Michael Jackson Biopic “Michael” Moves to Fall 2025, Along with Aziz Ansari’s “Good Fortune”

Lionsgate has officially moved the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, directed by Antoine Fuqua, to a fall 2025 release, locking in a new date for October 3. This shift places the film, which stars Jaafar Jackson as the iconic King of Pop, right in the heart of the fall awards season, positioning it for greater visibility. Additionally, Aziz Ansari’s upcoming comedy Good Fortune, starring Keanu Reeves and Seth Rogen, will hit theaters on October 17, 2025. These strategic moves are poised to bring both films into fierce competition at the box office.

Michael Jackson Biopic: “Michael” Gets a New Release Date

Lionsgate’s Michael, the long-awaited biopic on the legendary pop star, is shifting from its previous Easter weekend slot in April 2025 to a new fall 2025 release on October 3. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by Graham King (known for his work on Bohemian Rhapsody), the film promises an in-depth exploration of Michael Jackson’s complex life—revealing both the public and private struggles of the King of Pop.

The biopic stars Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, in the titular role. Alongside Jaafar Jackson, Michael also features an impressive cast, including Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Miles Teller, and Colman Domingo. The movie will face competition from the release of Roofman, a true crime thriller starring Channing Tatum, set to open one week earlier.

Fuqua’s biographical drama aims to capture Jackson’s multifaceted legacy and address the controversies surrounding his life, which will no doubt spark debate among audiences and critics alike. With the success of Bohemian Rhapsody in 2018, which earned four Academy Awards and a worldwide box office gross of nearly $1 billion, Michael has huge potential for both critical acclaim and box office success.

Aziz Ansari’s “Good Fortune” to Compete with Horror Films

In a lighter move, Aziz Ansari’s comedy Good Fortune will open just two weeks after Michael, on October 17, 2025. The film features Ansari as a struggling gig worker who gets entangled in the lives of two very different characters—a meddling, bumbling angel played by Keanu Reeves and a wealthy businessman portrayed by Seth Rogen. The first footage from Good Fortune already had audiences laughing during its CinemaCon debut earlier this year, setting high expectations for its comedic tone.

Produced by Ansari alongside Anthony Katagas and Alan Yang, Good Fortune is expected to be a major player in the fall box office season, especially with its star power and unique premise. However, the film will face stiff competition, as it’s scheduled to release the same weekend as the highly anticipated Black Phone 2, from Universal and Blumhouse Productions.

Awards Buzz and Competition in Fall 2025

Both films are set for an intense battle in the fall 2025 season, with Michael vying for awards recognition and critical acclaim, and Good Fortune aiming for success in the comedy category. If Michael performs as well as Bohemian Rhapsody, it could be a major contender during the Oscars, which might further fuel interest in the biopic. Meanwhile, Good Fortune offers a refreshing comedic break, featuring strong performances from Ansari, Reeves, and Rogen, with a unique, feel-good story at its core.

The fall 2025 schedule is packed with high-profile releases, and these two films will likely draw considerable attention as they compete against other major contenders. Fans of Michael Jackson’s legacy, as well as lovers of comedy, have a lot to look forward to.

Conclusion

Lionsgate’s shifting of the Michael Jackson biopic and the release of Aziz Ansari’s Good Fortune are shaping up to be two of the most anticipated films of fall 2025. As these movies carve out their places in the box office, both will undoubtedly generate buzz and captivate audiences. Whether you’re in the mood for an emotional, star-studded biopic or a light-hearted, comedic romp, fall 2025 promises a lot of excitement at the movies.