Paris Jackson's Notable Absence at Michael Jackson Biopic Premiere
The glittering premiere of the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, held at The Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California, saw a star-studded turnout of the Jackson family, with one glaring exception: Michael's daughter, Paris Jackson. Her absence underscored a public rift with the project, which has been in development for seven years.
Family Support Contrasts with Paris's Stance
While family members including Marlon Jackson, La Toya Jackson, Jermaine Jackson, Jackie Jackson, and Austin Brown graced the red carpet, Paris, 28, chose to stay away. Her brother Bigi, formerly known as Blanket, also did not attend this Los Angeles event, though he had been present at premieres in Berlin and Gary, Indiana. In contrast, Michael's son Prince Jackson, 29, who served as a producer on the film, was prominently featured, highlighting a divide within the family over the biopic.
Legal Disputes and Estate Tensions
Paris's absence is not merely a personal choice; it reflects ongoing legal battles. As a beneficiary of Michael Jackson's estate, estimated at around $2 billion, she has accused executors John Branca and John McClain of financial mishandling, allegations they deny. The biopic, produced in conjunction with the estate, has cost an estimated $155 million, with reports indicating $10 million to $15 million was spent on reshoots to remove references to child abuse allegations, following a 1994 settlement that prohibited mention of Jordan Chandler.
Paris's Public Distancing from the Project
In September, actor Colman Domingo, who plays Joe Jackson in the film, claimed Paris and Prince were "very supportive," but Paris quickly refuted this on social media. She clarified that she had no involvement, stating she provided notes on an early script draft but felt they were ignored. "I read one of the first drafts of the script and gave my notes about what was dishonest/didn’t sit right with me, and when they didn’t address it, I moved on with my life," she said. She further criticized the film for pandering to a specific fanbase and containing inaccuracies, urging others to "leave me out of it."
Production Details and Release
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Michael's nephew Jaafar Jackson in the lead role, the biopic has been a long-gestating project since 2019. A Lionsgate spokesperson confirmed that substantial footage was scrapped to comply with legal agreements. Despite the controversies, the film is set for release in cinemas on April 24, with Domingo expressing hope that Paris might eventually appreciate the tribute to her father.
