LOS ANGELES – The King of Pop has reclaimed his throne. In its fourth weekend of release, the highly anticipated biopic Michael has returned to the No. 1 spot at the North American box office, proving that audience fascination with the legendary entertainer remains as strong as ever.
According to final studio estimates released Sunday, Michael earned a powerful **26.1million∗∗overtheweekend,pushingitsdomestictotalpastthe26.1million∗∗overtheweekend,pushingitsdomestictotalpastthe300 million mark. Globally, the film has now surpassed $700 million, cementing its status as one of the year’s biggest blockbusters.
The film, which had briefly slipped to second place last week following the release of a major superhero sequel, saw a notable rebound thanks to strong word-of-mouth and repeat viewings from dedicated fans.
“This is a remarkable hold for a film in its fourth weekend,” said box office analyst David Chen. “It speaks to the enduring legacy of Michael Jackson and the quality of the biopic itself. Audiences aren’t just showing up once — they’re coming back.”
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson (the singer’s real-life nephew) in the lead role, Michael traces the artist’s rise from child stardom with the Jackson 5 to his record-shatering solo career, while also addressing controversies that surrounded his life. Critics have praised Jaafar’s uncanny physical resemblance and vocal mimicry, with many calling it a career-making performance.
The film’s global haul now stands as the highest-grossing musical biopic since Bohemian Rhapsody (2018), and industry insiders predict it could cross the $1 billion mark before the end of its theatrical run.
ACM Awards Take Center Stage Tonight
Meanwhile, the entertainment world shifts its focus to country music tonight as the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards prepares to air live from Ford Center in Frisco, Texas.
Hosted by global superstar Shania Twain, the ceremony will stream exclusively on Prime Video beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT. This marks Twain’s second consecutive year as host, and she has promised a “high-energy, unforgettable night” filled with surprise collaborations.
Leading the nominations this year are Lainey Wilson (with eight nods) and Zach Bryan (with seven), while Chris Stapleton, Miranda Lambert, and Morgan Wallen are also expected to take the stage for performances.
Twain, who is also slated to perform a medley of her greatest hits, told reporters last week, “Country music has never been more diverse or exciting. I’m honored to be in the middle of it all tonight.”