The highly anticipated Michael biopic will be in theatres this April, and as a huge fan of the Jacksons, I am so excited, just like fans all around the world. Jaafar Jackson, the nephew of Michael Jackson, plays him in the movie, and here I'm going to share my thoughts on why he is the best person for the role.
First, here's a little introduction to Jaafar. He was born on 25th July 1996 to Jermaine Jackson and Alejandra Oaziaza in Los Angeles. He is a singer and dancer and released his debut singer 'Got Me Sing' in 2019, another single 'Confused' in 2020, and featured on Tito Jackson's song 'Love One Another' in 2021. The music video for Got Me singing was filmed in Brazil. I downloaded Jaafar's first single as soon as it was released and stayed up late watching a livestream when he was at an event in LA.
I've always believed he has something special, and seeing him star as his uncle feels so right. There have been many movies and documentaries about Michael Jackson over the years, and the actors who have played the legendary King of Pop did a genuinely impressive job with what they were given, but I think no one can truly portray him like another Jackson can. It's different having a relative step into that role. It's more than acting. It's a lived memory, family resemblance, inherited mannerisms, and a kind of authenticity that no outsider could fully reach,
In an interview with Jaafar and his siblings a few years ago, they said that all the family members have a similar sound, and it's true. They share a certain vocal DNA, not just in tone, but also the phrasing, the softness and the emotional warmth. They all talk so softly, and I get the feeling no one in the family ever shouts. I watched a Jackson family reality show, and in one of the episodes Taj, Taryll, and TJ -
3T - were talking about recording songs, they got very frustrated with each other and argued, but still didn't yell at each other.
Michael had the same softness too - gentle voice, laugh, and presence. You see it reflected in the younger generation, including Jaafar. He's calm, measured, and respectful - even when he's at a huge event, being interviewed on red carpets. I'm sure he gets nervous sometimes, like everyone does, but he stays so calm. His gentle nature is not copied or forced. Just naturally reminiscent of a legacy carried forward. When I close my eyes and listen to hi, I hear Michael.
Jaafar won't just be singing and dancing in this movie. He will be acting out parts of Michael's life, including the heavy and emotional ones. There was always some controversy surrounding Michael Jackson, which is still talked about today. The film touches on a personal and complex life, and the family and cast have to be extremely careful. Every word in interviews can be scrutinized by millions of fans, critics and tabloids looking for a story. Jaafar would have lived through all the controversy. He has grown up seeing the media scrutiny, being followed by paparazzi, hearing the stories, and experiencing the highs and lows of being part of that family. So the emotions he shows on screen won't just be acting. They will be real memories, understanding, grief, frustration and joy - all filtered through someone who experienced the world Michael lived in. That authenticity is something no one else could replicate.
He has been surrounded by the music, the history, and the family stories. He knows the weight of the legacy he is carrying, and you can see the respect and care in the way he approaches his music and performances. He is continuing the spirit of what Michael created, in a way only a Jackson could.
That instinct to protect the legacy is natural for him - and it shows a lot of maturity and love for his family.
Having Jaafar step into the role of Michael makes the biopic feel safe in the best sense. The story will be told with heart and authenticity. He truly is the best person for it. I know his family most be so proud of him, and the fans are excited to see him on the big screen.
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