Controversy Surrounds Michael Jackson Biopic Premiere
Universal Studios is facing backlash over its plan to debut the new Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, with a holographic performance of the late pop icon at London’s O2 Arena. This innovative approach has sparked strong objections from Jackson’s family, who describe it as disrespectful.
Holographic Premiere Plans
The studio intends to use hologram technology to recreate Jackson’s final performances during the film’s premiere at the O2 Arena — the same venue where Jackson was scheduled to start his This Is It residency in July 2009. Jackson passed away at 50, just 18 days before his first scheduled concert, after preparing for 50 sold-out shows. Sources say this intense schedule exacerbated his dependency on the sedative propofol, which ultimately caused his death.
Family Response
“Michael was a perfectionist. It feels like they’re trying to profit from his death again,” an insider shared, calling the digital resurrection “ghoulish” and “deeply disrespectful.”
The Jackson family has publicly condemned the holographic event, emphasizing that Michael Jackson would have despised being digitally revived for marketing purposes.
Universal’s Position
Despite the family's objections, Universal is negotiating with Cineworld to hold the premiere at the O2 Arena, citing the venue’s "emotional symmetry" with Jackson’s career milestones.
Key Facts
- Biopic titled Michael planned for spring release.
- Hologram of Michael Jackson's final performances to be featured.
- Premiere scheduled at London’s O2 Arena, site of planned This Is It concerts.
- Jackson’s family criticizes the hologram as disrespectful and exploitative.
Author's summary: The planned holographic premiere of Michael Jackson’s biopic at the O2 Arena has ignited family outrage, highlighting tensions between innovative marketing and respecting the artist’s legacy.
More News
- Ex-Prem hero scores six goals again for star-studded Sunday League team
- Inside The Controversy Rocking Michael Jackson’s New Biopic — You Won’t Believe What Universal Is Planning!
- 6 shot, 1 killed in trio of NYC shootings Sunday night
- As income inequality grows, a state senator renews the call to strengthen Rhode Island’s safety net - The Boston Globe
- Indigenous Australian who confronted King Charles III says she won't be 'shut down'
- McDonalds along busy Cambridge road wants to open for longer
- Indigenous Australian who confronted King Charles III says she won't be 'shut down'
- Mark Parton elected new leader of the Canberra Liberals | Canberra Daily
- Typhoon Fung-wong blows away from the Philippines, leaving 4 dead and 1.4 million displaced - The Boston Globe
- Does Sally Kirkland have children? All we know about Charlie’s Angels star’s family amid health struggles