BET Awards 2026: Jaafar Jackson thanks fans as Michael Makes box office history

Jaafar Jackson and Nia Long celebrated a major milestone for their biographical drama 'Michael' during the 2026 BET Awards,

Jaafar Jackson and Nia Long celebrated a major milestone for their biographical drama ‘Michael’ during the 2026 BET Awards, expressing heartfelt gratitude to fans after the film achieved a historic box office record.

The two stars appeared together on stage at the Peacock Theater on Sunday, June 28, where they presented the award for Best Male R&B/Pop Artist. Before announcing the winner, Jaafar Jackson took a moment to thank audiences worldwide for their overwhelming support of the film, which chronicles the life and career of the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson.

According to “Variety”, Michael has officially become the highest-grossing biopic of all time, earning an impressive $977 million at the global box office. The film surpassed the previous record held by Oppenheimer, which grossed approximately $975 million worldwide. It also overtook Bohemian Rhapsody, making it the highest-grossing musical biopic in cinema history.

Addressing the audience, Jaafar expressed his appreciation for the film’s success and acknowledged the unwavering support from moviegoers.

“We’re so grateful for the love you all showed to our movie. You guys have the theaters packed. We’re truly so humbled. Your support means the world to the Jackson family,” he said.

Nia Long, who portrayed Michael Jackson’s mother, Katherine Jackson, also reflected on her experience working on the project. She described playing Katherine as a deeply meaningful role and praised Jaafar for his remarkable transformation into his legendary uncle.

“Portraying Katherine Jackson reminded me that grace is quiet and still, and tonight we honor that. Jaafar, it was an honor watching you transform into your uncle right before our eyes,” Long told the audience.

Following their heartfelt remarks, the pair presented the Best Male R&B/Pop Artist award, which was won by singer-songwriter Leon Thomas.

The film’s historic achievement has also sparked excitement among fans, many of whom shared their reactions on social media. Responding to a clip from the BET Awards posted on Instagram, one fan wrote, “Now I’m just waiting for them to get the Oscar.” Another commented, “Can’t wait to see these two again in the Michael biopic sequel film!” A third praised both the movie and its lead actor, saying, “So glad that this movie and Jaafar are getting the recognition they deserve. This film did a phenomenal job telling Michael’s story.”

Released on April 24, 2026, Michael explores the legendary singer’s journey from his early years with the Jackson 5 in the 1960s through the record-breaking Bad World Tour in the late 1980s. The film features an ensemble cast including Jaafar Jackson, Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, KeiLyn Durrel Jones, Laura Harrier, Joseph David-Jones, and Jessica Sula.

Following the record-breaking milestone, Jaafar Jackson celebrated the achievement on Instagram by sharing behind-the-scenes photos from the production. In an emotional caption, he thanked fans for making his dream a reality.

“Highest grossing biopic of all time. Wow!! Thank you all so much. This record, this accomplishment—it was a dream goal of mine for this film and you all made it real. And I promise you Michael is up there absolutely grinning about this. This one’s for him,” he wrote.

With its record-setting box office performance and positive audience response, Michael has firmly established itself as one of the most successful and celebrated music biopics ever made.