Michael Jackson Biopic Earns N123.2 Million on Opening Weekend at Nigerian Cinemas

The 2026 Michael Jackson biopic Michael has grossed N123.2 million at the Nigerian box office in its first three days, reflecting strong local demand for the high-profile musical drama.

Opening with N111.6 million, the film climbed to a total of N123.2 million by the end of the weekend (April 24–26), according to preliminary box office data. This performance is notable, especially considering the film was not screened by Filmhouse Group, one of West Africa’s largest cinema chains.

This solid box office debut aligns with the film’s global success, as Michael recorded one of the biggest opening weekends for a biographical film.

Global Box Office Breakdown

Worldwide, Michael grossed approximately $217 million during its opening weekend, with $97.2 million from the U.S. and $121.6 million from international markets. Updated figures show the film’s total has risen to $218.8 million, surpassing earlier projections and making it the largest-ever opening for a music biopic.

The film has now overtaken Bohemian Rhapsody to become the highest-grossing music biopic worldwide. In North America, it exceeded expectations by nearly $30 million, surpassing Oppenheimer’s $80 million debut (not adjusted for inflation) and securing the largest-ever domestic opening for a biographical film.

Reports also indicate that Michael recouped 110% of its $200 million production budget within 48 hours of release, positioning it among the most expensive biopics ever made due to extensive reshoots.

About the Michael Jackson Biopic

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, Michael covers the life of pop icon Michael Jackson, from his early years with the Jackson 5 in the 1960s to his peak solo career in the late 1980s. The film stars Jaafar Jackson, the pop legend’s nephew, in his debut role as adult Michael, alongside Juliano Krue Valdi as the younger version.

Supporting cast members include Nia Long, Colman Domingo, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, Jessica Sula, and Mike Myers. Production began after rights to Jackson’s life story were acquired by producer Graham King in 2019, with Lionsgate officially announcing the project in 2022. Filming took place from January to May 2024, after delays caused by the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike.

The film underwent significant revisions due to legal concerns that led to the removal of references to the 1993 child abuse allegations. This resulted in a reworked third act and additional reshoots in mid-2025.

Despite its commercial success, Michael has faced mixed-to-negative reviews from critics. While Jaafar Jackson’s portrayal of his uncle has been praised, some critics have criticised the film’s narrative for being overly sanitised.

After premiering at the Berlin Film Festival on April 10, 2026, Michael had its U.S. debut on April 24, 2026. As of April 27, it ranks among the top six highest-grossing films of 2026, confirming its status as both a commercial hit and a cultural conversation starter.