Nia Long Reflects on Playing Michael Jackson’s Mom Katherine: ‘I Know What It Is to Be a Mother, But Not to Raise a Superstar’

Nia Long Reflects on Playing Michael Jackson’s Mom Katherine: ‘I Know What It Is to Be a Mother, But Not to Raise a Superstar’

Nia Long is opening up about the emotional journey of portraying Katherine Jackson in the upcoming biopic Michael.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the actress reflected on stepping into the role of the Jackson family matriarch, calling it “an opportunity of a lifetime.”

“I get so emotional,” Long, 54, said. “It’s not kind of a dream come true — it’s a dream come true.”

The Best Man star said she approached the role with deep reverence, describing Katherine as a woman whose “spirit is strong and kind” and whose grace inspired her throughout filming.

“It’s a huge responsibility to represent a woman who is iconic, who has carried the weight of the world on her shoulders, who is still with us gracefully,” she explained.

Though Long hasn’t yet met Katherine Jackson in person, she said she hopes the 94-year-old matriarch “enjoyed the film.”

The actress, who shares sons Massai and Kez with ex-partner Ime Udoka, drew from her own experience as a mother while preparing for the part.

“I know what it is to be a mother,” she said. “But I don’t know what it is to raise a superstar.”

Long stars alongside Oscar nominee Colman Domingo, who portrays Joe Jackson, and Michael Jackson’s real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson, who plays the late pop icon.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua, Michael will chronicle the highs and lows of the King of Pop’s life and career while also highlighting the strength and resilience of the Jackson family.

For Long, the role represents a powerful new chapter in her career — one she’s still processing.

“All of these wonderful things are happening at once … it still feels not real,” she admitted. “It’s allowing me to enjoy it. It’s allowing me to be grateful and to live with a great deal of humility.”

Michael is set to bring Katherine Jackson’s quiet strength and unwavering faith to the big screen — through the eyes of an actress who understands the power of family, love, and legacy.