The California Film Commission has awarded Lionsgate a $ 30.8 million tax credit to support production of Michael 2, a highly anticipated sequel to the global box office hit Michael.
This incentive ensures the film will be shot in California, reinforcing the state’s commitment to keeping major productions local while highlighting one of the most iconic figures in music history.
The state selected 35 films in the latest round of its film and television tax-credit program, with the selected projects set to receive $226 million in incentives altogether.
Directed once again by Antoine Fuqua, Michael 2 will continue the story of Michael Jackson, with Jaafar Jackson reprising his role as the King of Pop.
The first film, released in 2026, traced Jackson’s journey from childhood through the Bad Tour era, ending with the teaser “His Story Continues.”
The $30.8 million award represents 35% of qualified production costs compared to the 17.5% of the original, which is a significant increase compared to $21 million tax credit granted for the first film before it earned more than $1 billion at the worldwide box office.
Lionsgate film chief Adam Fogelson confirmed that the team had already shot material for a second film during the production of Michael. He revealed that roughly 25% to 30% of potential sequel was already complete, including several major musical sequences.
Filming is expected to begin in the late 2026 or early 2027, with a release projected for the late 2027 or the first half of 2028.
