Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
The Jackson family’s return to their Gary, Indiana roots sparks excitement and hope for the community’s future.Gary Today
A special screening of the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic ‘Michael’ was held in Gary, Indiana on Monday night, bringing out the film’s star Jaafar Jackson, who is portraying his uncle, as well as members of the Jackson 5. The event was a homecoming for the Jackson family, who got their start in the city, and local leaders hope it will build momentum for future community projects.
Why it matters
The screening of ‘Michael’ in Gary, where the Jackson family grew up, is a significant moment that celebrates the city’s most famous musical legacy. It also provides an opportunity for the community to come together and recognize the potential for future development and honoring the Jackson family’s impact.
The details
The free screening of the biopic ‘Michael’ took place outside West Side High School in Gary, with a long line of residents and fans eager to attend. Jaafar Jackson, who is making his acting debut as the lead in the film, walked the red carpet along with members of the Jackson 5, including Marlon and Jackie Jackson. For the Jackson brothers, it was a return to their hometown where they first started their musical careers as children.
The special screening was held on Monday, April 14, 2026.The movie ‘Michael’ is one of the most highly anticipated films of the year.
The players
Jaafar Jackson
The star of the new Michael Jackson biopic ‘Michael’, making his acting debut in the lead role.
Marlon Jackson
A member of the Jackson 5 and Michael Jackson’s brother, who attended the special screening in Gary.
Jackie Jackson
A member of the Jackson 5 and Michael Jackson’s brother, who attended the special screening in Gary.
Eddie Melton
The mayor of Gary, Indiana, who hopes the screening will build momentum for future community projects.
West Side High School
The location where the special screening of ‘Michael’ took place in Gary, Indiana.
Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›
What they’re saying
“I really hope they feel the love and the artistry that he had.”
— Jaafar Jackson
“It’s a pleasure to be back here. This is where it all started, you know, as little kids trying to follow their dream in life.”
— Marlon Jackson, Member of the Jackson 5
“If you want to do something that’s positive driven and you remain steadfast in that, never quite.”
— Jackie Jackson, Member of the Jackson 5
“We’ve been building that relationship with the Jackson family. We have a few things in the cooker. I’m not going to say what we’re working on, but I would say it’s something I believe the entire community is going to be proud of, especially around the timing of our convention center we’re getting ready to build.”
— Eddie Melton, Mayor of Gary, Indiana
What’s next
Mayor Melton indicated that the city of Gary is working on additional projects with the Jackson family, which the community will be proud of, likely timed around the opening of a new convention center.
The takeaway
The special screening of the Michael Jackson biopic in his hometown of Gary, Indiana, is a meaningful homecoming that celebrates the Jackson family’s musical legacy and provides an opportunity for the community to come together and look towards future development that can build on this momentum.