The highly anticipated motion picture Michael will be available in theaters for limited early-access screenings April 22, 2026, Lionsgate announced Tuesday. The film opens nationwide April 24.
The early-access screenings will be presented exclusively in premium formats, including IMAX and Dolby, offering enhanced picture and sound quality. The one-night-only showings will take place April 22 — two days before the film’s nationwide opening. A limited number of showtimes will be available.
Tickets for the special screenings go on sale at 9 a.m. PT / noon ET Wednesday through advance ticketing sites.
Tickets for the film’s general release will go on sale at a later date.
Kevin Grayson, president of worldwide distribution for the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, said the film is designed as a major theatrical event for fans of Michael Jackson.
“For Michael Jackson’s fans, Michael is the cinematic event they’ve been waiting for — the movie captures both the soul and the spectacle of the boy who became the King of Pop,” Grayson said. “These early-access screenings, in IMAX and premium large formats, will immerse audiences in the electrifying performances and bring the power of Michael Jackson’s iconic music to life. It’s the perfect way to be the first to see the movie.”
In recognition of the anniversary of Billie Jean debuting on MTV, Lionsgate partnered with Paramount Advertising’s branded content studio, Paramount Media Labs, to announce the early-access tickets. The campaign featured the iconic MTV News desk and an appearance by MTV VJ Bill Bellamy.
Jackson’s “Billie Jean” short film was the first music video by a Black artist to receive heavy rotation on MTV, marking a pivotal moment that helped reshape music, culture and representation.
Michael is a cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the world’s most influential artists. The film follows Jackson’s journey from his early discovery as the lead singer of The Jackson 5 to the visionary performer whose creative ambition fueled his rise to become one of the biggest entertainers in the world. The film highlights moments from his life offstage as well as iconic performances from his early solo career.
The film stars Jaafar Jackson in his feature film debut portraying his uncle, Michael Jackson. The cast also includes Nia Long, Juliano Valdi, KeiLyn Durrel Jones, Laura Harrier, Miles Teller and Colman Domingo.
The film is directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by three-time Academy Award nominee John Logan. Producers include Graham King, John Branca and John McClain.
Michael will be distributed domestically by Lionsgate and internationally by Universal Pictures, except in Japan, where it will be distributed by Kino Films in association with Lionsgate.
