Dailyhunt
Diana Ross cut from Michael biopic due to legal issues

Diana Ross cut from Michael biopic due to legal issues

Shillong Times 1 week ago

The biopic Michael, based on pop icon Michael Jackson, has undergone significant changes, including the removal of actress Kat Graham's portrayal of Diana Ross due to "legal considerations," according to Graham and The Hollywood Reporter.

Graham confirmed on social media that certain filmed scenes were cut from the final version of the movie, stating that legal issues affected portions of the story, including sequences she worked on.
She added that while the production team tried to preserve as much of the narrative as possible, some scenes could not remain in the final cut.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by Lionsgate, the film stars Jaafar Jackson, who plays Michael Jackson in his acting debut.
The cast also includes Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, and Larenz Tate.
Reports indicate the biopic has faced revisions to its storyline, including changes to sections addressing allegations of child sexual abuse linked to Jackson.
Some sequences were reportedly altered due to legal sensitivities involving prior settlements. A second film focusing on the later part of Jackson's life is also said to be in development.
Diana Ross had a long-standing personal and professional relationship with Michael Jackson, dating back to his early career with the Jackson 5.
His brother Jermaine Jackson has previously said Jackson wrote "Remember the Time" with Ross in mind.
Jaafar Jackson, making his acting debut, portrays Jackson performing some of his most iconic songs, including Thriller, Beat It, and Billie Jean. He reportedly kept his casting secret from his family for a year before filming.
Kat Graham, known for The Vampire Diaries, had been set to play Diana Ross before her scenes were ultimately removed from the final cut.
Anupam Kher hails Michael Jackson as 'eighth wonder'
Bollywood actor Anupam Kher has paid tribute to late pop icon Michael Jackson, recalling their meeting during Jackson's 1996 Mumbai concert.
Sharing a throwback photo on Instagram, Kher described the moment as "a feeling frozen in time," saying he was overwhelmed as a fan when he shook Jackson's hand.
Kher praised Jackson as "the eighth wonder of the world" and called him a once-in-a-millennium phenomenon whose artistry, innocence, and genius touched millions.
He wrote that Jackson was not just a performer but an "experience," and said the world may never witness another artist like him.
Reflecting on Jackson's legacy, Kher said greatness like his transcends negativity and continues to inspire.
He also expressed sadness that Jackson still faces criticism despite his contributions, emphasizing that his impact remains unmatched. (Agencies)

Dailyhunt
Disclaimer: This content has not been generated, created or edited by Dailyhunt. Publisher: Shillong Times English