Why was Michael Jackson biopic ‘Michael’ rejected from Golden Globes musical/comedy category?

The Michael Jackson biopic ‘Michael’ may have plenty of the late pop icon’s biggest hits, but its music has not secured the film a place in the Musical or Comedy category at the 2027 Golden Globe Awards. The awards committee has rejected Lionsgate’s preferred classification, leaving the film set to compete in the drama categories unless the studio successfully challenges the decision.

The ruling, first reported by Gold Derby and subsequently reported by Variety, could affect the film’s awards-season prospects, particularly those of lead actor Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew, who makes his feature film debut as the singer. Lionsgate can appeal the decision before the October 31 submission deadline.

Why did the Golden Globes reject ‘Michael’?

The committee’s decision centres on the distinction between a film that features music and one that qualifies as a musical under the Golden Globes’ rules. Although ‘Michael’ includes performances of songs associated with the King of Pop, the committee reportedly concluded that the musical sequences did not sufficiently advance the film’s narrative to qualify it for the Musical or Comedy category.

The Golden Globes’ eligibility guidelines define a musical as follows: “A musical can be a comedy or a drama in which songs are used in addition to spoken dialogue to further the plot.”

Under this criterion, a film’s soundtrack alone does not necessarily make it eligible for the musical category. The way songs contribute to the storytelling is also a consideration.

The rejection is notable because studios generally submit their films to the categories they believe best suit them. However, the committee can review and reject a proposed classification if it does not meet the eligibility requirements.

Will Lionsgate appeal the decision?

Lionsgate still has the option to challenge the ruling before the October 31 deadline. If the studio proceeds with an appeal, the Golden Globes’ awards committee will reconsider the film’s eligibility for the Musical or Comedy category.

If the decision stands, ‘Michael’ will compete in the drama categories, where it could face titles including Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ and Los Javis’ ‘La Bola Negra’.

The change would not affect the supporting acting categories. Colman Domingo and Nia Long, who portray Michael Jackson’s parents, Joe and Katherine Jackson, respectively, remain eligible to compete in the relevant categories, which do not divide nominees by genre.

The film’s lead actor, Jaafar Jackson, would also have to pursue recognition in the drama field rather than the Musical or Comedy category if the ruling is upheld.

How have musical biopics fared at the Golden Globes?

The classification debate reflects the distinction the awards have drawn between music-driven storytelling and biographical dramas that feature musical performances.

Films such as ‘Ray’ and ‘Walk the Line’ have previously received Golden Globes recognition in the musical category. However, later changes to the rules have seen music biopics including ‘A Complete Unknown’, ‘Elvis’ and ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ compete in the drama category.

The decision on ‘Michael’ therefore places it alongside a number of music-focused biographical films that have pursued awards recognition as dramas rather than musicals.

What is ‘Michael’ about?

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, ‘Michael’ traces Jackson’s journey from his early years performing with his brothers in the Jackson 5 during the 1960s to his career during the late 1980s, including the era of his ‘Bad’ tour.

Jaafar Jackson takes on the lead role, while Juliano Valdi portrays the singer as a child. Both actors made their film debuts with the project. Domingo and Long play Joe and Katherine Jackson.

Released in April 2026, the film brought the pop star’s life and music to the big screen, with Jaafar portraying his famous uncle.

A sequel is already in development. In May, actor Miles Teller, who played Michael Jackson’s lawyer-manager John Branca in the first film, confirmed that a follow-up was being planned.

When will the 2027 Golden Globes take place?

The 84th Golden Globe Awards are scheduled for January 10, 2027, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California. The nominations are due to be announced on December 7, 2026.

Comedian and actor Nikki Glaser is set to return as host for the third consecutive year.