The success of Michael, the biographical film celebrating the life, music and legacy of Michael Jackson, will receive further recognition this November when its cast and creative team are honoured with the Gotham Musical Tribute at the 36th Annual Gotham Film Awards.
The Gotham Film & Media Institute announced on October 16 that the team behind the Lionsgate production will receive the special tribute during the ceremony on Monday, November 30, 2026, at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City.
The award recognises the performers and filmmakers responsible for bringing Michael Jackson’s extraordinary story and music to the big screen.
Among those being honoured are director Antoine Fuqua, Jaafar Jackson, who portrays his uncle Michael in the film, actors Colman Domingo and Nia Long, and producer Graham King.
Jeffrey Sharp, Executive Director of The Gotham Film & Media Institute, said the organisation was delighted to honour the team for bringing Michael Jackson’s life, legend and music to the screen. He added that their work captures the humanity behind one of the world’s most celebrated artists.
Released in April 2026, Michael follows the King of Pop’s journey from his early days as the lead singer of The Jackson 5 to his rise as one of the most influential entertainers in music history. The film explores his life beyond the stage while recreating some of the iconic performances that helped define his early solo career.
Jaafar Jackson’s portrayal of his uncle has been one of the central talking points surrounding the production, with the film bringing Michael’s music and performances to a new generation of cinema audiences.
The movie has also achieved a major commercial milestone, surpassing $1 billion at the worldwide box office and becoming the highest-grossing biographical film of all time.
The Gotham Musical Tribute was introduced in 2025, when Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson received the honour for their work in Song Sung Blue.
The 36th Annual Gotham Film Awards will take place on November 30, with nominations scheduled to be announced on October 27.
With the film continuing to make headlines following its extraordinary theatrical run, this latest honour adds another significant moment to the journey of Michael and its celebration of the King of Pop’s enduring musical legacy.
