The stars of the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic Michael are taking center stage in the latest issue of Essence Magazine, featuring a stunning cover and in-depth photoshoot with Colman Domingo, Nia Long and Jaafar Jackson.
Shot on a bright March afternoon in Malibu, the feature captures the trio in an intimate yet vibrant setting, seated on a gold-paneled couch inside a private mansion overlooking the city’s rolling hills. Despite the busy atmosphere around them, the three actors appear fully immersed in conversation, reflecting a bond that mirrors the family dynamic they portray on screen.
“It was a really long shoot… so we had to love each other,” Long shared, highlighting the natural chemistry developed during filming.
In Michael, directed by Antoine Fuqua, Domingo, Long and Jackson take on the roles of Joe Jackson, Katherine Jackson and Michael Jackson, respectively. The film, nearly a decade in the making, aims to chronicle the King of Pop’s journey from his early days with the Jackson 5 to his global superstardom, while also exploring the humanity and complexities within the Jackson family.
The Essence feature emphasizes the responsibility felt by the cast in bringing this story to life. “The goal… was to just honor Michael in a way that would make the fans excited,” Long explained, noting the importance of telling the story authentically while respecting the legacy.
For Jaafar Jackson, the role carries deep personal significance. As Michael Jackson’s nephew and the son of Jermaine Jackson, expectations are naturally high, but his dedication has impressed both cast and crew. Spending over two years preparing, Jaafar trained with Michael’s former choreographers, lived in his uncle’s home environment, and fully immersed himself in the role.
“I’ve never seen anything like it,” Long said of his commitment, while Domingo praised his “top-notch” work ethic. Director Fuqua echoed that sentiment, noting Jaafar’s rare ability to truly embody the character.
The article also explores the film’s nuanced portrayal of Michael’s parents. Domingo’s interpretation of Joe Jackson seeks to go beyond the long-held public perception, offering insight into the motivations of a complex father figure. Meanwhile, Long brings warmth and strength to Katherine Jackson, portraying her as both a source of compassion and resilience within the family.
At its core, Michael is presented as a story about family, its love, tensions and enduring bonds. That theme extends beyond the screen, as the connection between the cast becomes evident both in the film and in moments like this Essence photoshoot.
Perhaps most touching is the reaction from Katherine Jackson herself, whose emotional response to the film left a lasting impact on Jaafar. “Your opinion… means everything to me,” he shared, underscoring the deeply personal nature of the project.
With this high-profile cover and feature, Michael continues to build momentum, offering fans a closer look not only at the film, but at the people entrusted with telling one of the most iconic stories in music history.
