Michael Jackson’s nephew will play him in big screen biopic

There is a key reason Michael Jackson’s family are thrilled with the casting of the late pop star in a film about his life.

Jaafar Jackson in 2019 and Michael Jackson in 1983. Pictures: Gabriel Olsen/Getty Images; Frank Edwards/Fotos International/Getty Images

Michael Jackson’s very own nephew will play him in an upcoming biopic.

Jaafar Jackson, 26, is the son of Michael’s brother and The Jackson 5 member Jermaine Jackson, and his ex-wife Alejandra Oaziaza.

The film’s director Antoine Fuqua posted a picture of Jaafar in character – taken by his brother Jourdynn Jackson – on Instagram to announce the news on Tuesday.

“Proud to announce @jaafarjackson as Michael — the motion picture event that explores the journey of the man who became the King of Pop. Coming soon,” he wrote.

In his own post, Jaafar wrote: “I’m humbled and honored to bring my Uncle Michael’s story to life. To all the fans all over the world, I’ll see you soon.”

La Toya Jackson and Jaafar Jackson, who is playing his uncle in the upcoming biopic Michael, pictured in Los Angeles in 2019. Picture: Gabriel Olsen/Getty Images

Pop star Michael Jackson pictured in Los Angeles in 1983. Picture: Frank Edwards/Fotos International/Getty Images

The film, called Michael, is understood to not shy away from the controversies of the star’s life, which included accusations of child molestation, according to Deadline.

However, the singer’s estate, which has denied the accusations, is involved in the production.

Lionsgate is the studio behind the project and Graham King, whose credits include Golden Globe-winning Freddie Mercury biopic Bohemian Rhapsody, is producing.

The film’s director Antoine Fuqua posted this picture of Jaafar in character to announce the news. Picture: Jourdynn Jackson

Michael died at age 50 in 2009 after he suffered a cardiac arrest as a result of a combination of drugs in his body.

His personal physician, Conrad Murray, was later convicted of involuntary manslaughter for having improperly administering the anaesthetic drug Propofol and served two years of a four-year sentence.

Michael Jackson won 13 Grammys over his career and was dubbed the King of Pop. Picture: Luke Frazza / AFP

Michael’s son Prince Jackson said he “couldn’t be happier” that his cousin will play his father.

“Truthfully I couldn’t be happier and prouder for him, he’s been working his ass off and I know he’s going to do an amazing job,” Prince wrote on Instagram.

“Just being himself, he embodies so much of my dad and I’m confident we are all going to do our best to show the world a part of my father they’ve never seen and that they deserve to see.”

He added: “This project means so much to me for many reasons, I’m really happy that my family and I can go on this journey together.”

Michael’s mother and Jaafar’s grandmother, Katherine Jackson, also spoke out in support of the casting.

“Jaafar embodies my son. It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers,” she said in a statement.

Filming is due to start this year.

Jermaine Jackson with his then wife Halima Rashid, and his sons Jaafar (L) and Jermajesty (R) the month after Michael died in July 2009. Picture: Florian Seefried/Getty Images

Michael made his professional singing debut at the age of 6 in a band with his brothers, later named The Jackson 5, in 1964.

He released his first solo single Got to Be There in 1971 and debut solo studio album of the same name in 1972.

He left the band, responsible for the hits I Want You Back and ABC, in 1984 to continue a solo career.

He won 13 Grammy Awards, as well as the Grammy Legend Award and Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Jaafar released his own single Got Me Singing in 2019, along with a music video in which he sings, dances and acts.