “Oppenheimer” to become the highest-grossing film based on a historical character.
This milestone signifies a historic accomplishment for Lionsgate, establishing “Michael” as the studio’s highest-grossing title and its inaugural picture to surpass the $1 billion mark. Before “Michael,” the studio’s most significant global successes were “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” and “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2.
Adam Fogelson, head of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, attributed the film’s success to audiences, characterizing it as a cultural phenomenon welcomed globally by moviegoers. His enthusiasm embodies the lasting legacy of one of the most prominent recording artists in history and illustrates the persistent vitality of the theatrical experience.
Michael” chronicles the life of the late King of Pop, detailing Jackson’s evolution from his formative years with the Jackson 5 to his status as one of the most impactful artists globally. Jaafar Jackson, the singer’s actual nephew, makes his acting debut in the titular role, while Colman Domingo and Nia Long depict Michael’s parents, Joe and Katherine Jackson.
Director Antoine Fuqua stated that attaining the billion-dollar milestone was a humbling accomplishment that demonstrated the commitment of the whole cast and crew. This significant milestone: Everyone who came together to celebrate one of history’s most illustrious painters deserves credit for this significant milestone. to everybody who united to commemorate one of the most illustrious painters in history. He expressed profound gratitude to viewers worldwide for their acceptance of the film and its narrative. Michael” is the second film produced in 2026 to exceed $1 billion in global box office revenue, following “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,” with “Toy Story 5” anticipated to join this category shortly.
