Michael Biopic Breaks Musical Biopic Box Office Record, Overtakes Bohemian Rhapsody

The biographical film Michael has become the highest-grossing musical biopic in cinema history, surpassing the record previously held by Bohemian Rhapsody.

The film, which chronicles the life and career of music icon Michael Jackson, has earned an impressive $911.9 million worldwide, edging past the $903.6 million global box office total achieved by the 2018 Freddie Mercury biopic.

Produced by Lionsgate, Michael has continued to attract audiences months after its theatrical release in April. Its earnings received a further boost following its June 12 release in Japan, opening the film to one of the world’s largest movie markets.

The movie had already made history earlier in its run after recording the biggest opening weekend ever for a musical biopic. It generated $97.2 million domestically and $121.6 million internationally during its debut weekend, bringing its global opening total to $218.8 million.

That figure comfortably surpassed the previous record set by Straight Outta Compton, which opened with $60.2 million in North America in 2015.

The film follows Jackson’s journey from his early years as a member of The Jackson 5 to his rise as one of the most successful and influential entertainers in music history. It also explores the personal challenges and controversies that shaped his life beyond the stage.

Jaafar Jackson stars as the King of Pop, supported by a cast that includes Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Miles Teller, Colman Domingo, Juliano Valdi and KeiLyn Durrel Jones.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, the project was produced by Graham King, John Branca and John McClain.

Although the film became available on Premium Video on Demand and other digital platforms on June 9, it has continued to perform strongly in cinemas worldwide. Physical DVD, Blu-ray and 4K UHD editions are scheduled for release on July 14.

Buoyed by its record-breaking success, the filmmakers are already developing a sequel that will further explore Jackson’s life, career and enduring legacy.