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What to Know About Jaafar Jackson, Who’s Playing His Uncle Michael Jackson in the Upcoming Biopic
- Angela Tam
- 16 hours ago
- 3 min read
Jaafar Jackson, nephew of Michael Jackson, will play the King of Pop in the highly anticipated 2026 biopic Michael.
The film promises an intimate look at Michael Jackson’s life, from The Jackson 5 to his global solo stardom.
Jaafar, a singer and performer, took over two years to secure the role, bringing both talent and personal insight to the portrayal.
The announcement that Jaafar Jackson will portray Michael Jackson in the upcoming biopic Michael sent ripples through the entertainment world. The King of Pop’s life is already deeply ingrained in popular culture, but having his own nephew step into the role adds a rare layer of authenticity. Jaafar’s career, family background, and approach to the role make him one of the most talked-about rising stars of 2026. Here’s everything you need to know about him.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by Graham King, Michael charts the extraordinary life of Michael Jackson — from his childhood stardom with The Jackson 5 to his record-breaking solo career. The film promises not only a retrospective of Jackson’s music but also an intimate look at the personal struggles that shaped his life. In an age where music biopics often struggle to capture both myth and reality, casting a family member like Jaafar Jackson brings an unprecedented sense of credibility and nuance to the story.
Who Are Jaafar Jackson’s Parents?
Jaafar Jeremiah Jackson was born on July 25, 1996, in Los Angeles, California, to Jermaine Jackson, former member of The Jackson 5, and Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza, who has Colombian heritage. Raised in a household deeply immersed in music and performance, Jaafar was exposed to the entertainment world from a young age. Despite his parents’ divorce, Jermaine’s influence and guidance provided the foundation for Jaafar’s artistic development, preparing him for a career that would eventually merge music and acting.
How Is Jaafar Related to Michael Jackson?
Jaafar is Michael Jackson’s nephew via Michael's older brother Jermaine. Growing up surrounded by music, dance, and showmanship, he experienced first-hand the environment that shaped one of the world’s most iconic performers. Jaafar has spoken about childhood memories at Neverland Ranch, highlighting how his personal connection to Michael informs his portrayal and adds authenticity to a role that carries immense public expectation.
“I remember just growing up, and we would have family time,” he told The Independent. “Michael would come over to where I was growing up ... and we’d have some days where we’d all get together, play family game day."
“We’d have wonderful times at Neverland and just playing hide-and-go-seek, getting as much candy, going on rides, watching movies. It was all fun," he added.
What Does Jaafar Jackson Do for Work?
Before taking on the role of Michael, Jaafar was steadily building his own career in entertainment. He began singing and dancing at the age of twelve, according to Deadline. He eventually released singles such as Got Me Singing, showcasing his own soulful style. He appeared on television, including Living with the Jacksons, and participated in music videos, refining his on-camera presence. Michael represents Jaafar’s feature film debut, a high-profile opportunity that leverages both his talent and his heritage.
How Did Jaafar Jackson Get the Role of Michael?
Casting Jaafar Jackson was the result of a meticulous, two-year process. While being part of the Jackson family gave him an intimate understanding of Michael’s persona, the production required him to demonstrate his ability to embody Michael’s movement, vocal style, and stage presence.
"I never dreamed to be an actor or even thought of playing him. But I knew it was a calling," Jaafar, 29, said in a behind-the-scenes video. "Embodying Michael, I really had to earn the role and prove to the filmmakers that I was capable of becoming Michael. Essentially it was starting at the roots and finding the authenticity."
Who Is Jaafar Jackson Dating?
Jackson has been in a relationship with singer Maddie Simpson for years, with the couple going public at a musical celebration for Quincy Jones in 2018 — a fitting debut for two people whose lives are so deeply intertwined with music history. But their story started even earlier. According to Simpson's Instagram, the couple have been together since 2016. One of their most memorable public appearances together was at The Night Event for Brunello Cucinelli in December 2024.
The Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, is scheduled for release in theatres and IMAX on April 24, 2026.