‘Michael’ Co-Stars Jaafar Jackson and Colman Domingo Reunite on Kimmel with Unmatched Chemistry
Late-night television has enjoyed a lively summer lineup, featuring a rotating cast of guest hosts filling in for regulars on vacation. This week, Colman Domingo took his turn behind the desk, launching a stint that felt more significant than just a typical fill-in appearance.
The Emmy-winning actor has been busy promoting one of the year’s most talked-about films, making it fitting for his first night as guest host to circle back to that realm. Fans tuning in were treated to the full-circle moment they had been hoping for.
During the July 20 episode, Domingo interviewed Jaafar Jackson, who portrays his uncle Michael in the biopic ‘Michael,’ now available for streaming. This pairing marked a reunion between two actors whose on-screen father-son dynamic became one of the film’s most discussed elements.
Jackson reminisced about his experiences at Neverland Ranch during their conversation, while Domingo praised his co-star’s impressive portrayal of Joe Jackson. Jacob Elordi, who appeared on the episode to promote his upcoming film ‘The Dog Stars,’ also expressed admiration for the duo’s performances in ‘Michael.’
Elordi and Domingo share a history, having starred together on ‘Euphoria’ and previously participated in Variety’s Actors on Actors series, lending weight to his praise as a genuine industry peer rather than a mere polite endorsement. This kind of cross-promotion has become a hallmark of Domingo’s guest-hosting week, which also features Marlon Wayans, Arsenio Hall, and Niecy Nash-Betts in the following nights.
Viewers online quickly shared clips from the segment, highlighting Jackson’s striking red suit and his infectious energy throughout the interview. The chemistry between Jackson and Domingo has been a recurring topic since ‘Michael’ premiered, and this appearance only reinforced why audiences continue to respond positively to it.
This reunion arrives at a time when ‘Michael’ is experiencing significant momentum. The film has made history as the first biopic to surpass $1 billion worldwide, a milestone that has kept both Jackson and Domingo in high demand on the press circuit long after the movie’s theatrical run concluded.
The film’s box office success has been complemented by a strong presence on the awards circuit. Both actors received accolades at the 2026 Astra Midseason Movie Awards, with Jackson winning Best Actor and Domingo taking home Best Supporting Actor, triumphing over competitive fields that included Ryan Gosling and Edward Norton, respectively.
Jackson’s performance carries added significance due to his personal connection to the role. As Michael Jackson’s real-life nephew and Jermaine Jackson’s son, this role marked his acting debut, with his casting personally approved by his grandmother, Katherine Jackson, who stated he embodies her late uncle.
The film’s awards buzz has continued to grow in the weeks following the Astras, with ‘Michael’ also securing multiple wins at the National Film Awards UK, a ceremony determined entirely by public vote. This grassroots support indicates that the movie’s momentum has genuine staying power beyond its impressive box office figures.
With the film now available for streaming at home, the Kimmel reunion feels perfectly timed to keep the conversation alive for audiences who may have missed it in theaters. The easy rapport between Jackson and Domingo remains one of the film’s most compelling aspects, from its initial premiere through this current wave of awards recognition.
Domingo’s guest hosting week is still in progress, but this opening night reunion has already set a high standard for the rest of the lineup to follow. What did you think of Jaafar Jackson and Colman Domingo’s reunion on Kimmel? Let us know in the comments.