E-Paper
Sign In
'Give Jaafar Jackson an Oscar': Farah Khan praises Michael Jackson biopic
The film, titled 'Michael', opened to largely unfavourable critical reception
- PUBLISHED: Mon 27 Apr 2026, 2:07 PM
- By:
- ANI
The newly released biopic on global pop icon Michael Jackson has sparked a sharp divide between critics and supporters, even as filmmaker Farah Khan has publicly come out in strong defence of the film, urging audiences to ignore negative reviews and experience it in theatres.
The film, titled Michael, was released worldwide on April 24 and opened to largely unfavourable critical reception.
Recommended For You
Despite the backlash, Khan took to Instagram to share an old photograph of herself with Michael Jackson and posted a note backing the project and its lead actor, Jaafar Jackson.
In her post, she wrote: "Go watch MICHEAL!! And someone pls give @jaafarjackson the Oscar next year!"
She later reshared the post on her Instagram Story, adding, "This film is for us fans and not for the critics. Loved Michael."
Reactions online have been mixed. While several fans echoed excitement over Jaafar Jackson's portrayal, others argue that the film does not fully engage with complex aspects of Michael Jackson's life, including issues related to race and personal challenges.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by Lionsgate, Michael features Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson's nephew, in the lead role.
The ensemble cast also includes Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, along with Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, and Larenz Tate.
The biopic's release has reignited discussion around Michael Jackson's legacy, which remains polarised due to his global musical influence and long-standing legal controversies.
While fans continue to celebrate his artistic impact, critics have pointed to the complexity of portraying his life on screen.