Paris Jackson Files Objection Against MJ Estate Over ‘Michael’ Film Budget

A legal dispute has emerged between Paris Jackson and the Michael Jackson Estate over the production of the upcoming biopic Michael, which stars Jaafar Jackson.

According to recent court filings, Paris Jackson has formally objected to how the estate is handling the film’s finances and production. The biopic, currently scheduled for a global IMAX release on April 24, 2026, has reportedly faced rising costs and production complications.

In her filing, Paris raised concerns about what she described as a “botched production.” She claimed that “tens of millions” of dollars were spent on reshoots, allegedly caused by a legal oversight involving a 1993 settlement with Jordan Chandler that reportedly restricts his portrayal in the film.

She also questioned the estate’s decision to invest heavily in the project’s reported $150 million budget, calling it a high-risk use of estate funds. Additionally, she criticized what she described as “peculiar” casting choices, including the hiring of Miles Teller to play estate executor John Branca, suggesting the cost may not translate into box office success.

The estate, led by co-executors John Branca and John McClain, has strongly pushed back against these claims. In court, their legal team, including attorney Jonathan Steinsapir, dismissed Paris’s objections as “without merit” and part of a broader media campaign.

The estate argued that Paris and her advisers lack understanding of how large-scale film productions operate, particularly when it comes to reshoots and casting decisions. They also pointed to their track record in managing Michael Jackson’s legacy, highlighting the financial success of projects like MJ the Musical and Cirque du Soleil’s Immortal tour.

In response to concerns about financial risk, the estate noted that it inherited approximately $500 million in debt at the time of Michael Jackson’s death in 2009 but has since generated billions in revenue. They also stated that Paris has already received around $65 million in benefits from the estate.

The estate further argued that producing a major biopic is a standard and necessary move, citing the success of films like Bohemian Rhapsody as an example of how such projects can strengthen an artist’s legacy and generate significant returns.

Despite the dispute, production on Michael is continuing. The film is currently in post-production, with reports indicating that an early cut exceeded three and a half hours. A shorter theatrical version is expected before release.

The disagreement also highlights a divide within the Jackson family. While Paris has reportedly called the script “dishonest” and “fantasy,” her brother, Prince Jackson, is said to support the project.

The case remains ongoing as the film moves closer to its planned release date.