Universal Pictures faces growing backlash over its unconventional plan to premiere the upcoming biopic Michael with a holographic appearance of the late pop icon. The event is slated to take place at London’s O2 Arena, the same venue where Jackson was scheduled to perform during his This Is It residency in 2009.
“It’s ghoulish and deeply disrespectful,”
stated members of the Jackson family, expressing outrage over Universal’s approach. Insiders close to the family said the concept feels exploitative, arguing that Jackson’s perfectionism would have made him resistant to being digitally resurrected for promotional purposes.
The long-delayed film is expected to debut next spring. Jackson, who passed away at 50 just 18 days before his first scheduled show, had been preparing for a marathon of 50 sold-out concerts. Reports suggest that the intense pressure of the shows contributed to his dependency on propofol, the hospital-grade anesthetic that ultimately caused his death.
Studio sources claim they aim to use holographic technology to recreate Jackson’s final performances, predicting a large turnout of fans eager to celebrate his legacy. Universal is reportedly in discussions with Cineworld at the O2, with executives arguing that the venue provides a sense of “emotional symmetry.”
The controversy underscores the tension between artistic tribute and commercial exploitation, leaving fans divided over whether the holographic performance honors or diminishes the star’s enduring influence.
Author’s summary: Universal’s holographic premiere plan for the Michael Jackson biopic sparks fierce debate over ethics, authenticity, and exploitation of his legacy.