The “cinematic event of the decade” is getting a massive second wind. Lionsgate has officially confirmed that the high-grossing biopic Michael will return to IMAX screens nationwide starting next weekend, May 22, 2026. The move comes after the film’s initial April release shattered records, earning over $577 million globally and becoming the fourth highest-grossing film of the year in just three weeks.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson as his legendary uncle, the film has been praised for its visceral musical sequences and large-scale production. The decision to bring the Michael Jackson biopic IMAX release back for a limited engagement is a direct response to sold-out screenings during its debut week.
Industry analysts suggest that the IMAX “encore” is designed to capture audiences who missed the premium format experience in April. The film, which traces the King of Pop’s journey from the Jackson 5 through the legendary Bad tour, was specifically filmed to take advantage of the expanded aspect ratio, offering 26% more picture than standard theaters.
The return to premium large formats (PLF) follows a Mother’s Day weekend that saw the film continue to dominate social media trends and soundtrack charts. Fans have been particularly vocal about seeing the meticulously recreated “Thriller” and “Man in the Mirror” performances on the six-story-tall screens once more.
With 39,000 tickets already booked in the last 24 hours alone, the film is on track to cross the $600 million mark by the end of May. For fans of the King of Pop, this return represents a final chance to experience the “spectacle of the century” in its most immersive form before it begins its transition to home streaming services later this summer.
