The highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, titled “Michael,” has made a significant impact at the box office, achieving the biggest preview haul of the year with $12.6 million in North American previews. This figure surpasses previous 2024 preview records set by “Project Hail Mary” ($12 million in March) and “Scream 7” ($7.8 million in February). A substantial portion of “Michael’s” preview earnings, $3.8 million, came from early access screenings held on Wednesday.

Despite initial poor reviews and reports of costly behind-the-scenes turmoil during its production, projections for “Michael” have steadily risen. Lionsgate's film, which chronicles the life of the King of Pop, initially tracked with opening weekend estimates around $60 million. However, current expectations place its opening weekend earnings between $65 million and $75 million, with some exhibitors predicting the final domestic number could approach $80 million. Should these figures materialize, “Michael” would set a new record for a musical biopic opening, surpassing 2018’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” ($51 million) and 2015’s “Straight Outta Compton” ($60 million).

The film is also poised for a strong international performance. Projections indicate an international box office collection of $75 million to $80 million from 82 markets. “Michael” debuted in several foreign territories on Wednesday, earning an impressive $18.5 million on its opening day overseas. Globally, the biopic is expected to amass at least $140 million to $150 million by Sunday, with Universal overseeing its overseas distribution.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua, “Michael” traces the singer’s journey from his early days with the Jackson 5 to his transformation into one of the world's most iconic entertainers. Michael Jackson’s real-life nephew, Jaafar Jackson, portrays the legendary artist, while Colman Domingo and Nia Long play his parents, Joe and Katherine Jackson.

The production of “Michael” was a costly endeavor, with an estimated budget of at least $170 million, making it one of the most expensive biopics ever made. The film reportedly underwent major reshoots, adding tens of millions to its budget, after its third act had to be scrapped. The original screenplay had included a depiction of a 1993 lawsuit accusing Jackson of child sexual abuse, which he denied. However, after filming, producers discovered a clause in the settlement with the young accuser that legally prohibited his depiction or mention in any film or television production.

Given the strong box office predictions, Lionsgate is reportedly planning to produce at least one more film detailing Jackson’s life, should “Michael” achieve the anticipated financial success.