Michael Jackson’s nephew Taj says ‘media doesn’t control narrative’ ahead of 'Michael' release

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'Michael' is all set to release on Friday, April 24. Now, Michael Jackson’s family has sought to shape ongoing media narratives and has slammed critics.

Taj Jackson, nephew of the pop star and son of Tito Jackson, posted on X (formerly Twitter) criticizing the press. He said, "Sorry media, u don’t get to control the narrative anymore of who Michael Jackson truly was."

He added that audiences will finally get to judge for themselves, writing: “The public gets to watch this movie... they will decide for themselves,” before closing with: “And you can’t handle that.”

His statement came after some critics shared early reviews, with a few calling it a “whitewash” and a “sanitised” version of his life and career.

Taj Jackson slams media, hits back at critics

In one of his posts, Taj wrote, “Can’t wait till some critics have to eat crow. And yes, I will be that petty.” The comment was part of a wider series of posts in which he expressed strong support for the project and his family’s legacy.

Earlier, he also shared a pinned post featuring Michael’s image, writing, “I’m going to the theater in a few hours to see a movie I’ve seen several times. Why? Because I’m proud."

"I wouldn’t miss this opportunity to be masked in the electrifying energy that will be in that theater for nothing. My uncle deserves this, my cousin earned this, and his loyal supporters are owed this. The world will be reminded or learn who MJ truly was, and I can’t wait! #michaelmovie”

Meanwhile, Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew who plays him in the film, has also spoken about him recently. He addressed common misunderstandings about the pop icon, including why he wore gloves, and also denied claims about changes to his skin color.

Following early screenings, several outlets and critics, including BBC, Forbes, Roger Ebert’s platform, USA Today, Kevin Maher of The Times (UK), and The Independent, shared their reactions to the film.

Meanwhile, Jaafar, Michael’s nephew who plays him in the film, has also spoken about him recently. He addressed common misunderstandings about the pop icon, including why he wore gloves and also denied claims about changes to his skin color.

Michael biopic traces rise from child star to peak fame

The upcoming biopic 'Michael' will show Michael Jackson’s rise to fame on the big screen. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and made with support from his estate, the film follows his journey from becoming a child star with the Jackson 5 at age 10.

It then moves into his peak global success around 1988, during the time of the 'Bad' album and its world tour. Originally, the movie was planned to explore more of his later years as well, but that direction changed during post-production.

Legal complications related to prior agreements involving the estate led to a reworking of the third act, requiring additional reshoots and significantly increasing production costs.

Ahead of release, early reactions from critics have been mixed, with the film currently holding a 37 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

According to global box office updates shared on X, Michael is reportedly earning around $3.5M–$4M from Wednesday, April 22, domestic early access showings.

The film is now tracking toward an $85M–$105M opening weekend on Saturday, September 25. Pre-sales for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday have also reportedly surpassed Project Hail Mary.