# Taj Jackson Responds to Critics as Michael Biopic Debuts

The Michael Jackson biopic hits theaters worldwide this week amid a wave of mixed-to-negative early reviews, with Taj Jackson stepping in to push back against the critics. The project has long been dogged by debates over what it portrays and what it leaves out, fueling controversy from the moment the project was announced.

Colman Domingo, who portrays Joe Jackson in the film, has been explaining why the movie addresses certain allegations about the King of Pop in the way it does, arguing that the film’s approach is part of a broader storytelling choice rather than an exhaustive retelling of every public accusation.

Paris Jackson has publicly pushed back as well, saying the film is filled with “full-blown lies,” adding to the complexity of reception as the release approaches.

On the eve of the release, Taj Jackson joined the chorus of defenders, taking aim at the media’s portrayal of Michael. In a provocative post, he challenged critics to “eat crow,” arguing that audiences will ultimately decide the truth for themselves when they watch the film.

“Sorry media, you don’t get to control the narrative anymore of who Michael Jackson truly was,” Taj wrote. “The public gets to watch this movie…they will decide for themselves. And you can’t handle that.” He followed up with a sharp jab at film journalists: “Can’t wait till some critics have to eat crow. And yes I will be that petty.”

The movie’s box-office outlook was upbeat, with projections suggesting a domestic opening around $65–70 million and as much as $150 million globally, depending on reception and word of mouth. For those curious about the broader genre, a look at the best music biopics of all time provides a sense of how such projects often perform and resonate.