Jaafar Jackson Says Aunt Janet Jackson ‘Has Ideas’ For Her Own Biopic After She Didn’t Participate In “Michael”

Jaafar Jackson Says Aunt Janet Jackson ‘Has Ideas’ For Her Own Biopic After She Didn’t Participate In “Michael”

#JaafarJackson, who played his uncle Michael Jackson in the blockbuster biopic “Michael,” says his aunt #JanetJackson may be working on a film of her own after choosing not to participate in his.

“I don’t want to speak too early, but Janet has ideas of maybe doing her own film,” the 30-year-old actor told GQ Middle East, suggesting her absence from “Michael” may partly be about wanting to control how her own story is eventually told. “So having someone portrayed in this and then choosing a different actor for her own is just...” he continued before trailing off.

As reported, Janet was notably absent from the film despite support from much of the Jackson family, including relatives who appeared as characters or consultants on the project. Sister La Toya Jackson, who was portrayed in the film by Jessica Sula, told Variety at the movie’s April premiere that Janet “was asked and she kindly declined” to be involved, adding, “So you have to respect her wishes.” Jaafar also described an emotional early screening for family members, recalling “sniffles” and emotional cousins before the room ultimately responded with hugs and support once they saw his portrayal.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, “Michael” has since crossed $1 billion at the global box office, becoming the highest-grossing biopic of all time, with a sequel already confirmed by distributor Lionsgate.