‘Michael’ Rocks Box Office With Record-Setting $97 Million Debut
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- Lionsgate reports a $97 million domestic opening, the highest ever for a biopic.
- Jaafar Jackson debuts as Michael, drawing 61 % female and 66 % 25‑plus audiences per PostTrak.
- Rotten Tomatoes rates the film 38 % positive, reflecting critical disappointment.
- CinemaScore awards an A‑grade, indicating strong audience approval.
- Universal distributes internationally, helping reach $217 million worldwide weekend and targeting $700 million total.
- Antoine Fuqua directs after the 1993 molestation lawsuit scene was cut due to a settlement clause.
Why it matters: Lionsgate turns a $200M investment into a $97M opening and projected $700M run, boosting cash flow while critics lose sway as audiences drive the film’s success, will spur other studios to green‑budget high‑budget biopics.
