Michael Jackson Biopic: Kat Graham Confirms Role as Diana Ross Was Cut From Film | THR News
Why It Matters
The cuts illustrate how legal settlements can dictate storytelling in high‑profile biopics, shaping audience perception of Michael Jackson’s legacy and the film’s commercial prospects.
Key Takeaways
- •Kat Graham's Diana Ross scenes cut due to legal considerations.
- •Lionsgate removed third act about Jackson's abuse allegations.
- •Jafar Jackson, nephew, cast as Michael in upcoming biopic.
- •Film releases April 24, directed by Antoine Fuqua.
- •Sequel will cover Jackson's later years through 2009.
Summary
The upcoming Lionsgate biopic "Michael" will launch April 24, starring Jafar Jackson as his uncle. Actress Kat Graham, known from "The Vampire Diaries," revealed that her scenes as Diana Ross were removed.
Graham said "certain legal considerations" forced the cuts, echoing earlier reports that a third act addressing the child sexual abuse allegations was stripped after a settlement barred dramatization of an accuser. The film now focuses on Jackson's rise and early career.
In her X post, Graham expressed disappointment but praised the cast, which includes Coleman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, and Lorren Tate. The Michael‑Jackson‑Diana Ross friendship, once highlighted by the 1992 "Remember the Time," will now be referenced only indirectly.
The legal‑driven edits reshape the narrative, potentially limiting controversy but also sparking debate over historical accuracy. Lionsgate plans a follow‑up film covering Jackson's later years through his 2009 death, suggesting a two‑part approach to his complex legacy.
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