Michael Jackson Estate Condemns Paris Jackson's 'Irresponsible' Biopic Remarks
The executors of Michael Jackson's estate have issued a sharp rebuke to the late singer's daughter, Paris Jackson, following her public criticism of the upcoming biographical film about her father. The 27-year-old has repeatedly denounced the project, labeling it as "dishonest" and a "fantasy," while escalating her long-standing dispute with estate co-executors John Branca and John McClain.
Paris Jackson's Vocal Opposition to the Biopic
Paris Jackson has taken a firm stance against the Michael Jackson biopic, scheduled for release in April, arguing that it presents a version of events she does not recognize. She has broadly criticized biopics as "Hollywood" creations that are often "sold to you as real" despite being filled with "inaccuracy" and "full-blown lies." Her opposition extends to the estate's management, accusing Branca and McClain of financial mismanagement and lack of transparency since her father's death in 2009.
According to reports from TMZ, Paris claimed in court earlier this month that estate funds are being used to bankroll risky ventures, including the reported $150 million biopic, which she described as a "botched production." She specifically questioned the casting of Miles Teller as John Branca, suggesting it was an expensive choice with unclear commercial value. Additionally, she pointed to costly reshoots, arguing they may result from production issues and legal constraints related to previously filmed material.
"The estate has had to fund tens of millions of dollars in reshoots after the terms of a well-known settlement agreement prevented the production from using substantial amounts of footage already shot," Paris stated, highlighting her concerns over financial decisions.
Estate's Strong Defense and Counterarguments
In response, the estate's lawyers have strongly rejected Paris Jackson's claims, calling them "without merit" and accusing her of making "headline-grabbing" allegations. Attorney Jonathan Steinsapir, in a statement to TMZ, asserted that Paris and her legal team were raising issues that had already been addressed and were more focused on "media games" than factual accuracy.
Steinsapir defended the track record of Branca and McClain, emphasizing their role in transforming the estate from significant debt into a multi-billion-dollar business. He noted that exploring a major film about Jackson's life would be "irresponsible not to" given the success of similar music biopics in the industry.
"Ms. Jackson has already received roughly $65 million in benefits and stands to inherit many hundreds of millions more," Steinsapir said. "This is from an estate that was $500 million in debt and facing bankruptcy at the time of Michael's death, but was turned by the executors into a business generating billions in revenue."
Paris Jackson's Complete Disassociation from the Project
Paris has made it clear that she has no involvement in the biopic, despite claims to the contrary. She revealed that she reviewed an early draft of the script but felt her concerns were ignored, leading her to distance herself entirely. On social media, she famously wrote, "Not my monkeys, not my circus," to underscore her lack of participation.
This disassociation was further highlighted when actor Colman Domingo, who is set to portray Michael's father, Joe Jackson, in the film, suggested in a September interview with People that Michael's children had been supportive. "[Michael's kids Paris and Prince are] very much in support of our film," Domingo said, adding that Paris had been "very helpful" during the process.
Paris quickly denied these comments on her Instagram Story, writing, "@Kingofbingo don't be telling people I was helpful on the set of a movie I had 0% involvement in lol that is so weird." She clarified that while she had read an early script draft and provided feedback, her role ended there, and she moved on when her concerns were not addressed.
Background on the Biopic and Family Dynamics
The biopic, simply titled Michael, has faced years of delays since producer Graham King first secured rights in 2019. The project gained momentum after Michael's nephew, Jaafar Jackson, was cast to play the pop icon in 2023. Notably, Paris's brother, Prince, is supportive of the film and serves as a producer, highlighting a family divide over the project.
Michael Jackson, who died in 2009 at age 50, had a famously fraught relationship with his father, Joe Jackson, whom he wrote out of his will before his death. Joe passed away in 2018. Domingo, in his role, has expressed intent to approach the character with complexity and nuance, aiming to find "their humanity, heart, and humor" despite public opinion.
The ongoing dispute between Paris Jackson and the estate executors underscores the tensions surrounding the legacy of one of music's most iconic figures, as the biopic prepares for its highly anticipated release.
