Courtesy of Lions Gate/Everett Collection 
By Okla Jones ·Updated May 1, 2026 < /> Getting your Trinity Audio player ready… At press time, Michael is still dominating theaters across the country. Audiences (especially our people) showed up in full, drawn by the music, the performances, and the chance to see Michael Jackson’s story on a large scale. Antoine Fuqua’s film, led by Jaafar Jackson alongside Colman Domingo and Nia Long, tracks Jackson’s rise from the Jackson 5 through the height of his solo success, ending around the time he released his seventh studio album, Bad. For many viewers, it was nostalgic, even as critics pointed to gaps in its storytelling.
Conversations around the film began almost immediately; covering nearly three decades in a little over two hours left certain moments feeling rushed, with entire chapters of Jackson’s life either shortened or left out. Reshoots tied to legal concerns also played a role in how the final version came together, narrowing the scope in ways that shaped what audiences ultimately saw on screen. Even so, the film leaned into MJ’s music catalog, which helped drive its early success and broader appeal.
Now, the story is set to continue. Lionsgate has confirmed development on a second installment following the film’s record-setting debut, with plans to explore the next phase of Jackson’s life. A portion of previously shot material, including concert footage, could factor into what comes next, offering a foundation as production moves forward. Questions remain about how the later years will be handled, especially given the complexities tied to that period.
“We absolutely have more story to tell,” Lionsgate film chair Adam Fogelson told The Hollywood Reporter in an interview. “We have prepared for that moment. And if the audience reinforces that they’re ready for more, we’re prepared to give it to them sooner rather than later.”
For viewers who felt the first film moved too quickly, a second chapter opens the door to revisit what was missed and spend more time with the moments that defined Jackson’s later career. Here’s what we want to see in the second installment of Michael.
Will the film touch on Michael’s relationships outside of family?
While we weren’t able to see Michael’s early relationships with Tatum O’Neal and Stephanie Mills, it would be good to see his connection with women later in life. Famously, he was married to Elvis Presley’s daughter, Lisa Marie, from 1994-1996, and then to Debbie Rowe from 1996-1999. Also, MJ was really close with Diana Ross (whom he co-starred with in The Wiz), but legal issues caused her scenes to be cut in the first film. The multitalented Kat Graham was slated to portray the former Supremes frontwoman.
Can we see a retrospective of The Wiz?
Although the film was released in 1978, it would be great to have some insight into that aspect of his career. The Wiz was pivotal for Michael, marking his first major film role as the Scarecrow, allowing him to transition from a child star to an adult artist. The film also connected him with Quincy Jones, launching their legendary partnership that produced Off the Wall and Thriller.
The elephant in the room, of course.
Part one avoided the most controversial chapter of Michael Jackson’s life, and it’s the biggest question hanging over a sequel. The 1993 allegations from Evan Chandler led to a global media storm, a canceled tour, and a civil settlement, though no charges were filed. A later trial in 2005 ended in acquittal. Whether the film chooses to address any of this, or continues to sidestep it, will define how complete the story feels the second time around.
Will we see Janet Jackson this time around?
Janet wasn’t in the first film after choosing not to participate, despite her close relationship with Michael. Still, her absence stood out. By the time Bad arrived, she was already carving her own lane, moving from Good Times into music with Control and Rhythm Nation 1814. Part two covers the years where both were operating at a high level, so her presence feels necessary. Whether she signs off this time will make a difference.
Can we see the purchase of Neverland Ranch and how it came to be?
Throughout the first film there were several instances where Michael showed his admiration for Peter Pan and the mythical location of Neverland. Michael purchased the ranch in 1988, and it served as his home as well as his private amusement park, with numerous garden statues, rides, and even a petting zoo. Part two should spend time there, and it also should address why he decided to leave. The “King of Pop” left the ranch for good in 2005, shortly after being acquitted of child sexual abuse charges. He felt the property was “tainted” following police raids and the trial; he never returned to live there.
The “We Are The World” recording session was legendary.
This was another moment that in reality took place within the timeframe of the first film, a brief retrospective would also be really good to see. “We Are the World” was written by Michael alongside Lionel Richie and brought together some of the biggest names in music for a global cause. Produced by Quincy Jones, the session itself has become part of music history. Part two should take us inside that room, so we can see artists like Stevie Wonder, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Ray Charles, and several others, do what they do best.
What were all the events that surrounded Michael’s death?
Part two has to close the story, which also means bringing closure to his life. Michael died on June 25, 2009, in Los Angeles from acute propofol intoxication, with his doctor later convicted in the case. He was preparing for the This Is It shows at the time, which adds another layer to how it all ended. The film should also go into the aftermath of his death—the global response, the memorial, and how his music surged again.
TOPICS: Michael Jackson Nia LongThe post Now That A Sequel Has Been Confirmed, Here’s What We Want To See In The Next Installment Of ‘Michael’ appeared first on Essence.