The Michael Jackson biopic "Michael" has become the highest-grossing biographical film of all time, earning $977 million worldwide and surpassing "Oppenheimer," which previously held the record with $975 million.
Axar.az reports, citing Variety, that the film has grossed $607.2 million internationally and $370.2 million in North America since its April release.
It also set a new opening weekend record for a musical biopic, debuting with $97 million domestically and $217 million globally, before maintaining strong box office momentum through the summer.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, "Michael" follows Jackson's rise from his early years with the Jackson 5 to becoming the King of Pop. Jaafar Jackson, the late singer's nephew, stars as Michael Jackson in his feature film debut, alongside Colman Domingo and Nia Long as Joe and Katherine Jackson.
The film had already overtaken 2018's "Bohemian Rhapsody" ($911 million worldwide) to become the highest-grossing musical biopic.
Critics have argued that the film presents a sanitized portrayal of Jackson's life by omitting the child sexual abuse allegations made against the singer later in his career. However, Lionsgate's marketing focused on the film's recreation of Jackson's performances and music videos, helping drive strong audience turnout.
"Michael" is now Lionsgate's highest-grossing film ever, surpassing "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire," which earned $865 million worldwide.
According to Variety, the studio is expected to move forward with at least one additional film about Jackson's life.