Lionsgate is reportedly hoping to get to work on the “Michael” sequel shortly.
Speaking during an earnings call earlier today, Lionsgate’s motion picture chief Adam Fogelson says the studio aims to begin production in late 2026 or early 2027 in the hopes of a late 2027/early 2028 release.
The Antoine Fuqua-directed “Michael,” which chronicles the performer’s journey from the Jackson 5 to global star, currently ends with 1987’s “Bad” tour which became one of the highest-grossing concert tours at the time.
Though a timeline hasn’t been stated, there’s plenty of material to mine from other hits from the “Bad” album including “Smooth Criminal,” “The Way You Make Me Feel” and “Leave Me Alone”.
It could then head into the 1991 album “Dangerous” with its hits like “Black or White” and “Remember the Time,” followed by the multiple allegations of child sexual abuse that would follow Jackson for the rest of his life.
Fuqua famously cut out much of the film’s third act, with some of the footage expected to be repurposed and expanded into the new film. Fogelson confirmed that on Thursday’s call, saying:
“We have a number of sequences, particularly some big musical sequences, that were shot previously, that are almost sure to be incorporated. We are mostly focused right now on how to make sure we can deliver, at the right price, the biggest, best sequel. That is what the audience is going to want and deserve after the experience we gave them the first time. [We’re] not ready to give guidance on the budget yet.”
“Michael” has been one of the biggest hits of the year, grossing $1.021 billion off a $155 million budget.
Source: Variety
