The Golden Globes has denied a request by Lionsgate to have its Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, compete in the Comedy or Musical categories for its upcoming awards.
The decision means the blockbuster film, which stars Jaafar Jackson as his late uncle, will instead compete in the Drama categories alongside major titles like Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey.
Lionsgate had submitted a formal request accompanied by a letter from director Antoine Fuqua advocating for the musical classification. However, the Golden Globes awards committee rejected the bid, ruling that the musical performances in the film serve as re-creations of Jackson’s life events rather than narrative tools that drive the plot forward.
Under Golden Globes rules, a film must use songs directly to advance the storyline to qualify as a musical, a standard previously applied to biopics like Bohemian Rhapsody and Elvis.
While Lionsgate has until October 31 to appeal the decision, sources indicate the studio is unlikely to challenge the ruling. The decision does not affect supporting cast members Colman Domingo and Nia Long, as acting categories for supporting roles are not separated by genre.
Directed by Fuqua, Michael made history as the first biopic to cross $1 billion at the global box office following its release in April 2026.
Nominations for the 84th Golden Globe Awards will be announced on Monday, December 7, 2026, ahead of the ceremony on January 10, 2027.
