Netflix Nearly Canceled ‘Michael Jackson: The Verdict’ Docuseries Before Release
Netflix was reportedly on the verge of canceling its documentary series about Michael Jackson just days before its scheduled premiere. According to Variety, executives at the streaming service expressed concerns about potential backlash from Jackson’s estate and his devoted fanbase, prompting some higher-ups to reconsider whether the project should proceed.
The three-part docuseries, titled ‘Michael Jackson: The Verdict,’ delves into Jackson’s 2005 criminal trial, during which he faced allegations of child molestation and was ultimately acquitted of all charges. The series premiered on Netflix as planned on June 3, but behind the scenes, the platform was reportedly grappling with worries about the repercussions of its release.
Sources who spoke with Variety indicated that some Netflix executives grew anxious after the trailer had been released and the project was publicly announced. One insider noted that canceling the series at that point would have attracted even more attention, stating, “It would have been very difficult to pull the series after you drop the trailer — it would have been a huge story.”
The report highlighted that the primary concern was not only the potential backlash from fans but also the risk of legal action from Jackson’s estate. The estate has previously pursued legal action against documentaries and projects that involve allegations against the singer, including HBO’s ‘Leaving Neverland’ and ABC’s ‘The Last Days of Michael Jackson.’
Another source revealed to Variety that Netflix was particularly apprehensive about the estate’s financial influence, saying, “It was the fear of a lawsuit from the estate rather than the fans. [Netflix] was really scared of their financial muscle.”
However, Netflix denied that the company ever seriously contemplated canceling the series due to external pressure. A spokesperson for the streaming service told Variety, “Characterizations that Netflix reconsidered the release or changed course because of outside pressure are inaccurate. The series launched as planned and reached the Netflix Top 10 for three weeks.”
Despite the reported apprehensions, Netflix proceeded with the release, and the documentary quickly garnered an audience. The series reportedly achieved 17.8 million views within its first five days and became the number one show on Netflix in 61 countries, also entering the Top 10 in 89 countries.
This documentary takes a unique approach compared to many previous projects about Jackson, presenting multiple perspectives on the 2005 trial. It features interviews with individuals who believe the allegations were valid, alongside those who continue to defend Jackson, including former members of his legal and publicity teams. Two jurors from the trial also appear in the series to explain their reasoning behind the verdict.
The Jackson estate and fans have consistently opposed projects that scrutinize the allegations against the singer. A petition urging Netflix to withdraw the documentary reportedly amassed over 188,000 signatures, with some fans claiming online that they canceled their subscriptions due to the release.
Variety also noted that Netflix implemented additional precautions prior to launching the series. The company reportedly limited communication about the project, provided security guidance to those involved, avoided early reviews, and opted not to organize interviews or major publicity events with the filmmakers.
Even with the behind-the-scenes concerns, ‘Michael Jackson: The Verdict’ emerged as a significant success for Netflix. The controversy surrounding its release only heightened interest, making the documentary one of the platform’s most discussed titles following its debut.
Have something to add? Let us know in the comments below!