Michael Jackson biopic crosses $1 billion worldwide, beats Super Mario to become 2026’s biggest blockbuster

The Michael Jackson biopic Michael has achieved a historic milestone at the global box office, officially surpassing the $1 billion mark to become the highest-grossing film of 2026 worldwide.

According to industry box office tracking, the film has earned approximately $1.012 billion globally, overtaking The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which previously held the year’s top spot with around $1.011 billion in worldwide collections.

The achievement also marks a significant first for Lionsgate, giving the studio its maiden billion-dollar blockbuster.

A historic win for Lionsgate

For decades, Lionsgate has produced commercially successful franchises and acclaimed films, but Michael is now the first title in the studio’s history to enter the exclusive $1 billion club.

The film’s worldwide earnings currently stand at:

• North America: $372.3 million
• International markets: $640.2 million
• Worldwide total: $1.012 billion

Trade analysts expect the film to finish its theatrical run with worldwide earnings between $1.02 billion and $1.05 billion.

Japan and Russia helped push the film past the finish line

The final stretch of the box office race proved crucial.

Recent collections from Japan and Russia reportedly provided the additional revenue needed for Michael to edge past The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.

The film earned approximately $1.4 million in Japan and another $550,000 in Russia during the latest reporting period, enough to secure its position as the year’s biggest worldwide hit.

Critics divided, audiences embraced the film

One of the most remarkable aspects of Michael’s success is the sharp contrast between critical reviews and audience response.

The film currently holds a 38% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes, a rating that would normally indicate a difficult commercial run.

However, moviegoers responded very differently.

The biopic received an A- CinemaScore, reflecting strong audience satisfaction and helping generate positive word-of-mouth throughout its theatrical release.

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Instead of fading after opening weekend, the film maintained momentum for months as fans continued recommending it to others.

Jaafar Jackson’s performance wins over audiences

A major talking point has been the performance of Jaafar Jackson, the real-life nephew of Michael Jackson, who made his acting debut portraying the legendary singer.

Taking on the role of one of the world’s most recognisable entertainers was considered a significant challenge, but many audiences praised his performance for capturing the spirit and charisma of the King of Pop.

His portrayal has frequently been credited as one of the biggest reasons behind the film’s widespread audience appeal.

New records for the Michael Jackson biopic

Beyond becoming the highest-grossing film of 2026, Michael has rewritten the record books.

The film is now:

• The highest-grossing musical biopic of all time, surpassing Bohemian Rhapsody.
• The highest-grossing biographical film in cinema history, overtaking Oppenheimer.

The achievement highlights the enduring global popularity of Michael Jackson and demonstrates the continuing appeal of large-scale biographical dramas.

Sequel reportedly in development

Following the film’s extraordinary commercial success, reports suggest that Lionsgate has already approved a sequel that will explore additional chapters of Michael Jackson’s life.

While no official release date or storyline has been announced, expectations are high after the first film’s record-breaking performance.

For now, Michael stands as one of the biggest cinematic success stories of the year—a film that defied mixed critical reception, exceeded industry expectations and secured its place among the highest-grossing movies in Hollywood history.