LaToya Jackson Reveals Why Janet Jackson is Missing From ‘Michael’ Film: “She Kindly Declined”

The spotlight is firmly on the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, once again, but one major piece of the puzzle is notably absent.

At the premiere of ‘Michael,’ LaToya Jackson revealed that her sister Janet Jackson was invited to be portrayed in the film but chose to opt out.

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La Toya Jackson says Jaafar Jackson’s performance in #MichaelMovie is so convincing, she and her family would think they were “watching Mike.” pic.twitter.com/40bCXQAS7U

— Variety (@Variety) April 21, 2026

Speaking to Variety, LaToya admitted she wished “everybody was in the movie,” but shared that Janet:

“was asked and she kindly declined, so you have to respect her wishes.”

Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the movie chronicles Michael Jackson’s rise to global superstardom, with nephew Jaafar Jackson stepping into his legendary shoes.

Still, despite Janet’s absence and criticism from family members like Paris Jackson, the film is eyeing a massive box office debut, proving interest in Michael’s story remains sky high.