Inside The Controversy Rocking Michael Jackson’s New Biopic

Universal Pictures is facing backlash over its plans for the premiere of the upcoming biopic Michael. The studio intends to hold the debut at London’s O2 Arena, featuring a holographic “resurrection” of the late pop star Michael Jackson.

The proposal has drawn strong criticism from Jackson’s family, who view the concept as tasteless and inappropriate.

“It’s ghoulish and deeply disrespectful,” the family told Radar Online.

Premiere Plans and Backlash

Universal’s event is set for next spring at the same venue where Jackson was scheduled to launch his This Is It concert residency in July 2009. The singer died at age 50, just 18 days before the first show. He had been rehearsing intensively for a planned 50 sold-out performances.

Insiders noted that the grueling schedule increased his dependence on the sedative propofol, the drug responsible for his death. Production sources say the studio hopes to use cutting-edge hologram technology to recreate some of Jackson’s final performances and attract thousands of fans.

Family’s Reaction

“Michael was a perfectionist,” one insider said. “He would have hated being digitally resurrected for marketing purposes.”

Family members have expressed anger that Universal may be exploiting his image yet again for profit. They argue that such a spectacle contradicts Jackson’s values and artistic integrity.

Universal’s Response

Studio executives are reportedly in discussions with Cineworld at the O2, saying the venue holds a special “emotional symmetry” as it was meant to host Jackson’s last major performances. Despite the controversy, Universal appears committed to moving forward with its ambitious premiere plan.

Author’s Summary

Universal faces fierce criticism for planning a holographic Michael Jackson premiere at the O2 Arena, with the star’s family decrying it as exploitative and disrespectful.

Koimoi — 2025-11-10