LOS ANGELES — The highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic Michael has sparked conversations not just for its box office success, but for who’s not in it. Among the most notable absences: Janet Jackson, the pop icon whose own legendary career has often been intertwined with her brother’s.
At the film’s Hollywood premiere on April 20, 2026, La Toya Jackson revealed the reason behind her sister’s exclusion. Speaking to Variety on the red carpet, she confirmed that Janet was approached about being included in the film but “kindly declined.”
“I wish everybody was in the movie,” La Toya told reporters. “She was asked and she kindly declined, so you have to respect her wishes.”
The revelation puts to rest speculation about family tensions surrounding the project. Earlier reports from TMZ suggested friction between Janet and her brother Jermaine Jackson over the film’s portrayal of their family. But La Toya dismissed those claims outright in a separate interview with Entertainment Tonight.
“There was absolutely no problem whatsoever,” she insisted. “None whatsoever, and please believe that.”
Director Antoine Fuqua, who helmed the film, echoed La Toya’s sentiments. “I would love Janet to be there,” he told Variety. “I have so much respect and love for Janet, but it’s OK. She’s supportive of Jaafar, and that’s what matters.”
The film, which traces Michael Jackson’s rise from child star to global superstar, stars his nephew Jaafar Jackson in the title role. Other family members portrayed include Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson and Nia Long as Katherine Jackson. La Toya herself appears in the film, played by Jessica Sula, though her role is minor.
The premiere drew several Jackson family members, including Jermaine, Jackie, and Marlon Jackson. But two other high-profile figures were notably absent: Janet Jackson and Michael’s daughter, Paris Jackson. Rebbie Jackson, the eldest of the Jackson siblings, also skipped the event.
While Michael has faced criticism for its handling of certain aspects of the singer’s life—including allegations that have long shadowed his legacy—its box office performance has been undeniable. Early projections estimate the film will debut with $150 million globally, despite mixed reviews.
The absence of Janet Jackson, whose own chart-topping career has often been compared to her brother’s, adds another layer of intrigue to the film’s reception. As one of the few Jackson siblings not depicted in the biopic, her decision to step back highlights the complexities of family legacies in Hollywood—and the personal boundaries even the closest relatives may choose to maintain.
For fans, the film offers a rare glimpse into Michael Jackson’s early years, with Jaafar Jackson’s performance drawing praise from family members. Marlon Jackson called it “absolutely excellent,” telling reporters, “Watching the movie, sometimes we think we’re watching Michael up there—that’s how fine he is.”
La Toya echoed the sentiment, saying she often forgot she was watching her nephew. “I thought I was watching my brother,” she admitted.
As Michael continues its theatrical run, the conversation around who’s included—and who’s not—remains as much a part of the story as the film itself.
