The highly anticipated motion picture “Michael” will be available in theaters for limited Early Access screenings on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, Lionsgate announced today. The film opens nationwide on April 24.

The Early Access screenings will be presented exclusively in premium formats, including IMAX and Dolby, with superior picture and sound quality. The one-night only early screenings will take place on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 — two days before the film’s nationwide opening on April 24. A limited number of showtimes are available.

Tickets for these special screenings will go on sale beginning at 9am PT / Noon ET tomorrow at all advance ticket sites.

Tickets for the film’s general release will go on sale at a later date.

Kevin Grayson, president, Worldwide Distribution for the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, said: “For Michael Jackson’s fans, ‘Michael’ is the cinematic event they’ve been waiting for—the movie captures both the soul and the spectacle of the boy who became the King of Pop. These early access screenings, in IMAX and premium large formats, will immerse audiences in the electrifying performances and bring the power of Michael Jackson’s iconic music to life. It’s the perfect way to be the first to see the movie.”

In honor of the anniversary of “Billie Jean’s” debut on MTV, Lionsgate partnered with Paramount Advertising’s branded content studio Paramount Media Labs to mark the moment with a special Early Access ticket announcement, complete with the iconic MTV News desk and an appearance by MTV VJ legend Bill Bellamy. Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” short film was the first music video by a Black artist played in heavy rotation on MTV, a pivotal moment that spurred a transformative shift in music, culture and representation.

“Michael” is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of The Jackson 5, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world. Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.

“Michael” stars Jaafar Jackson in his feature film debut as his uncle, Michael Jackson. The film also stars Nia Long, Juliano Valdi, KeiLyn Durrel Jones, Laura Harrier, with Miles Teller, and Colman Domingo. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by three-time Oscar nominee John Logan, the film is produced by Graham King, p.g.a., John Branca, and John McClain.

“Michael” will be distributed domestically by Lionsgate, and by Universal in international markets outside of Japan, where it will be distributed by Kino Films in association with Lionsgate.

About Lionsgate
Lionsgate (NYSE: LION) is one of the world’s leading standalone, pure play content companies. It brings together diversified motion picture and television production and distribution businesses, a world-class portfolio of valuable brands and franchises, a premier talent management and production powerhouse at 3 Arts Entertainment and a more than 20,000-title film and television library, all driven by Lionsgate’s bold and entrepreneurial culture.