NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 24: Nia Long attends the 22nd Annual Reel Works ChangeMaker Gala at The Ziegfeld Ballroom on May 24, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images)
(Photo : Getty Images) NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 24: Nia Long attends the 22nd Annual Reel Works ChangeMaker Gala at The Ziegfeld Ballroom on May 24, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images)

Nia Long has been confirmed to portray Katherine Jackson, Michael Jackson's mother, in director Antoine Fuqua's forthcoming biographical drama about the iconic King of Pop.

The casting news comes alongside earlier announcements that Jaafar Jackson, Michael's nephew, will take on the role of the legendary musician, and Colman Domingo, who will play the family's patriarch, Joe Jackson.

Director Antoine Fuqua expressed enthusiasm about Long's casting.

"Nia has delivered iconic performances throughout her career. I've been a fan for a long time because her characters stay with you," he said. "I'm excited to now work alongside her as she pours all of that into Katherine Jackson: a woman who was the glue, the rock, and the heart of the Jackson family during its best and its most turbulent times."

SANTA MARIA, CA - JUNE 3: Michael Jackson and his mother Katherine Jackson exit the courtroom after his child molestation trial is turned over to the jury for delibration at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse June 3, 2005 in Santa Maria, California. Jackson is charged in a 10-count indictment with molesting a boy, plying him with liquor and conspiring to commit child abduction, false imprisonment and extortion. (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)
(Photo : Getty Images) SANTA MARIA, CA - JUNE 3: Michael Jackson and his mother Katherine Jackson exit the courtroom after his child molestation trial is turned over to the jury for delibration at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse June 3, 2005 in Santa Maria, California. Jackson is charged in a 10-count indictment with molesting a boy, plying him with liquor and conspiring to commit child abduction, false imprisonment and extortion. (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)

The upcoming biopic, 'Michael,' will delve into the intricate legacy of the legendary singer. The logline suggests that the film will depict a "brilliant yet complicated man" who achieved renowned, global success as one of the greatest performers in history. The script for the movie is written by John Logan, known for his work on screenplays such as 'Gladiator,' 'Sweeney Todd,' and James Bond films including 'Skyfall' and 'Spectre.'

"Katherine Jackson is an incredible pillar of strength and grace for the entire Jackson family," said Long, 53, acknowleding the iconic matriarch's strength and grace. "As a mother, she was selfless and endured forces beyond her control yet still managed to help build a legacy beyond measure."

The biopic is currently in production and is scheduled to release on April 18, 2025. 

THE BEST MAN: THE FINAL CHAPTERS -- The Party Episode 105 -- Pictured: Nia Long as Jordan -- (Photo by: Jocelyn Prescod/Peacock via Getty Images)
(Photo : Getty Images) THE BEST MAN: THE FINAL CHAPTERS -- The Party Episode 105 -- Pictured: Nia Long as Jordan -- (Photo by: Jocelyn Prescod/Peacock via Getty Images)

Nia Long, acclaimed for her roles in films like 'Boyz n the Hood,' 'Love Jones,' and 'The Best Man,' was recently featured in Netflix's comedy 'You People.' Beyond the big screen, the mother of two left a mark with memorable roles on the 1990s sitcom, 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' and the crime drama 'Third Watch.'

Tags: Nia Long Michael Jackson Biographical Drama Antoine Fuqua Jaafar Jackson Colman Domingo Katherine Jackson Joe Jackson Iconic Performances Michael Biopic John Logan Brilliant Yet Complicated Graham King Lionsgate Universal Pictures International April 18 2025 Bohemian Rhapsody John Branca John McClain Legacy Beyond Measure netflix You People The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air Third Watch