Michael Jackson Biopic Shatters Box Office Records With Massive $217 Million Global Opening

The Michael Jackson biopic "Michael" just moonwalked its way into the record books. The film shattered every music biopic record in existence with a staggering $97 million domestic opening and $217 million globally, crushing "Bohemian Rhapsody" by 90% and proving that the King of Pop still reigns supreme.

Michael Jackson Film Breaks Every Biopic Record

The numbers are nothing short of extraordinary. "Michael" pulled in $97 million at the North American box office on its opening weekend, far surpassing industry estimates that had projected up to $70 million. Globally, the film raked in $217 million, making it the sixth highest grossing film of 2026 after just one weekend.

The film obliterated the previous record holder for biggest music biopic opening, "Bohemian Rhapsody," which debuted with $51 million in 2018. It also crushed "Straight Outta Compton," which opened to $60 million in 2015. No music biopic has ever come close to these numbers.

On IMAX screens alone, "Michael" earned $24.4 million worldwide, marking the biggest IMAX debut for a musical biopic ever. Of that total, $13.8 million came from 427 North American screens.

Critics Divided But Audiences Show Up In Force

What makes the box office performance even more remarkable is that "Michael" received mixed reviews from critics. The film, co produced by the Jackson estate, was criticized by some reviewers for its handling of certain aspects of Michael Jackson's life and legacy.

But audiences clearly did not care about the critical reception. The film's massive opening weekend demonstrates the enduring power of Michael Jackson's brand and the global appetite for his story. Fans packed theaters worldwide, many attending multiple screenings.

"This is a testament to Michael Jackson's legacy. His music and his story transcend generations," one industry analyst noted about the record breaking performance.

What The Box Office Means For Music Biopics

The success of "Michael" is expected to trigger a new wave of music biopics in Hollywood. Studios have already been developing projects about various iconic artists, and these numbers will only accelerate those plans.

The film's performance also raises questions about the relationship between critical reception and commercial success. In an era where audiences increasingly make their own decisions independent of reviews, "Michael" is proof that star power and cultural significance can override critical consensus.

Internationally, the film earned $120 million from 82 territories, with several major markets including Korea and Japan still to open. The final global total could climb significantly higher in the coming weeks.

Have you seen "Michael" yet? Does the King of Pop deserve this record breaking moment?