Michael Jackson Biopic “Michael” Announces One-Night-Only Early Access Screenings on April 22

Michael Jackson Biopic “Michael” Announces One-Night-Only Early Access Screenings on April 22

Lionsgate announces one-night-only early access screenings for the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic Michael, giving fans a chance to see the film in theaters on April 22 before its wide release.

Lionsgate has announced special premium early access screenings for Michael, the highly anticipated biographical film about music icon Michael Jackson. Fans will have the opportunity to see the film one night early on Wednesday, April 22, during exclusive theatrical screenings ahead of the film’s wider release.

The upcoming biopic explores the life, artistry, and legacy of Michael Jackson, offering audiences a look at the global superstar’s rise to fame and cultural impact. The early access event gives devoted fans a chance to experience the film on the big screen before its official release.

The Early Access screenings will be presented exclusively in premium formats, including IMAX and Dolby, with superior picture and sound quality. The one-night only early screenings will take place on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 — two days before the film’s nationwide opening on April 24. A limited number of showtimes are available.

Tickets for these special screenings will go on sale beginning at 9am PT / Noon ET tomorrow at all advance ticket sites.

Tickets for the film’s general release will go on sale at a later date.

Kevin Grayson, president, Worldwide Distribution for the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, said: “For Michael Jackson’s fans, Michael is the cinematic event they’ve been waiting for—the movie captures both the soul and the spectacle of the boy who became the King of Pop. These early access screenings, in IMAX and premium large formats, will immerse audiences in the electrifying performances and bring the power of Michael Jackson’s iconic music to life. It’s the perfect way to be the first to see the movie.”

WHO

In honor of the anniversary of “Billie Jean’s” debut on MTV, Lionsgate partnered with Paramount Advertising’s branded content studio Paramount Media Labs to mark the moment with a special Early Access ticket announcement, complete with the iconic MTV News desk and an appearance by MTV VJ legend Bill Bellamy. Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” short film was the first music video by a Black artist played in heavy rotation on MTV, a pivotal moment that spurred a transformative shift in music, culture and representation.

Michael is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of The Jackson 5, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world. Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.

Limited Early Access screenings on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | The film opens Nationwide on April 24
WHEN
Beginning on: April 22, 2026
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