Michael Jackson Biopic Slammed as “Complete Lies” PR Campaign Aimed at Correcting His Image
The world was sent into a frenzy when news broke that the beloved music icon Michael Jackson had been involved in a child abuse case. His illustrious career did not have a speck of dust with everyone loving his songs and the way he enthralled an audience with his dance moves. But in 1993 and again in 2003, the performer faced legal charges that threatened to destroy his reputation altogether. Even after his death, Jackson’s legacy was tainted with such accusations.
Dan Reed Comments on Upcoming Michael Jackson Biopic
The trend of making biopics continues as the singer’s real-life nephew Jafaar Jackson puts on his dancing shoes to portray Michael Jackson in his biopic. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by Oscar-nominated writer John Logan, the movie is marketed as a true story based on the world-renowned artist’s life and journey to stardom. Titled Michael, the movie is set to release next year amid a flurry of controversies and debate.
Also Read: Michael Jackson’s Anti-Gravity Shoes Invention Everyone Forgets Exists
A documentary was made on Jackson’s life where Wade Robson and James Safechuck claimed he abused them as children. Leaving Neverland was directed by Dan Reed, who has recently commented on the script of the upcoming movie. The Times of London published a story on the same, where Reed is quoted saying,
“It’s an out-and-out attempt to completely rewrite the allegations and dismiss them out of hand, and contains complete lies. You never even see him alone with any boys, when it is a matter of fact that he shared his bed with small children for many years.”
It seems like the movie, similar to the musical MJ that is set to perform in London soon, is ignoring all allegations and legal cases to keep Jackson’s legacy spot-free. Some are even claiming the biopic attempts to rewrite the singer’s life to eliminate all painful aspects that ruin his image in the media. The movie takes on a deeper approach by showing Jackson’s struggles with his own abusive father, played by Colman Domingo. Nonetheless, it cannot possibly erase the trauma and pain suffered by the victims of s*xual abuse at the hands of Jackson.
Michael is set to have a global theatrical release on April 18, 2025.
Was Michael Jackson Guilty of S*xual Abuse?
It all started in 1993 when Evan Chandler accused Michael Jackson of having an inappropriate relationship with his son Jordon. Initially, they agreed to settle it financially but they could not decide on an amount. The case later went to court, but the Chandlers refused to cooperate, forcing the case to be shut. In 2005, another case made headlines only to find Jackson not guilty on all charges.
However, the case led to a decline in Jackson’s popularity and public standing. His brand deals were rescinded and his record sales also dropped. Some claim the cases were nothing but accusations made to extort money from one of the world’s best musicians. On the other hand, the documentary Leaving Neverland introduced people who also accused the musician of the same crime. Amidst all the confusion, we cannot deny the media’s involvement in distorting truths and presenting half facts.
