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  "path": "/latest/jaafar-jackson-shocks-fans-as-michael-smashes-box-office-records/",
  "publishedAt": "2026-04-24T08:37:22.000Z",
  "site": "https://humenglish.com",
  "tags": [
    "Entertainment",
    "Latest",
    "Jaafar Jackson shocks fans as ‘Michael’ smashes box office records",
    "HUM News English"
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  "textContent": "Jaafar Jackson is suddenly at the centre of the conversation as  _Michael_ explodes out of the gate with record-breaking preview numbers.\n\nThe highly anticipated biopic has earned between $12.5 million and $13.5 million in early previews, making it the biggest preview debut ever for a musical biopic and putting it ahead of major releases like  _Dune: Part Two_ and  _Oppenheimer_.\n\nBut beyond the numbers, it is Jaafar Jackson’s performance as Michael Jackson that is driving the buzz.\n\n\n\n\n\n## All eyes on Jaafar Jackson\n\nPlaying his iconic uncle on screen, Jaafar Jackson has quickly emerged as the film’s biggest surprise.\n\nEarly audience reactions suggest viewers are strongly connecting with his portrayal, with many pointing to his performance as a key reason behind the film’s strong reception.\n\nOn Rotten Tomatoes,  _Michael_ currently holds a 96 per cent audience score, signalling overwhelming approval from viewers.\n\nThe film’s focus on music, performance and spectacle appears to be resonating, particularly with fans of the late pop star.\n\n## Critics split as fans show up\n\nWhile audiences are responding positively, critics have been far more divided.\n\nThe film currently holds a much lower 40 per cent critic score, with some reviewers questioning its approach to the more controversial aspects of Jackson’s life.\n\nDespite that, the box office numbers suggest that audience interest is outweighing critical hesitation.\n\n## A record-breaking start\n\nThe film’s early performance has already set new benchmarks for the genre.\n\n_Straight Outta Compton_ previously held the record for musical biopic previews with $4.96 million.  _Michael_ has more than doubled that figure before its full release.\n\nInternationally, the film has also made a strong impact, earning $18.5 million on its first day overseas and breaking records in several markets.\n\n## A breakout moment\n\nDirected by Antoine Fuqua,  _Michael_ is shaping up to be one of the biggest releases of the year.\n\nBut if early reactions are anything to go by, the real story might be Jaafar Jackson himself, whose performance is quickly turning him into the film’s breakout star.\n\nFor now, the numbers and the buzz are pointing in the same direction: audiences are watching, and they are paying attention.\n\nThe post Jaafar Jackson shocks fans as ‘Michael’ smashes box office records appeared first on HUM News English.",
  "title": "Jaafar Jackson shocks fans as ‘Michael’ smashes box office records"
}