‘Michael’ Physical Media Now Available as Jaafar Jackson’s Biopic Hits $1 Billion
Musical biopics often struggle to maintain a lasting presence in theaters, but ‘Michael’ has defied expectations, proving it belongs in a league of its own. Since its debut on April 24, the film directed by Antoine Fuqua has drawn audiences back for repeat viewings, transforming a shaky pre-release narrative into one of the most discussed theatrical performances of the year.
That staying power was solidified over the weekend of July 12, when ‘Michael’ crossed the $1 billion mark at the global box office after twelve weekends in theaters. This milestone marks Lionsgate’s first film to achieve such success and makes it the first biopic to surpass the billion-dollar threshold, a record previously unheld by any music film, sports drama, or historical portrait. The film’s final surge was largely driven by strong performances in Japan, a significant market for Michael Jackson, along with robust sales in Russia during its closing weeks.
Just days after this historic achievement, Global Box Office confirmed on X that Lionsgate has officially released ‘Michael’ on physical media, with 4K and Blu-ray editions now available following the film’s billion-dollar weekend. This timing aligns with Lionsgate’s earlier plans, positioning the home release as a celebratory moment for a film that exceeded nearly all expectations.
The home entertainment rollout began on Digital on June 9, with the 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD editions following on July 14, 2026. Collectors have various options to purchase, including Limited Edition 4K exclusives available through Amazon, Walmart, and Lionsgate Limited. Both standard and premium editions feature a Dolby Atmos audio track and a variety of new special features, including behind-the-scenes documentaries and makeup transformation time-lapses.
The most expensive option, the Collector’s Edition sold through Lionsgate Limited, includes a 50-page photo book featuring never-before-seen images from production, along with an introduction by Jaafar Jackson. Bonus content across all releases includes the documentaries ‘Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,’ ‘The Making of ‘Michael’,’ and ‘Home Is Where His Heart Is: Behind the Gates of Hayvenhurst,’ plus time-lapse featurettes showcasing the recreation of iconic performances like ‘Billie Jean’ and ‘Thriller.’
Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s real-life nephew, made his acting debut in the title role, with Colman Domingo and Nia Long portraying his parents, Joe and Katherine. Director Antoine Fuqua described the billion-dollar milestone as a humbling moment that honors the dedication of the producers, cast, and crew who brought the film to life. Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chair Adam Fogelson attributed the success to the studio’s collaboration with the Michael Jackson Estate and the passionate audiences who kept the film in theaters longer than typical for the genre.
With a Beatles biopic already in the works as a four-film event, ‘Michael’ now sets the standard that any future music biopic will strive to meet. For now, the film’s theatrical journey concludes on a high note, paving the way for a home release designed for fans who know every dance step by heart.
Are you planning to add the 4K SteelBook or the Collector’s Edition photo book to your collection, and do you think ‘Michael’ deserves its title as the biggest biopic of all time?
