Tension sparked inside the Jackson family after Janet Jackson criticized the upcoming ‘Michael’ biopic, leading to a heated exchange with her brother Jermaine Jackson at the private family screening.
More than 60 members of the Jackson family gathered in Los Angeles last week for the private screening of the film, which is set to hit theaters worldwide on April 24. The biopic centers on the life and career of Michael Jackson and stars Jaafar Jackson, Jermaine Jackson’s son, in the lead role.
According to multiple sources present at the event, the mood inside the screening room initially felt celebratory. Family members laughed and applauded as the film recreated moments from Michael Jackson’s rise from a child performer in Gary, Indiana, to becoming one of the most recognized entertainers in the world.
The tone reportedly shifted soon after the film ended. When the lights came up, Janet Jackson began sharing her thoughts about the movie. Several insiders said she criticized various elements of the production, including the performances, makeup, and the way actors portrayed the family members on screen.
People who attended the screening said Janet offered critiques about many of the scenes, surprising some relatives who had expected the family to rally behind the project. According to one person present, the singer expressed concerns about several creative decisions throughout the film.
The moment reflected deeper divisions within the family that some insiders say have existed for years. Janet has been one of the most visible family members supporting Paris Jackson in her legal dispute with her father’s estate, a conflict that has contributed to tension among family members who disagree about how Michael Jackson’s legacy and business affairs should be managed.
During the discussion following the screening, Jermaine Jackson reportedly confronted his sister over her criticism of the film. According to a family insider who witnessed the exchange, Jermaine told Janet she was missing an opportunity to support the project and accused her of being jealous.
The confrontation surprised several relatives, especially younger members of the family who had not previously seen such a direct disagreement between the siblings. Many of the relatives in attendance are said to support Jermaine, who has been closely involved in the project and the casting of his son in the leading role.
Jaafar Jackson, 29, has reportedly received praise from early viewers of the film for his portrayal of his uncle. Those who have seen early cuts say he closely captures Michael Jackson’s voice, posture, and signature dance style.
Family insiders say Jermaine Jackson views the film as an important moment for the Jackson family’s public image. The project represents the most significant effort since Michael Jackson’s death in 2009 to reconnect the family’s legacy with audiences around the world.
Michael Jackson’s career remains one of the most influential in music history. His life and legacy have continued to draw attention in the years following his death, which came after he overdosed on a combination of prescription drugs. Allegations of child abuse also followed him during his lifetime, though he was never convicted of any such crimes.
For some family members at the screening, the emotional weight of the film extended beyond the story being told on screen. One relative who attended the event described the moment as a reminder of the family’s lasting connection to Michael Jackson’s legacy and the ongoing conversation surrounding it.
As the release of ‘Michael’ approaches, the film is already generating widespread attention, both within the Jackson family and among fans around the world who continue to follow the story of the King of Pop.
