The new Michael Jackson biopic has sparked global conversation not just for its star-making turn by Jaafar Jackson, but for its deliberate creative choice: the film concludes before diving into the most controversial chapter of the King of Pop’s life. For viewers wondering what happened next after the credits roll, here’s a breakdown of the era the biopic skips, and how it shaped Jackson’s final decades.
Why Does the Michael Jackson Biopic End Before the Controversial Chapter?
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the upcoming Michael biopic (set for a 2025 release, with early screenings already generating buzz) focuses exclusively on Jackson’s early life, Jackson 5 stardom, and his solo peak through the late 1980s. The creative team confirmed the film wraps before the 1993 child sexual abuse allegations that upended Jackson’s public image.
Producers say the goal was to center Jackson’s unmatched artistry and creative genius, rather than re-litigating legal battles that have been covered extensively in documentaries and news reports. "We wanted to celebrate the music first," Fuqua said in a recent press statement. "That’s the legacy that matters most to millions of fans."
What Counts as Michael Jackson’s Most Controversial Chapter?
When most fans refer to Jackson’s controversial era, they point to two overlapping periods: the 1993 allegations, and the 2005 criminal trial that followed. The Michael Jackson biopic skips both, ending as Jackson prepares to release his 1991 album Dangerous.
The 1993 Allegations
In August 1993, 13-year-old Jordan Chandler accused Jackson of repeated sexual abuse. The case triggered a months-long criminal investigation, a civil settlement (which Jackson’s team stressed was not an admission of guilt), and intense media scrutiny that followed Jackson for the rest of his life. Jackson addressed the claims in his 1995 primetime interview with Oprah Winfrey, denying all allegations and calling them "totally false."
The 2005 Trial
A decade later, Jackson faced a 2005 criminal trial on charges related to allegations from a different accuser, Gavin Arvizo. After a 4-month trial, Jackson was acquitted of all 14 charges. While he was cleared legally, the coverage further fractured public opinion of the star, with tabloid stories about his changing appearance and reclusive behavior dominating headlines.
What Happened Next in Michael Jackson’s Life and Career?
Jackson’s post-1993 career was marked by both massive musical success and mounting personal challenges. Here’s a timeline of key events:
- 1995: Released HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I, a double album featuring hits like "Scream" (a duet with sister Janet Jackson) and "You Are Not Alone." The album debuted at #1 in 25 countries.
- 1996–1999: Launched the HIStory World Tour, his final global concert tour, while navigating two high-profile marriages: to Lisa Marie Presley (1994–1996) and Debbie Rowe (1996–1999), with whom he had two children, Prince and Paris.
- 2001: Released Invincible, his final studio album released during his lifetime. The album faced label disputes and low promotion, but still sold 8 million copies worldwide.
- 2003: Premiered the documentary Living with Michael Jackson, where he faced criticism for admitting to sharing his bed with children. This interview preceded his 2005 trial.
- 2009: Announced the This Is It concert residency in London, his planned comeback tour. He died on June 25, 2009, at age 50 from acute propofol intoxication.
Michael Jackson’s Legacy Today
Decades after his death, Jackson’s musical impact remains unmatched. He is the best-selling solo artist of all time, with over 350 million records sold globally. His 1982 album Thriller still holds the record for best-selling album in history, with over 66 million copies sold.
His philanthropic work is also a core part of his legacy: Jackson donated an estimated $300 million to charity during his lifetime, supporting children’s hospitals, AIDS research, and disaster relief efforts.
However, the controversies the Michael Jackson biopic skips remain a point of debate for fans and critics. A 2019 HBO documentary renewed public discussion of the 1993 allegations, leading some radio stations to pull his music temporarily, though fan support has remained steadfast.
Will a Sequel Cover the Missing Chapters?
As of 2024, there are no official plans for a sequel to the Michael Jackson biopic. The Jackson estate, which co-produced the film, has not commented on potential follow-ups. Some industry insiders speculate a second film could explore his later years, but any project would face significant creative and legal hurdles.
The choice to end the Michael Jackson biopic before his most controversial chapter has divided audiences: some appreciate the focus on his artistry, while others argue a full portrait requires addressing the allegations. Either way, understanding what happened next gives fans a more complete picture of the King of Pop’s complex, trailblazing, and deeply flawed life.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.