The Michael Jackson biopic launched to $97 million domestically and $217 million worldwide in its first weekend, overtaking the long-standing benchmark set by ‘Straight Outta Compton’ and immediately ranking among 2026’s strongest theatrical starts.
Audience response outpaced critics, with the film earning an A- CinemaScore and drawing broad turnout across age groups. Premium large-format screens were a major driver, accounting for roughly 14% of North American ticket sales.
Backed by Lionsgate, Universal, and the Michael Jackson estate on a reported ~$200 million budget, the release is already pacing toward a possible $700 million global run, territory that would place it among the studio’s biggest modern-era hits.
(via @variety)
The Michael Jackson biopic launched to $97 million domestically and $217 million worldwide in its first weekend, overtaking the long-standing benchmark set by ‘Straight Outta Compton’ and immediately ranking among 2026’s strongest theatrical starts.
Audience response outpaced critics, with the film earning an A- CinemaScore and drawing broad turnout across age groups. Premium large-format screens were a major driver, accounting for roughly 14% of North American ticket sales.
Backed by Lionsgate, Universal, and the Michael Jackson estate on a reported ~$200 million budget, the release is already pacing toward a possible $700 million global run, territory that would place it among the studio’s biggest modern-era hits.
(via @variety)
