The Michael Jackson biopic has hit a setback in its awards-season campaign after the Golden Globes committee rejected Lionsgate’s attempt to submit the film in the Musical or Comedy categories for the 2027 ceremony.
The decision means Michael, which stars the late singer’s nephew Jaafar Jackson as the King of Pop, is expected to compete in the drama categories unless Lionsgate successfully appeals the ruling. The classification could put the film up against major productions, including Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey.
According to reports by TheWrap, the committee determined that the film did not meet the requirements for the Musical or Comedy categories, despite featuring recreations of Michael Jackson’s iconic musical performances.
Why the Golden Globes Rejected the Submission
Under Golden Globes rules, a musical can fall under either comedy or drama, but its songs must work alongside spoken dialogue to advance the plot. The committee reportedly concluded that the musical performances in the Michael Jackson biopic did not sufficiently drive the storyline to qualify under that definition.
The decision highlights the distinction between a film that features music and one that meets the awards body’s specific definition of a musical. Music biopics have previously competed in drama categories, including Bohemian Rhapsody and Elvis.
For Lionsgate, the ruling changes the category the film will pursue during the upcoming awards season. Drama categories can be particularly competitive, with a limited number of nomination spots available to films and performances.
What the Decision Means for Jaafar Jackson
Jaafar Jackson takes on the challenging role of portraying his famous uncle, tracing the singer’s journey from his early years with the Jackson 5 to his rise as a global solo superstar. The film marks a major screen role for the younger Jackson, whose resemblance to Michael has drawn considerable attention.
The category decision could affect how the film is positioned during the awards campaign, although it does not automatically rule out recognition for the movie or its cast.
Colman Domingo and Nia Long, who portray Michael Jackson’s parents, Joe and Katherine Jackson, remain eligible for the supporting actor and supporting actress categories. Those categories cover performances across film genres, so the committee’s ruling does not change their eligibility on that basis.
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Lionsgate Can Still Appeal
The decision may not be final. According to TheWrap, Lionsgate has until October 31, 2026, to challenge the ruling before the submission deadline.
An appeal would give the studio another opportunity to argue that the Michael Jackson biopic qualifies for the Musical or Comedy categories. Until any appeal is resolved, however, the film is expected to proceed under the committee’s current classification.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, Michael follows the singer’s early years with the Jackson 5 and his transformation into one of the most influential entertainers in music history.
The 84th Golden Globes nominations are scheduled to be announced on December 7, 2026, with the ceremony set for January 10, 2027. The outcome of Lionsgate’s potential appeal could become an important part of the film’s awards-season story as the ceremony approaches.
