The film “Michael” grossed $977M and became the highest-grossing biopic in history, surpassing “Oppenheimer”

The biopic “Michael” has grossed $977 million worldwide and became the highest-grossing biopic.

Variety reports this.

The film about Michael Jackson surpassed the previous record-holder among films about real people — Christopher Nolan’s historical drama “Oppenheimer,” which held the lead with $975 million.

More on the box office

Since its April 2026 release, the film has earned $607.2 million internationally and $370.2 million at the U.S. box office.

The film’s opening was record-breaking. On its first weekend the film earned $97 million in the U.S. and $217 million worldwide. According to Variety, thanks to audience word-of-mouth and repeat viewings, “Michael” maintained strong box office momentum even during a competitive summer season.

Previously the film had already become the highest-grossing musical biopic, surpassing the 2018 film about Queen, “Bohemian Rhapsody” ($911 million).

In addition, “Michael” became the most successful release in Lionsgate’s history, overtaking the 2013 film “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” ($865 million).

What is known about the film “Michael”

Director Antoine Fuqua presents the performer’s journey from his time in the Jackson 5 to his status as the King of Pop.

The lead role was played by the singer’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson. Michael’s parents, Joe and Katherine, were portrayed by Colman Domingo and Nia Long.

The film is being distributed by Lionsgate in the U.S. and by Universal internationally.

Film critics have raised objections to how the filmmakers portrayed Jackson’s biography. They note that the film offers a softened version of his life, since the creators completely cut out the accusations of sexual abuse of minors that were made against the singer in the later stages of his career.

According to Variety, the studio is considering making at least one more film about Michael Jackson’s life.

Recall that the animated film “Toy Story 5” opened in theaters with $160 million in North America.

It is the best box-office opening of the year in U.S. cinemas and the most successful debut in the history of the “Toy Story” franchise.

Also read: Universal and DreamWorks will release a standalone film about the Donkey from “Shrek”