Janet Jackson’s absence from the new ‘Michael’ biopic is already raising eyebrows, and now the explanation behind it is giving fans one more reason to wonder how much tension still lingers inside the Jackson family.
The Antoine Fuqua-directed film, ‘Michael’, hits theaters on April 24 and puts Michael Jackson’s life under the spotlight, from his Jackson 5 childhood to his years as one of pop’s biggest stars. Jaafar Jackson, the 29-year-old son of Jermaine Jackson, plays his late uncle in the film, and early reactions from the family have centered on just how uncannily close his performance feels. But one major family member will not be there at all. Janet Jackson, despite her famously close bond with Michael, chose not to be part of the project.
Why Janet Jackson Said No
At the Los Angeles premiere on Monday, La Toya Jackson addressed the decision directly. “I wish everybody was in the movie,” she said. “She was asked and she kindly declined so you have to respect her wishes.”
That answer may sound calm on the surface, but it is not stopping the speculation. Janet’s absence stands out because the film includes several key figures from Michael’s inner circle, including Katherine Jackson, Joe Jackson, La Toya, and Michael’s brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon.
Fuqua also weighed in, making it clear there is no public war being declared from his side. “I have so much respect and love for Janet, but you know it’s OK. She’s supportive of Jaafar and that’s what matters.”
Family Support Is There, But So Are Signs Of Friction
The film has backing from Michael’s estate and support from several members of the Jackson family. Prince Jackson was reportedly on set every day during production, while Bigi Jackson also showed support by attending an earlier Berlin premiere.
Still, the picture gets murkier when looking at the wider family response. In March, reports claimed Janet had several criticisms after a private screening with relatives, which only added more fuel to the idea that her decision was about more than scheduling or privacy.
Then there is Paris Jackson, who made it very clear she was not fully on board. She said she had “0% involvement” in the film and criticized an early draft of the script, saying she shared concerns about what felt dishonest and what “didn’t sit right” with her. When those issues were not addressed, she said she stepped away.
She later added, “A big section of the film panders to a very specific section of my dad’s fandom that still lives in the fantasy,” suggesting the movie may reopen long-running divisions over how Michael’s legacy should be handled.
So while ‘Michael’ arrives with family support in some corners, Janet’s absence and Paris’ sharp comments are keeping the feud angle very much alive.
