Entertainment

Michael Jackson Biopic 'MICHAEL' Earns Three Hollywood Music in Media Awards Nominations

Jaafar Jackson was nominated for his onscreen performance of “Bad,” director Antoine Fuqua for Music-Themed Film, and John Warhurst for music supervision.

ONOrbit News NetworkNov 3, 2026 · 1 min read
A cinema marquee
Photo: MJVibe

The Michael Jackson biopic “MICHAEL” received three nominations at the 2026 Hollywood Music in Media Awards, announced on November 2 ahead of the November 18 ceremony at Avalon Hollywood.

Jaafar Jackson was nominated in Song — Onscreen Performance (Film) for his performance of “Bad,” director Antoine Fuqua was nominated in Music-Themed Film, Biopic or Musical, and John Warhurst was nominated in Music Supervision — Film.

Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson's nephew, carries the film's central performance, and his “Bad” number has been singled out in early awards-season coverage. Fuqua, known for “Training Day” and “The Equalizer,” directs a film that has been years in the making and closely watched by Jackson's estate and fans.

The Hollywood Music in Media Awards honor music in film, television, video games and advertising, and their nominations often preview the music categories of larger awards shows. Three nominations for a single biopic is a strong early showing.

The ceremony takes place November 18 at Avalon Hollywood, where winners across dozens of categories will be announced. For “MICHAEL,” the nominations add momentum as the film heads toward its release and the wider awards season.

Reporting: MJVibe

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