Michael just crossed a massive milestone, and Lionsgate is already making moves for the sequel. The studio revealed a production timeline and potential release window for Michael 2 during its latest earnings call.
Michael 2 release date could be as early as late-2027
Lionsgate has confirmed that Michael 2 could hit theaters as early as late 2027. Motion picture group chair Adam Fogelson shared the update during the studio’s Thursday earnings call, according to ScreenRant. He revealed that filming could begin in late 2026 or early 2027. If production stays on schedule, the sequel could premiere by late 2027 or mid-2028.
The original Michael Jackson biopic earned $1 billion worldwide after its April 24, 2026 release. That massive commercial success made a sequel almost inevitable for the studio. Meanwhile, the film’s ending already teased a continuation with the words “His Story Continues.” Many viewers interpreted that message as a clear signal for a second installment.
Antoine Fuqua directed the first film, which chronicles the King of Pop’s rise. Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s real-life nephew, portrayed the iconic singer on screen. The cast also features Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson and Nia Long as Katherine Jackson. Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, and KeiLyn Durrel Jones round out the ensemble in key supporting roles.
However, legal complications shaped the first film’s final cut significantly. The project originally included the molestation allegations against the singer. Lawyers for Jackson’s estate then found a clause in a settlement agreement. That clause prevented one of his accusers from being portrayed on screen. As a result, the studio cut several major scenes and conducted reshoots.
Plot details for Michael 2 remain under wraps at this time. The legal hurdle creates uncertainty about the sequel’s narrative direction going forward. Despite the settlement restrictions, Fogelson indicated that some removed material could appear in the sequel. Lionsgate has not yet set an official release date for the follow-up film. The studio currently targets a 2027 or 2028 theatrical premiere window.
Originally reported by Vritti Johar on Comingsoon.net.
