Jackson’s rise continues: ‘michael’ shatters biopic records, but uk performance falls short
Michael, the authorized biopic of Michael Jackson, delivered a stunning global debut, exceeding $217 million at the box office and potentially poised to become the first music film to surpass $1 billion in revenue. But the film’s success story isn’t uniform – a notably weaker performance in the UK market presents a fascinating counterpoint to its blockbuster run.
A global phenomenon, yet uneven reception
In the United States, the film trounced Bohemian Rhapsody, Graham King’s iconic 2018 hit, by a remarkable 90%, amassing $97 million domestically. That’s a figure that demands attention, especially considering the established pedigree of the film it surpassed. However, across the Atlantic, the reception was considerably cooler. Michael grossed £11.6 million in the UK, compared to Bohemian Rhapsody’s £6.4 million – a ratio of 81%.
Despite this lower return, Universal Studios is celebrating a resounding success, capturing 68% of all box office revenue in the UK and Ireland over the three-day weekend. The film's opening weekend was a clear victor, dominating the charts and demonstrating a significant, albeit localized, audience appetite for Jackson’s story.
Competing films, including Rocketman (£4 million), Elvis (£4 million), and A Complete Unknown (£2.6 million), offered modest alternatives, while The Super Mario Galaxy Movie maintained its position as the biggest opening of 2026, securing £15 million. The film’s global total, currently standing at $217 million, is bolstered by a projected $161 million earned internationally, with Japan remaining the final frontier for its potential to reach that monumental $1 billion milestone.
This unprecedented achievement underscores the enduring legacy of Michael Jackson and the film’s impressive ability to resonate with a broad audience, regardless of geographical boundaries. It’s a testament to the power of a compelling story, expertly executed, and fueled by a cultural icon’s enduring mystique.