Michael Jackson remains one of the world's biggest music icons, with a legacy that has endured across generations.
His life and death seemed straight out of a movie, so the announcement of a biopic about the 'King of Pop' has sparked excitement everywhere, especially with the news that another Jackson will play him on the big screen. But who is it?
The answer to that question is Jaafar Jackson, Michael's nephew. Born on July 25, 1996, in Los Angeles, this young actor, singer, and dancer is the son of Jermaine Jackson, Michael's brother, and Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza, of Colombian descent, making Jaafar a Colombian-American.
Jaafar's journey in music and dance began at the age of 12, showing that talent truly runs in the Jackson family. Alongside music, he once considered a career in professional golf, although this ultimately became just an idea.
He appeared in the reality show 'The Jacksons: Next Generation,' where the iconic family showcased the challenges of a new generation.
Eventually, Jaafar chose to pursue music and used social media to share his talent with the world. In 2019, he surprised audiences with his debut single, 'Got Me Singing,' an R&B track about the thrill of love, complete with a music video shot in Rio de Janeiro that highlighted his dancing skills.
His successful debut strengthened his bond with his family, and two years later, his late uncle Tito Jackson invited him to appear in the music video for 'Love One Another.'
That same year, Jaafar began an intensive casting process to play his uncle Michael in the biopic. Despite having no prior acting experience, he impressed the team not only with his physical resemblance to Michael but also with the essence he conveyed. After two years of auditions, Jaafar was officially cast in 2023. His performance won over both the film's producers and Michael's mother, Katherine Jackson, who said Jaafar embodied her son's spirit.
Upon the announcement, Jaafar expressed his gratitude, saying he felt "honored to bring my uncle Michael's story to life. To all his fans around the world, see you soon." He shared these words on Instagram alongside a photo of himself rehearsing.
Filming began in January of this year, and the movie is expected to premiere in 2025, directed by Antoine Fuqua and distributed by Lionsgate. The project also stars Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, the family patriarch and manager of his children.
For now, fans eagerly await the release, and each leaked photo of Jaafar on set only fuels the anticipation, showing the striking resemblance between the 28-year-old and his legendary uncle.
© 2024 Latin Times. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
