Inside the Controversy Surrounding Michael Jackson’s New Biopic
Universal’s upcoming biopic Michael has sparked a wave of criticism over the studio’s intention to debut the film at London’s O2 Arena using a holographic recreation of the late pop icon. The Jackson family has strongly opposed the idea, calling it disrespectful and exploitative.
Holographic Premiere Plan
According to reports, Universal aims to host the premiere with a digital projection that would “resurrect” Michael Jackson on stage. Studio representatives believe the venue holds emotional significance, as it was where Jackson was supposed to start his This Is It concert residency in July 2009.
Family Reaction
“It’s ghoulish and deeply disrespectful,” members of the Jackson family told Radar Online.
Insiders close to the family condemned the hologram proposal, noting that Jackson, known for his perfectionism, would never have approved such a digital recreation. One source emphasized,
“It feels like they’re trying to profit from his death again.”
The Legacy and the Loss
Michael Jackson died at the age of 50, just 18 days before his scheduled first concert at the O2 Arena. At the time, he was preparing for 50 sold-out shows — an intense schedule that reportedly contributed to his exhaustion and dependence on medical sedatives like propofol, which led to his fatal overdose.
Universal’s Perspective
Despite the backlash, Universal executives are said to be continuing negotiations with Cineworld at the O2. They argue that launching the film there delivers a sense of “emotional symmetry” to Jackson’s intended final performances.
Author’s Summary
The controversy over Universal’s holographic premiere of Michael highlights the tension between artistic tribute and exploitation in preserving the legacy of the late pop superstar.