Colman Domingo has been cast to play Michael Jackson’s stern father Joe Jackson in the upcoming “Michael” biopic.
Domingo, 54, is excited to play Michael’s father in the biographical movie scheduled for release in April 2025 with a $120 million budget.
“I’m excited to be a part of a film that explores both the complicated soul of the legendary Michael Jackson as well as his impact on music and culture as a global icon,” Domingo said in a press release on Thursday.
Domingo also spoke highly of Joe’s grandson, Jaafar, who plays his uncle Michael in the biopic. Jaafar is the son of J5 member Jermaine Jackson.
“After seeing him in rehearsal, my mind was blown,” Domingo said of Jaafar, pictured above.
“There is something divine about the way that Jaafar is channeling his late uncle. His talent and embodiment of Michael’s essence is simply on another level,” Domingo added.
Domingo was recently nominated for an Academy Award for his role in “Rustin,” about gay rights activist Rustin Bayard.
Joe (center) is pictured with his sons (clockwise from left) Jackie, Tito, Marlon, Jermaine, Michael, and Randy, in 1970.
Motown Records signed the Jackson 5 to a record deal in March 1969. Their debut album, Diana Ross Presents The Jackson 5, was released in December 1969.
(L-R:) Tito, Joe, Michael, Randy, Jackie, Jermaine, and Marlon, posed for a photo shoot at their Encino, California home in 1972.
Biopic director Antoine Fuqua said Domingo has “incredible range” as an actor.
“He puts in the work to deeply inhabit his characters and understand their true essence and motivation. I’m grateful to be working with an actor with his passion and ability to portray the many sides of Joe Jackson: a husband, a father and a manager.”
