The Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles was aglow on April 20th as the stars of the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, “Michael,” stepped onto the black carpet. Ahead of the film’s official release on April 24th, the cast and family celebrated the life and legacy of the King of Pop with a night of glamour, style, and heartfelt tributes.
Jaafar Jackson Steps into the Spotlight
At the heart of the evening was Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew, who takes on the monumental task of portraying his legendary uncle. Dressed in a sleek, understated custom black look styled by Petar Boy, Jaafar let the film’s narrative shine. He shared with ExtraTV his profound feelings about embodying Michael on screen, calling it a “lifetime experience” and a “defining moment.” Despite extensive preparation, he admitted to still feeling he hadn’t “nailed” Jackson’s iconic dance moves, but the joy of the audience’s reaction and being part of such a project was unforgettable.
Family Ties and Star Power on the Carpet
The Jackson family was out in full force. Aunt La Toya Jackson embraced a classic theme in a flowing black satin gown, complete with opera gloves, a dazzling diamond necklace, and a bold red lip. She told Variety that the family was initially excited about director Antoine Fuqua’s vision and emphasized the importance of staying true to Michael’s life. La Toya even gushed about Jaafar’s performance, noting that at times, she and other family members felt they were watching “Mike” himself.
Nia Long added her own star power, shimmering in a Pamella Roland gown and a striking red lip. Portraying matriarch Katherine Jackson, Long praised the icon’s quiet strength and grace. She aimed to embody Katherine with “grace, and patience and love and groundedness,” emphasizing the power of deliberate quietude. Long expressed enthusiasm for a potential sequel, stating, “Of course I want to do it, like why not!”
A Stylish Homage to the King of Pop
Colman Domingo, embodying patriarch Joe Jackson, made a sharp statement in a custom black Maison Valentino tuxedo. Kendrick Sampson, who plays producer Quincy Jones, channeled retro glamour with a coral blue suit featuring flared pants, nodding to the late ’60s and ’70s. Rapper Wale paid direct homage to Michael Jackson with a custom ensemble, complete with iconic wardrobe elements and even hitting some of MJ’s signature moves on the carpet, much to the delight of the press.
The red carpet itself became a sea of homage, with other attendees sporting bedazzled jackets and classic red leather accents, all celebrating the King of Pop. As anticipation builds for the film’s worldwide release on April 24th, the premiere night served as a stylish and heartfelt prelude to what promises to be a captivating look into Michael Jackson’s extraordinary life.
What are your thoughts on the fashion from the ‘Michael’ biopic premiere? Who do you think had the best look? Share your opinions in the comments below!