The director of the controversial 2019 documentary Leaving Neverland has described Michael Jackson as 'worse than Jeffrey Epstein' in a scathing new interview. Dan Reed, who helmed the Emmy-winning exposé, also criticised the upcoming Jackson biopic, Michael, for omitting the child abuse allegations that have long surrounded the late pop star.
Reed's Harsh Assessment
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Reed stated, 'How can you tell an authentic story about Michael Jackson without ever mentioning the fact that he was seriously accused of being a child molester?' He further asserted, 'I think Jackson was genuinely a very nasty man and hurt a lot of children.' Reed emphasised that Jackson's talent as an entertainer does not excuse his alleged actions, adding, 'Pedophiles exist, and he was one of them, and he made those choices.'
Leaving Neverland's Disappearance
Reed also addressed why Leaving Neverland was removed from streaming platforms in 2024. He explained that the Jackson estate invoked a non-disparagement clause from a 1992 contract with HBO, which the estate argued applied indefinitely. 'Somehow the estate managed to persuade HBO to come to an amicable settlement,' Reed said. He noted that he will regain the rights to the documentary in 2029 and plans to make it available again.
Follow-Up Documentary
Reed is currently working on a sequel to Leaving Neverland, focusing again on Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who allege they were abused by Jackson. The pair are seeking $400 million from Jackson's estate. Reed previously released Leaving Neverland 2: Surviving Michael Jackson on YouTube.
Biopic Backlash
The new Jackson biopic, directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jackson's nephew Jaafar Jackson, has faced harsh reviews for its sanitised portrayal. Critics have called it 'bland and barely competent' (BBC News) and 'simplistic, unchallenging, and riddled with egregious omissions' (Daily Mail). The film originally included the abuse allegations but cut them due to a settlement clause with accuser Jordan Chandler.
Despite the controversy, the film is projected to open with $150 million worldwide. Key figures like Janet Jackson and Paris Jackson declined to participate.
