‘Michael’ Sequel Eyes Late 2026 Production Start, Potential 2027–2028 Release

The story of Michael Jackson is set to continue on the big screen, with Lionsgate already moving forward with plans for a sequel to the blockbuster biopic Michael.

Following the enormous commercial success of the first film, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson has offered new details about when production on the currently untitled follow-up could begin and when audiences might see it in theaters.

According to Variety, Fogelson revealed during Lionsgate’s latest earnings call that production on Michael 2 could begin as early as late 2026 or during the first months of 2027.

The studio is reportedly targeting a theatrical release sometime between late 2027 and the first half of 2028.

Parts of the Sequel Have Already Been Filmed

While a sequel of this scale would typically require an extensive production schedule, Lionsgate already has a head start.

Several sequences originally filmed for Michael were ultimately left out of the finished movie. Some of that footage, including major musical performances, is now expected to be incorporated into the sequel.

Fogelson said:

“We have a number of sequences, particularly some big musical sequences, that were shot previously, that are almost sure to be incorporated.”

He also indicated that Lionsgate is focused on producing the strongest sequel possible while keeping the project’s budget at an appropriate level.

The previously completed footage could allow filmmakers to move more quickly once full production begins.

Blockbuster Success Sets Stage for Second Film

The sequel follows the massive global performance of director Antoine Fuqua’s Michael, which reportedly generated approximately $1 billion at the worldwide box office and delivered what has been described as the largest opening ever for a music biopic.

Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s real-life nephew, led the film as the King of Pop, portraying his uncle’s journey from his childhood performing alongside his brothers in the Jackson 5 through his emergence as one of the world’s biggest solo entertainers.

The possibility of a continuation was also built directly into the first movie.

Michael concluded during Jackson’s 1987 Bad era before presenting audiences with a clear message:

“His Story Continues.”

With a second installment, filmmakers will have the opportunity to explore the later chapters of Jackson’s career and life that were not covered in the first movie.

While Lionsgate has now provided a preliminary production and release timeline, additional details — including the sequel’s official title, complete returning cast and exactly which periods of Jackson’s life will be covered — have yet to be announced.

If production begins according to the studio’s current plans, audiences could see Michael Jackson’s story return to theaters as early as late 2027.