Nia Long will play Michael Jackson's mother Katherine in the biopic about the late King of Pop
Nia Long will star as Michael Jackson's mother in the upcoming biopic about the King of Pop.
The actress, 53, who receives $32,500 a month in child support from her ex-partner Ime Udoka, 46, will take on the role of Katherine Jackson, 94, in the upcoming film, directed by Antoine Fuqua.
“Katherine Jackson is an incredible pillar of strength and grace for the entire Jackson family,” Nia said in a statement.
“As a mother, she was selfless and endured forces beyond her control, yet still managed to build an immeasurable legacy.”
Nia Long, 53, will star as Michael Jackson's mother Katherine Jackson, 94, in the upcoming biopic about the King of Pop. “Katherine Jackson is an incredible pillar of strength and grace for the entire Jackson family,” the actress said in a statement
The director sang Nia's praises in his own statement.
“Nia has delivered iconic performances throughout her career,” he said. “I've been a fan for a long time because her characters stick with you.”
The four-time NAACP Award winner's career includes roles in The Best Man franchise, her role as Sasha Monroe in Third Watch and the Netflix series Dear White People.
“I'm excited to work with her now as she pours all of that into Katherine Jackson: a woman who was the glue, the rock and the heart of the Jackson family during its best and most turbulent times,” the director said. .
Colman Domingo, 54, who plays Mister in The Color Purple, will take on the role of patriarch Joe Jackson, who died in 2018.
Michael's cousin, Jaafar Jackson, 28, will play his late uncle.
The Billie Jean singer died in 2009 at the age of 50 from an accidental overdose of prescription drugs.
The young actor and singer posted a black and white photo of himself dressed as the late superstar on January 19 with the caption, “The journey starts Monday,” referring to the January 22 start date.
Nia praised Katherine “As a mother, she was selfless and endured forces beyond her control, yet still managed to build an immeasurable legacy” (pictured in Santa Maria, California, May 2005)
Michael Jackson died in 2009 at the age of 50 from an accidental prescription drug overdose. His cousin, Jafaar Jackson, 28, will play the late superstar in the film, which is currently in production.
The film is expected to be ready for release in April 2025.
The Boys in the Hood star will tell her own life story in her upcoming memoir.
In a statement on social media announcing the deal, the author described what readers could expect. “My steps to find the divine purpose have been thoughtful and intentional.”
“For better or for worse, you'll find truth and transparency in the stories, laced with '90s nostalgia.”