Category: Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson Biopic Starring His Nephew Finally Gets Release Date

Jaafar Jackson, nephew of the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson, has been cast in the highly anticipated biopic Michael. Jafaar is set to play the role of his late uncle. 

‘Michael’

On Jan. 11, it was announced that Michael Jackson’s biopic, titled Michael, is set to release on April 18, 2025. The film will be directed by Antoine Fuqua and Michael’s nephew, Jaafar would play the role of his iconic uncle. Jaafar is the son of Michael’s brother, Jermaine Jackson. 

The film, scripted by John Logan and produced by Bohemian Rhapsody’s Graham King, will offer a comprehensive look at the man behind the music, showcasing his human side and unparalleled artistry. Co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain, also serve as producers, ensuring the accuracy and authenticity of the film.

Fuqua Expresses Excitement

Users on Twitter (X) reacted to the movie officially making the release date public. One user named @KellyBill14 commented:

“This movie will hold the top spot for a long time. It will generate millions on premier night. No one will be able to top this. Long live the king of pop,” and one other user named @MoonwalkerBen9 commented “Welp imma get my Mj outfit ready.” 

Fuqua couldn’t help but express his astonishment at the talent Jaafar possesses, stating:

“It’s uncanny how much he’s like Michael … sounds like him, dances like him, sings. It’s really uncanny. Graham King, who is a fantastic producer, found him, and introduced him to me, and I was blown away.” 

In January 2023, the 27-year-old Jaafar landed the title role. The singer and songwriter has been singing and dancing since age 12 and showcased himself singing tunes from Sam Cooke to Marvin Gaye, along with originals on his social media. 

Updated By: Chris Samuel (1/12/23 at 3:20 pm)

Michael Jackson’s Nephew To Portray Him In Biopic + 5 Other Relatives Of Late Legends Who Could Play Them In Films

Michael Jackson’s nephew Jafaar Jackson was cast to play his uncle in a new film. It begs the question, are there relatives of other late musical icons that could believably play them in a film?

Jafaar Jackson, the nephew of the late Michael Jackson, has been cast to play his legendary uncle in a biopic titled Michael. The project is being helmed by Training Day and Emancipation Director Antoine Fuqua.  

This casting choice certainly has precedence as C. J. Wallace, the son of late East Coast rapper Biggie Smalls, portrayed a young B.I.G in the 2007 drama Notorious.

This raises the question: What other lesser-known relatives of late musical icons can play them in a film?

Lesser-Known Relatives Who Can Play Late Music Icons

Isaac Hayes III As Issac Hayes

As the son of the late soul singer, casting Issac Hayes III to play his father is a no-brainer. He has a musical background from serving as a record producer for Houston rapper Megan Thee Stallion.

In addition, he is also a voice actor on episodes of the Adult Swim comedies Aqua Teen, Hunger Force, and Squidbillies so he should be able to play the role perfectly.

Nasaan Holton As Proof

Nassan Holton, son of the late Detroit rapper Proof, is another inspired casting choice. Holton has followed in his father’s footsteps by becoming an established rapper and is currently signed with  DATYRP Records. 

If further proof was needed, he also edits and directs most of his music videos and has received a co-sign from Eminem, who was in D-12 with his father. 

DJ Jam Master J’Son As DJ Jam Master Jay

As can be surmised by his stage name, Jam Master J’Son is the son of late Run DMC member Jam Master Jay. Similarly to Nasaan, J’Son also took after his dad and worked as a disk jockey while he was enrolled in college.

After a countrywide tour deejaying with artist Mann, both J’Son and his younger brother became the official DJs for Run DMC at the Budweiser Made in America Festival, which was the first live performance by the surviving members of the influential hip-hop group Rev Run and Darryl McDaniels in more than a decade. 

Reigndrop Lopes As Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes

One of the most well-regarded girl groups within the last 10-20 years is TLC. The four-time Grammy Award-winning Atlanta-based trio consists of Rozanda “Chili” Thomas, Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins, and formerly, the late Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes. 

While the group was the subject of CrazySexyCool– a made-for-television movie starring Keke Palmer, Reigndrop has gone on record stating that the film was made without consulting or receiving input from her family. 

As a way to honor the family’s memory of Left Eye and show a more intimate portrayal of her, this would be a good move. In an Instagram live, Reigndrop celebrated what would have been Lisa’s 49th birthday, featuring her rapping along to her sister’s lines in a manner many viewers felt channeled her energy.

Gekyume Onfroy As XXXTentacion

Given that Gekyume Onfroy is only four years old, this is purely hypothetical if he does decide to work in the hip-hop scene like his late father. If a biopic on XXXTentacion is made sooner rather than later, perhaps pulling a Notorious and casting him as a young depiction of him could work as well. 

An old video uploaded on Instagram shows he was in a studio laying down what some would consider the start of a music career. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/CBSUXmwjGeG/?igshid=MDM4ZDc5MmU=

Top 5 Hip-Hop Families

In hip-hop, several beloved families get to share memories of their precious time with their own families with fans. Read on to see candid moments with celebrities including Offset and Cardi B.

Originally Written By: Michael Omoruan (1/31/23 at 6:03 pm)

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Michael Jackson’s Mother Demands $500K From Estate 

Michael Jackson’s mother is taking legal action against her late son’s estate. Mrs. Jackson is demanding over $500,000 to cover her legal bills.

A ‘Confidential Deal’ Gone Wrong

On Dec. 29, it was reported that in court documents filed, Michael Jackson’s mother Katherine Jackson, detailed her need for a six-figure sum to cover legal services provided by the law firm Glaser Weil Fink Howard Jordan and Shapiro. 

The firm billed her a total of $561,548 for their assistance in opposing the estate’s confidential deal. Since Michael Jackson’s passing in 2009, his three children, Prince, Paris, and Blanket Jackson, have become the beneficiaries of his trust. 

However, he also established the Katherine Jackson Trust to provide for his mother’s financial needs during her lifetime. 

‘Incredibly Lucrative’

The executors of Jackson’s estate, John Branca and John McClain, have encountered numerous conflicts with the Jackson family. They claim to have turned the estate’s finances around and generated substantial profits through various deals. 

In 2023, Branca and McClain sought court approval for a confidential transaction they deemed “incredibly lucrative.” However, Katherine Jackson opposed the deal, citing past successful deals she had initially objected to, such as the 2009 live concert film, This Is It. 

The executors argued that their hard work and creative strategies have transformed the MJ Estate into a profitable entity, rescuing it from substantial debt.

Legal Woes

Between April and November 2023, the law firm representing Katherine Jackson worked diligently, conducting interviews with family members, preparing exhibits for trial, gathering documents, questioning witnesses, and fulfilling other necessary tasks. 

Despite the skirmish between the estate and Katherine Jackson, the judge ruled in favor of the estate, approving the proposed transaction and instructing the executors to carry out all required actions. This isn’t the first time Michael Jackson’s estate has faced legal challenges since his passing. 

In 2023, sexual abuse allegations made by Wade Robson and James Safechuck were reopened by the California courts, causing further complications for the estate.

Lauren London Awarded 50% Ownership Of ‘Marathon Clothing’

Disputes over estates and legal battles are not unique to Michael Jackson’s situation. Celebrities like Lauren London have also experienced similar challenges. London recently secured a substantial settlement of $6 million on behalf of their son and gained 50% ownership of Nipsey Hussle‘s Marathon Clothing Company.

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The Legacy of Fatima Robinson: From Aaliyah to ‘The Color Purple’

In the year 2023, pop culture witnessed some of its most unforgettable moments, thanks to the creative genius of one woman: Fatima Robinson. From curating mesmerizing performances in music and film with artists such as Aaliyah, the late King of Pop, and more–Robinson’s impact on hip-hop culture cannot be overstated.

30 Years Of Non-Stop Talent

Throughout her illustrious 30-year career, Fatima Robinson has choreographed unforgettable dance routines for renowned musicians such as Aaliyah, Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, and more. 

From Aaliyah’s unforgettable videos like “Rock The Boat” and “Are You That Somebody” to Michael Jackson’s 90s classic “Remember The Time” and working as the Director of Choreography for Beyoncé’s groundbreaking Renaissance World Tour, Robinson’s influence is evident. Her ability to curate a variety of dance styles has left an indelible mark on some of the most iconic music videos in R&B and hip-hop culture.

It’s worth mentioning that this isn’t Robinson’s first collaboration with the “CUFF IT” singer. She was also involved in the singer’s performance at the 2022 Oscars alongside Blue Ivy, where they performed “Be Alive.”

Dancing In Hollywood

Robinson’s talents extend beyond music. Her involvement in other notable films, including Dreamgirls and Save the Last Dance, further cements her status as a creative force in the entertainment industry. 

More notably, Robinson takes part in The Color Purple, which is marked as the second-biggest release of a Christmas Day film. According to Entertainment Weekly, it’s a project she holds “dear” to her as she stated:

“Out of my 34 years of choreographing and dancing, I watched this movie and for the first time I didn’t critque it. I didn’t feel like, ‘Oh I wish I would’ve done that. Oh, I should have moved that over there. A lot of times I’m very critical of my work and this is the first time where I finally said, ‘That is a masterpiece.’’

Remembered for her work with a recent role as the choreographer for the acclaimed film The Color Purple, many fans have granted Robinson her flowers. As @DollarBeKnowing expressed, “A Fatima Robinson documentary needs to happen. Sooner rather than later. Thank you in advance.” @She_DreadzMe praised Robinson’s recent work in “The Color Purple,” stating, “Give her flowers because this woman went from ‘Remember The Time’ to ‘Are You That Somebody’ to the ‘Renaissance Tour’ to TCP.”

Queen Latifah’s Impact On Hip-Hop

While Fatima Robinson’s impact on the culture is undeniable, she is not the only Black figure who has left a significant mark. Queen Latifah, a hidden influencer in hip-hop culture, shares a similar role in shaping the industry’s landscape, just like Robinson.

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Why Do Black Prominent Figures Face Persistent Scrutiny Regarding Their Racial Identity?

Tina Knowles, mother of Beyoncé and Solange Knowles, took to Instagram to defend her daughter against the backlash she received for her appearance at her Renaissance: A Film By Beyoncé premiere. Fans flooded social media with comments, accusing Queen Bey of bleaching her skin. This prompts the question: Why do Black prominent figures face constant scrutiny regarding their Blackness?

Ms. Tina Fires Back At Haters

On Nov. 25, the premiere of Queen Bey’s Renaissance: A Film By Beyoncé occurred, marking the upcoming release of the “CUFF IT” singer’s highly anticipated film on December 1. During the premiere, Beyoncé was donned in silver and chrome Versace attire with platinum silver hair, leading some social media users to accuse her of bleaching her skin and being “whitewashed.” 

Tina Knowles slammed these allegations, stating:

“She does a film, called the renaissance, where the whole theme is silver with silver hair, a silver carpet, and suggested silver attire and you bozos decide that she’s trying to be a white woman and is bleaching her skin? How sad is it that some of her own people continue the stupid narrative with hate and jealousy. Duh, she wore silver hair to match her silver dress as a fashion statement clown. ALIEN Superstar duh! What’s really sad is that a white woman had the audacity to reach out to Neal Beyonces hairstylist she was from TMZ to say that the fans are saying that she wants to be white and she wanted to get a statement about it from Neal.. lWell that made, my blood boil, that this white woman felt so entitled to discuss her blackness. What’s really most disappointing is that the some Black people yes you bozos that’s on social media. Lying and faking and acting like you’re so ignorant that you don’t understand That black women have worn platinum hair since the Etta James days. I just went and looked at all the beautiful talented black celebrities who have worn platinum hair and it has been just about everyone of them at one time or another. Are they all trying to be white? I am sick and tired of people attacking her.”

Following Tina calling out those diminishing her daughter, users had much to say regarding her recent comments. 

One user named @MJFINESSELOVER wrote, “I’m glad Mama Trina DRAGGED all of the bozos and losers, who were accusing Beyonce of bleaching her skin, and also TMZ for having the audacity to even reach out to Beyonce’s stylist for comment on this nonsense. She has had enough of ya’ll attacking her daughter. Smh.” 

Fellow Celebs Offer Outpouring Support

As Tina vouched for her daughter, the Knowles matriarch was met with an outpour of support from many including actress KeKe Palmer, LaTavia Roberson, Octavia Spencer, and more. 

Keke wrote:

“I love you so much Ms. Tina! She deserves to be protected in this way!” 

Former Destiny’s Child member LaTavia chimed in and wrote:

“Educate them, they always try to break the Black Woman especially one they feel intimidated by. The true definition of a protector.” Lastly, Octavia Spencer wrote, “You have raised beautiful, intelligent black, PROUD TO BE BLACK women. Period. Anyone who says otherwise has their own issues to deal with. I’m sorry you’ve come across the negative comments that people don’t realize is a reflection of how they feel about themselves.”

‘Not Black Enough?

This narrative has sparked conversations about the challenges Black artists face, where the most prominent figures are often questioned about their “Blackness.”

For numerous years, Queen Bey has constantly emphasized and celebrated her Black identity, utilizing the powerful platform she has garnered. From her early solo career to the present, Beyoncé has consistently been a prominent advocate for the Black community.

One notable instance is her 2016 Super Bowl performance, where she paid homage to the late Michael Jackson and the Black Panther Party while delivering a powerful rendition of her single, “Formation.” During this time, she faced scrutiny, even being questioned about whether she was “Black enough” to undertake such a performance.

Queen Bey Has Always Embraced Her Blackness

Beyoncé’s creation of Lemonade further exemplified her commitment to portraying and honoring Black culture in the critically acclaimed film. 

Additionally, the iconic 2018 Coachella performance, famously known as “Beychella,” stands as another testament to the iconic singer’s dedication to pushing Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) culture to the forefront, celebrating the richness of Black tradition. 

Showing consistency in her craft, Bey’s album The Gift and the accompanying film, Black Is King, emerged as a spinoff from the live-action adaptation of The Lion King, where it not only featured numerous Black and African artists but also highlighted the essence of African Traditional Religions.

Then, in her latest project, Renaissance, the “Run The World” singer continues to cast a spotlight on the Black community, specifically the Black queer community, celebrating the depth in both her album and the accompanying film, Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé.

Michael Jackson Too?

Similarly, the late great  Michael Jackson was no stranger to scrutiny regarding his Blackness. 

Despite his physical Black appearance, Jackson’s skin underwent transformation due to the skin disorder called Vitiligo, leaving him to become lighter than he was. However many believed Michael “bleached” his skin because he wanted to appear as White and that he “hated” his racial identity.

He addressed these speculations during a 1994 interview with Oprah Winfrey, expressing his frustration with the spread of false narratives. The King Of Pop stated:

“I have a skin disorder the pigmentation of my skin. It is something I cannot help. When people make up stories that I don’t want to be who I am, it hurts me. It’s a problem for me. I can’t control it.”  

Dr. Umar Calls Out Rappers

While some individuals question the Blackness of prominent figures like Beyoncé, others within the black community have taken a different stance. Dr. Umar Johnson, for example, criticized certain rappers for promoting philanthropy while still rapping about violence, highlighting the hypocrisy within the hip-hop industry.

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Goodie Mob Dives Deep: The State Of Hip-Hop, Sampling, and Drake & MJ Comparisons

Goodie Mob recently sat down with SOHH to discuss various aspects of the music industry. Khujo Goodie, Gipp, and T-Mo delved into topics such as the state of the modern hip-hop world, the art of hip-hop sampling, and the influence of Drake‘s success. In this exclusive interview, the members shared their perspectives on the lack […]

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White Media’s Ongoing Comparison Of Taylor Swift To Beyoncé & Other Black Icons Sparks Controversy

The ongoing debate surrounding Taylor Swift’s success has raised concerns about racial comparisons in the media, particularly when measuring her achievements against Black icons like Beyoncé. This debate extends to their respective fan bases, the Swifties and the Beyhive, and is further fueled by the recent releases of concert films from both artists.  Swifties Vs. […]

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Drake Ties Michael Jackson for Most No. 1 Billboard Songs. Is The Tie Truly Equal?

Drake has reached yet another incredible milestone in his illustrious career. The rap superstar is now tied to the late music icon Michael Jackson for the most No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 songs by a male solo artist. However, this new milestone raises the question–is it truly equal? Drake & J. Cole Hit No. 1 […]

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Michael Jackson’s Nephew Sets The Record Straight On Taylor Swift’s Film Vs. MJ’s ‘This Is It’

​​The nephew of the legendary Michael Jackson has vehemently responded to claims that Taylor Swift’s latest concert film surpassed the numbers of his late uncle’s documentary This Is It. Recently, he clarified the distinction between a concert film and a documentary, which sparked a debate over MJ’s legacy. Wrong Category Michael Jackson’s nephew, Taj Jackson, […]

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Dead or Alive: The Most Influential Artists Evident in Today’s Music

The music industry has been shaped and influenced by countless artists throughout history. These musicians have significantly impacted the industry, from their unique styles to powerful voices. Artists from the past continue to inspire and influence the music we hear today. Here’s a closer look at some of the most influential artists and their impact […]

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