AceShowbiz - The highly anticipated biopic about the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, titled simply "Michael", has had its release date pushed back by six months. Originally set for release on April 18, 2025, Lionsgate has announced that the film will now hit theaters on October 3, 2025.

Despite the delay, the film's production has been completed, and Lionsgate is reportedly confident in what they have seen so far. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson's nephew, the biopic is expected to cover all aspects of Jackson's life and career, including his legal issues.

The cast also includes Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Kat Graham, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, Larenz Tate, Kendrick Sampson and Derek Luke. John Logan penned the script, and the film is produced by John Branca, David B. Householter, Graham King, John McClain and Justin Simien.

Lionsgate's decision to push the release date back to October is believed to be a strategic move to position the film for possible awards season recognition. Historically, films released towards the end of the year tend to receive more attention from award voters.

However, the earlier release date in April may have given the film a competitive advantage at the box office. October is a popular month for horror movies, which could compete with "Michael" for audience attention.

Nevertheless, Lionsgate's confidence in the film's potential for both awards and box office success remains strong. The studio is confident that "Michael" has the potential to be their biggest movie ever.

The film's trailer garnered a strong reaction at CinemaCon in Las Vegas in April, with critics praising Jaafar Jackson's performance and the film's exploration of the complexities of Michael Jackson's life and career.