‘Michael 2’ Eyes Filming Start ‘Towards the End of this Year’ or Early 2027 as Lionsgate Teases Release Date

**"Michael 2" Gets Greenlit: Lionsgate Teases Release Date for King of Pop Sequel**

The highly anticipated sequel to the biopic "Michael" is one step closer to reality, with Lionsgate announcing plans to start filming "Michael 2" towards the end of this year or early 2027. The studio's motion picture chief, Adam Fogelson, made the announcement on Thursday's earnings call, sparking excitement among fans of the late Michael Jackson. With the first film grossing over $1 billion globally and ending with the ominous words "His Story Continues," it's no surprise that audiences are eagerly awaiting the next installment of the King of Pop's life story.

Background & Context

The first film, directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson as the King of Pop, chronicles Michael Jackson's journey from the Jackson 5 to global superstardom. The movie wraps up with the 1987 "Bad" tour, leaving viewers wondering what the future holds for the iconic performer. The sequel is expected to cover a different period in Jackson's life, potentially including his hit album "Dangerous" and the multiple allegations of child sexual abuse that plagued him for the rest of his life.

The first film's success was not without controversy, however. Due to a last-minute legal dispute, the filmmakers were forced to omit the most sensitive aspects of Jackson's life, including the molestation accusations. While the movie was able to address some of the more minor controversies, the omission of the more serious allegations has left many fans and critics wondering what could have been.

Key Details

According to Adam Fogelson, Lionsgate's motion picture chief, production on "Michael 2" is expected to begin in late 2026 or early 2027. The studio hopes to release the film at the end of next year or in the first half of 2028. Fogelson also revealed that some of the material that was cut from the first film could be used in the sequel, including "a number of sequences, particularly some big musical sequences, that were shot previously."

Fogelson emphasized the importance of delivering a high-quality sequel that meets the audience's expectations. "We are mostly focused right now on how to make sure we can deliver, at the right price, the biggest, best sequel," he said. "That is what the audience is going to want and deserve after the experience we gave them the first time." While Fogelson refused to give guidance on the budget for the sequel, it's clear that the studio is committed to creating a film that lives up to the standard set by the first "Michael."

What Experts Say

The announcement of "Michael 2" has sparked a lot of excitement among fans and critics, but it also raises questions about the challenges of creating a sequel to a highly successful film. "It's a tough act to follow," said film critic and historian, Mark Harris. "The first 'Michael' was a game-changer in terms of its portrayal of Michael Jackson's life and legacy. The sequel will need to be just as innovative and compelling if it wants to live up to the standard set by the first film."

Harris also noted that the sequel will need to tackle some of the more sensitive aspects of Jackson's life, including the molestation allegations. "The first film was able to address some of the minor controversies, but the sequel will need to be more explicit in its portrayal of the more serious allegations," he said. "It's a delicate balance between telling the truth and respecting the victim's privacy, but I think the filmmakers will be able to pull it off."

Key Takeaways

• Production on "Michael 2" is expected to begin in late 2026 or early 2027.
• The sequel is expected to cover a different period in Michael Jackson's life, potentially including his hit album "Dangerous" and the multiple allegations of child sexual abuse.
• Some of the material that was cut from the first film could be used in the sequel, including "a number of sequences, particularly some big musical sequences, that were shot previously."
• The studio is committed to creating a high-quality sequel that meets the audience's expectations.

What This Means For You

The announcement of "Michael 2" is a big deal for fans of the King of Pop, but it also raises questions about the challenges of creating a sequel to a highly successful film. As a fan, you can expect the sequel to be just as innovative and compelling as the first film, with a deeper exploration of Michael Jackson's life and legacy. But what does this mean for you, the everyday viewer? It means that you'll have the opportunity to experience the next chapter in Michael Jackson's story, with all the drama and intrigue that comes with it.

So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to experience the next installment of the Michael Jackson story, and find out what happens next in the life of the King of Pop.