Newsmakers

The biographical drama Michael has made history at the global box office, earning over $100 million worldwide in a single opening day, including preview screenings. The remarkable debut cements its position as the biggest opening day ever for a biopic and becoming the highest opening day of 2026 so far.

Domestically, the film delivered an impressive $40 million+ on day one, reflecting massive audience turnout and strong advance bookings. This achievement officially surpasses the previous biopic opening day records held by Oppenheimer and Bohemian Rhapsody.

Centered on the life and legacy of Michael Jackson, the film has drawn widespread attention from fans and moviegoers across the globe. Its powerful narrative, combined with the enduring popularity of Jackson’s music, has fueled unprecedented demand in theaters.

Industry analysts had predicted a strong opening given the enduring global appeal of Michael Jackson’s legacy. However, the scale of the debut has exceeded even the most optimistic projections. Advance bookings surged in the days leading up to the release, with theaters reporting sold-out shows in major markets including North America, Europe, and Asia.

Trade experts suggest that the film’s success is driven by a combination of nostalgia, curiosity, and the timeless popularity of Jackson’s music. The marketing campaign, which leaned heavily on iconic imagery and unreleased insights into the pop legend’s life, also played a crucial role in building anticipation.

With such a powerful start, Michael is now expected to maintain strong momentum over the coming weeks. If the current trend continues, it could emerge as one of the highest-grossing biographical films of all time.

As audiences continue to flock to cinemas, the film not only celebrates the life of a global icon but also signals a new era for biographical storytelling at the box office.