Why Michael omits sexual abuse allegations: Estate’s $200 million ‘error’ explained

The biopic Michael, based on pop icon Michael Jackson, is performing strongly at the box office despite largely negative reviews. The film is projected to open to around $65 million in North America and has already earned over $30 million overseas.

While audiences have responded positively to the musical, critics have taken issue with what they describe as a heavily sanitised portrayal—most notably the complete omission of the sexual abuse allegations that shadowed Jackson’s later life.

Criticism over a ‘sanitised’ portrayal

Starring Jaafar Jackson, the film traces Jackson’s journey from his early days with the Jackson 5 to his solo superstardom following landmark albums like Off the Wall and Thriller.

It explores his fraught relationship with his father and key moments such as the 1983 accident during a commercial shoot. However, the film makes no reference to the allegations of sexual abuse that emerged in the 1990s, involving minors who reportedly spent time at his Neverland Ranch.

Critics argue that this omission significantly softens Jackson’s legacy, particularly as the project has the backing of his estate and family.

Legal hurdle forced changes

According to a report by the Associated Press, director Antoine Fuqua and producer Graham King had initially planned to address the allegations.

However, those plans were scrapped due to a legal complication. An earlier agreement between the Jackson estate and one of the plaintiffs reportedly barred the use of those claims for commercial purposes. The issue surfaced after the scenes had already been filmed, forcing extensive reshoots.

Studio Lionsgate is said to have spent millions on reworking the film, pushing the total budget to around $200 million.

Sequel already in discussion

The film concludes with a recreation of Jackson’s iconic Bad tour performance from 1988, followed by the message: “His story continues.”

That closing note has fuelled speculation about a sequel, which has now been confirmed to be in development. Lionsgate studio chairman Adam Fogelson said the filmmakers intend to explore more of Jackson’s life, depending on audience response.

A follow-up, tentatively aimed for a 2027 release, is expected to delve into the controversies of the 1990s and Jackson’s struggles with pain medication after his accident.

Jackson died in June 2009 at the age of 50 from an overdose of the anaesthetic propofol, just weeks before a planned concert series.

How future instalments will address the more contentious aspects of his life—particularly without referencing the abuse allegations—remains an open question.