Michael (2025) — Jackson Biopic is a Box Office Hit in India
Michael Jackson's biographical drama Michael has taken the Indian box office by storm. Directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day, The Equalizer) and starring Jaafar Jackson (Michael Jackson's nephew) in the lead role, the musical biopic emerged as the third Hollywood hit of 2026 in India, grossing Rs 41 crore in just 9 days of its theatrical run. It has more than tripled the previous best for a music-based Hollywood film in India.
About the Film
Michael is a biographical musical drama that chronicles the life and legacy of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. The film features Jaafar Jackson in his acting debut as his uncle, a casting choice that has drawn widespread acclaim for its uncanny resemblance and vocal authenticity. The film is directed by Antoine Fuqua, known for his work on Training Day, The Magnificent Seven, and Emancipation.
The biopic covers Jackson's childhood with the Jackson 5, his rise to global superstardom, the making of landmark albums like Thriller and Bad, and his lasting impact on music and pop culture. Fans of Bohemian Rhapsody and Rocketman will find this biopic equally compelling — it strikes a similar balance between celebrating the music and honestly portraying the man behind it. The film has been described as a celebratory yet honest portrait of an artist whose influence transcends generations.
Michael India Box Office Performance
According to box office tracking sources, Michael has delivered a stellar performance in India that few Hollywood music biopics have managed before:
Rs 41.25 crore gross in 9 days — making it the third Hollywood hit of 2026 in India. The film recorded a 13 per cent hike on its second Saturday over its opening day, showing strong word-of-mouth and repeat viewing. It is projected to cross Rs 46 crore by the end of its second weekend, with an eye on the Rs 60-70 crore mark over its full theatrical run. Given that Hollywood films with good reception tend to have long runs in India, Michael has strong legs ahead of it.
The previous two Hollywood hits of 2026 were also strong performers, but Michael has set a new benchmark for music-based Hollywood films in India. For context, the previous best for a music-based Hollywood film in India was Rs 13 crore from Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour — Michael has more than tripled that figure in just nine days.
Where to Watch Michael in Indian Cinemas
Michael is currently playing across PVR, INOX, and Cinepolis multiplexes in all major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Pune. The film is available in English with select screenings offering Hindi-dubbed versions for wider accessibility. If you are a fan of pop music history or simply want to experience a compelling biographical drama on the big screen, this is a must-watch in theatres.
Magicpin members can save on PVR and INOX tickets for Michael and other films currently showing. Check the latest offers before booking your show.
Cast and Crew
Director: Antoine Fuqua
Lead Actor: Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson
Studio: Lionsgate / Universal Pictures
Genre: Musical Biopic, Drama
The film is produced by Graham King (Bohemian Rhapsody, The Departed) and John Branca and John McClain as co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate. Graham King's track record with Bohemian Rhapsody set high expectations, and Michael appears to be following a similar trajectory — becoming a word-of-mouth hit that sustains its box office momentum over multiple weeks.
FAQs
Q: Who plays Michael Jackson in the 2025 biopic?
A: Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson's real-life nephew, makes his acting debut as the King of Pop in the film Michael. His resemblance to his uncle has been widely praised.
Q: Is the Michael Jackson biopic a hit in India?
A: Yes, Michael grossed Rs 41.25 crore in 9 days in India and has been declared a Clean Hit. It is the third Hollywood hit of 2026 in India after two earlier releases.
Q: Where can I watch Michael in Indian cinemas?
A: Michael is playing at PVR, INOX, and Cinepolis multiplexes across all major Indian cities. Book via magicpin to save on tickets.
Q: Who directed the Michael Jackson biopic?
A: The film is directed by Antoine Fuqua, known for Training Day, The Equalizer series, and The Magnificent Seven.
Q: How much did Michael earn at the Indian box office?
A: The film grossed Rs 41.25 crore in 9 days and is on track for Rs 60 crore or more over its full run in India.
Also find cinemas in: Mumbai | Bangalore | Delhi | Hyderabad | Pune.
