Michael OTT release: When and where to watch Michael Jackson's biopic film

Michael has opened strongly in cinemas as viewers now wait for its home release. The biopic is expected on Prime Video soon after its theatrical run.

In Short

• Jaafar Jackson leads the biopic with Domingo, Nia Long and Miles Teller
• The story traces Jackson's childhood fame and early solo years onstage
• It ends in 1988, excluding allegations that emerged in later years

After a strong theatrical debut, Michael is now turning the spotlight on its next big question: when can audiences watch it at home? The biopic on Michael Jackson, starring Jaafar Jackson, released in theatres on April 24 and has posted solid numbers at the global box office. As the film continues its run, attention has shifted to its digital and streaming rollout.

A record start at the box office

More than three years after it was first announced, Michael arrived in cinemas with Jaafar Jackson stepping into the role of his late uncle. The cast also features Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, and Miles Teller as John Branca.

According to Box Office Mojo, the film collected $97 million domestically and $217 million overseas in its opening weekend, taking its worldwide total to $314 million. The figures mark the biggest opening weekend recorded for a biopic.

About Michael

The film traces Michael Jackson’s journey from his early days with the Jackson 5 to his rise as a global solo star. It focuses on both his life off-stage and some of his most recognisable performances from his early solo career, offering a closer look at the artist behind the phenomenon.

Notably, the narrative concludes in 1988 and does not cover the controversies and allegations that surfaced in the later years of his life.

Where will Michael stream?

Michael is distributed by Lionsgate, which has an existing multi-year licensing agreement with Amazon. As per current expectations, the film will follow a staggered release pattern.

It is likely to debut first on the premium network Starz, before moving to Prime Video at a later stage.

Before its subscription streaming release, the film is expected to arrive on premium video-on-demand platforms, including Prime Video, Apple TV and Fandango at Home, where it will be available to rent or purchase.

When will Michael release on OTT?

As per Forbes, films typically arrive on digital platforms within 45 to 65 days of their theatrical release. If Michael follows a similar window, it could be available for rent or purchase by mid-June 2026.

For its subscription streaming debut, Lionsgate titles have historically taken around four to five months to land on Starz. Going by that trend, Michael could arrive on Starz first, followed by availability on Prime Video. However, an official streaming date has not been announced yet.

What to watch meanwhile

For those looking to revisit Michael Jackson’s legacy on screen, Michael Jackson’s This Is It – a 2009 documentary capturing rehearsals for his planned London concerts – is currently available to stream on multiple platforms.

For now, Michael continues its theatrical run, with its digital release expected to lead into a wider streaming rollout in the months ahead.

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