Photo: Roy Rochlin/FilmMagic; Phil Dent/Redferns/Getty
DirectorAntoine Fuquais taking on the life ofMichael Jacksonin his next movie project.
On Wednesday,The Hollywood Reporterconfirmed that Fuqua, 56 and Lionsgate are teaming up to produce a biopic titledMichael, as theTraining Daydirector said in a statement that “combining film and music are a deep part of who I am” as he embarks on directing the movie.
“His music and those images are part of my worldview, and the chance to tell his story on the screen alongside his music was irresistible,” he added.
Michael Jackson.John T. Barr/Getty
Lionsgate has said the upcoming biopic will “address all aspects of Jackson’s life,” according toTHR, though the outlet noted it is unclear how Fuqua’s film will address allegations of child sex abuse levied against Jackson that were most recently publicly detailed in the 2019 documentary filmFinding Neverland.
The movie will be produced in coordination with Jackson’s estate — co-executers John Branca and John McClain are listed as producers — which hasrepeatedly defendedthe late singer and songwriter against allegations, the outlet also reported.
Jackson, known as the “King of Pop” in the music industry,died on June 25, 2009 at the age of 50after he suffered cardiac arrest at his home. In 2011, his doctor Conrad Murray wasconvicted ofinvoluntary manslaughter in his death.
Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
Screenwriter John Logan, who previously wroteGladiator(2000),The Aviator(2004) and the James Bond installmentsSkyfall(2012) andSpectre(2015), wrote the screenplay forMichael, according toTHR.
No casting decisions regarding who will portray Jackson or other major figures in the singer’s life have been announced as of this time.
source: people.com
