# Michael Breaks Records with $217M Global Debut, Biggest-Ever Opening for a Biopic

> Antoine Fuqua’s Michael Jackson biopic *Michael* achieved a record-breaking global box office debut, earning $97 million in North America and $120.4 million internationally for a worldwide total of $217.4 million. The f…

Published: 2026-04-27 · Desk: Latest · Source: Hollywood Reporter

Antoine Fuqua’s Michael Jackson biopic Michael delivered a record-breaking performance at the global box office, earning $97 million domestically and $120.4 million internationally for a worldwide total of $217.4 million, according to Sunday estimates.

The film exceeded expectations by nearly $30 million, marking the biggest domestic opening ever for a biopic, surpassing Oppenheimer ($80 million, unadjusted for inflation). It also set a new global benchmark for music biopics, overtaking Bohemian Rhapsody. Lionsgate released the film domestically, while Universal handled international distribution.

Heading into the weekend, projections were around $70 million, but strong audience turnout pushed the film close to $100 million in North America. Positive word-of-mouth and a family-friendly focus helped drive its success, despite mixed critical reviews.

Internationally, Michael also performed strongly, earning $120.4 million across 84 markets, setting new records in several regions. The film resonated across demographics, with strong turnout from multiple age groups and ethnicities.

Despite production challenges and a reported $200 million budget, the film’s strong global debut positions it as a major box office success, with exceptional audience scores far outweighing its critical reception.

Original reporting: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/music/music-news/michael-jackson-record-box-office-biopic-opening-1236577460/?fbclid=IwY2xjawRb5-ZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFSSURqcHp0UTJNRkJtUFpTc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHhtdGX5Kl3XxiPdDe5Nwhsg-guS1iHQYBUj7QVPH6NMEQfwKPnSOXlaSv1PV_aem_Eo-5u0poizxyIfi_YY4EKA
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