The hugely anticipated biopic of pop icon Michael Jackson lands in theaters this week, but who is Jaafar Jackson, who takes on the titular role?
The long-awaiting and much-anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, imaginatively titled Michael, lands in theaters this week.
The movie focuses on the early years of Michael’s career, from his breakthrough as part of the Jackson 5 in the 1970s, through his evolution to a solo star and global pop icon in the 1980s.
While the film is controversial in some ways – due to the allegations about Michael’s conduct and how this is addressed – it is nonetheless set to be one of the biggest movies of the year.
One of the biggest stories in the making of the movie is the casting of Jaafar Jackson – Michel’s nephew – in the title role, and his performance. But who is Jaafar Jackson? Here are some facts you might not know.
He is Jermaine Jackson’s son
Jaafar is the son of Jermaine Jackson, one of Michael’s brothers and who performed with him in the Jackson 5. Jermaine was second vocalist to Michael and also played bass guitar in the group.
Jermaine left the Jackson 5 in 1976 and had solo hits in the 1980s, before rejoining the Jacksons later in the decade. He remained with various iterations of the group until 2020.
Jaafar is one of 12 siblings
Jaafar has 11 siblings through his father and mother’s (Alejandra Oaziaza) previous relationships – nine brothers and two sisters.
Along with his family, Jaafar was a part of the reality show Living with the Jacksons, which aired in 2015.
He once wanted to be a golfer
Being a member of the Jackson family, it is unsurprising that Jaafar has ended up in showbusiness. He started singing and dancing at the age of 12, and he has released singles in the past, such as 2019’s Got Me Singing.
But Jaafar hasn’t always wanted to go into the family business. Apparently for a time as a child he harboured an ambition to become a professional golfer. However, that never materialised.
Jaafar has fond memories of Michael
Michael passed away in 2009, when Jaafar was only 12, but he still retains fond memories of his uncle. Jaafar would often meet Michael at family gatherings, and he spent time at his Neverland ranch, which was famous for having its own theme park and zoo.
Speaking to NBC show Today, Jaafar said they would play, watch movies and eat candy together.
Jaafar has spent years perfecting his Michael moves
Jaafar has no real acting experience before taking on this role, but he was approached by the producer of Michael, Graham King, in 2020 with a view to taking on the role. As part of the audition process, Jaafar sent King a voice note of himself in character as Michael.
Michael was iconic for his singing and his dance moves, and Jaafar has spent years working with singing and dance coaches to ensure his performance is as close to his uncle’s as possible to give the film extra authenticity.
Indeed, Jaafar worked with coaches for a couple of years before he was confirmed in the role.
Jaafar is engaged
Jaafar has thus far kept his private life largely private. However, he did get engaged to his long-term girlfriend, Maddie Simpson, in February 2025. Maddie is a singer and content creator.
The pair began dating back in 2016, but have kept out of the limelight for the most part – although they did appear together at the Berlin premiere of Michael recently.
