Nine-year-old Juliano Krue Valdi has landed the highly sought-after role of young Michael Jackson in the upcoming biopic “Michael,” directed by Antoine Fuqua for Lionsgate and UIP.
Valdi will bring to life the early years of Michael Jackson, showcasing the rise to fame of the Jackson 5 and their timeless hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “I’ll Be There.”
Graham King, producer of the film, highlighted the striking similarities between young Michael and Juliano, stating that both share an old soul and a deep passion for music.
King praised Juliano’s talent, saying, “He has managed to translate that inspiration into a presence and performance that captures the true magic of young Michael Jackson.”
Director Antoine Fuqua emphasized the challenges of casting the role of young Michael, citing the difficulty in finding a child actor who could embody the nature of the greatest entertainer.
Fuqua expressed that Juliano’s undeniable talent put him at the top of their list, showcasing his ability to capture Michael’s spirit through his voice, charisma, and dance skills.
Juliano Valdi, thrilled to play the role, expressed his admiration for Michael Jackson, citing him as the King of Pop and a special person in his heart.
Valdi has been dancing to Michael’s songs for five years and has conveyed his love for the energy and positivity that Michael Jackson’s music brings.
The film, set to release on April 18, 2025, features Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew, in the role of his famous uncle. The screenplay, written by John Logan, aims to portray the challenges of Michael Jackson’s life, exploring his rise to fame, triumphs, tragedies, and his humanity and creative genius.