The King of Pop is still breaking records, even from the big screen. Michael has officially moonwalked its way into the history books with a massive box office debut, proving that the world remains deeply invested in the enduring legacy of Michael Jackson.

According to reports, the highly anticipated biopic opened with a staggering $97 million domestically. This debut set a brand new record for music biopics, placing it ahead of previous heavy hitters like Straight Outta Compton and Bohemian Rhapsody. The global performance was even more impressive, with the film pulling in $120.4 million overseas, bringing its worldwide debut to an eye-popping $217.4 million.

What makes this achievement even more notable is that early projections had the film landing significantly lower, between $50 million and $70 million. Instead, audiences showed up in full force, demonstrating that the cultural pull of Michael Jackson remains unmatched. Despite mixed reviews from critics, fans are driving the narrative with strong audience reactions and an “A-” CinemaScore, suggesting that the theatrical experience is resonating with viewers.

The film, which stars Jaafar Jackson as his iconic uncle, chronicles the early years of Michael Jackson’s rise to superstardom. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the project faced a challenging production path, including significant edits and reshoots, yet none of these hurdles slowed its momentum at the box office.

This success arrives at a time when theaters are experiencing a resurgence. With titles like The Super Mario Galaxy Movie and Project Hail Mary also performing well, the industry is clearly heating up, and Michael has set a new benchmark for success. With a production budget nearing $200 million, the opening weekend indicates that the investment is already paying off, with industry insiders already speculating about the potential for a full-blown cinematic series.

Numbers do not lie. Whether one chooses to celebrate or debate his life, Michael Jackson remains one of the most impactful entertainers of all time. Now, his story is proving to a new generation that his influence is just as powerful on the big screen as it was on the stage.