‘Michael’ costume designer says Jaafar Jackson 'came through' as Michael Jackson in biopic

The transformation of Jaafar Jackson into his legendary uncle is being described as something beyond performance by those who worked on the biopic Michael.

Costume designer Marci Rodgers told People that watching Jaafar embody the late King of Pop was an emotional and almost surreal experience, saying at times it felt as though Michael himself was present on set. 

“Michael came through him,” she said, describing multiple moments during filming that left the crew in awe.

The film, which opened in theaters on April 24, chronicles the life and career of Michael Jackson from his early rise with the Jackson 5 through key moments of his solo superstardom.

Jaafar, the son of Michael’s brother Jermaine Jackson, not only mirrored his uncle’s iconic style and movement but also performed several of his most famous songs, including Thriller, Beat It, and Bad, further deepening the authenticity of his portrayal.

Family members of the late singer have also publicly expressed their emotional reactions to Jaafar’s performance. 

Michael’s son and film executive producer Prince Jackson described seeing Jaafar in character as deeply moving, saying it was difficult to separate the performance from memories of his father.

Michael’s brother Jackie Jackson also reacted emotionally, praising Jaafar’s ability to fully embody the late star on screen.

Jaafar himself has shared that receiving approval from his family was one of the most meaningful parts of the experience. 

He said their emotional responses to his screen test left him in tears, noting that their support, especially from his grandmother, Katherine Jackson, meant the most to him.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, Michael features a cast including Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson and explores both the rise and legacy of one of music’s most influential figures.

The biopic has been widely discussed for its close involvement with the Jackson family, many of whom have endorsed the project and praised Jaafar’s performance as remarkably authentic.