Michael Jackson fans erupted online this week in anger after Netflix released a new docuseries revisiting the pop icon's 2005 child molestation trial. The timing has sparked outrage, coming as the highly successful biopic "Michael" nears a historic $1 billion global box office milestone.
On June 3, Netflix premiered "Michael Jackson: The Verdict", which revisits the trial where Jackson was acquitted of all charges. Fans swiftly condemned the streaming service's move, accusing it of attempting to capitalize on the biopic's popularity to spread what they call a baseless "smear campaign" against the King of Pop, per Atlanta Black Star.
"That Michael Jackson documentary on Netflix is disgusting," a user wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "They're still trying to smear a man who was cleared multiple times, even after his death, just to make money off his name."
Many fans pointed to the suspicious timing, noting that "Michael" has grossed $870 million worldwide since its April 24 release and remains in the domestic box office Top 5. The film is expected to break the $1 billion mark once it opens in Japan on June 12, potentially becoming the first biopic ever to reach that milestone.
Read more: Michael Jackson Fans Outraged: Netflix Accused of 'Predatory Timing' as Biopic Hits $700M
Other users criticized the docuseries' portrayal of prosecutors involved in Jackson's trial and accused Netflix of manipulating footage to unfairly suggest guilt. One fan said, "Netflix doc really had to edit footage, remove context, and manipulate scenes just to make Michael Jackson look guilty. That's strange for someone whose guilt is supposedly so obvious."
The backlash even led some viewers to cancel their Netflix subscriptions in protest. "Canceled no more," one user declared. "They will not get another dime from me to promote hit pieces."
Michael Jackson Biopic ‘Michael’ Gets Digital Release Date After Massive Box Office Run Details: https://t.co/uzdioSKo32 pic.twitter.com/MUjNej1BeS
— Complex (@Complex) June 2, 2026
Despite the controversy, "Michael" shows no signs of slowing down at the box office and is set for digital release on June 9. Fans continue to rally around Jackson's legacy, streaming his music and packing theaters for the biopic.
Recently, WBLS reports said that Michael Jackson set a new Billboard record after his 2014 posthumous song "Chicago" debuted at No. 30 on the Hot 100, making him the first artist to chart new entries in every decade since the 1970s.
The song gained traction through streaming and social media, earning 10.7 million U.S. streams. Its resurgence comes amid renewed interest in Jackson's music following the success of the biopic "Michael", which has grossed nearly $850 million worldwide, while also sparking fresh discussions about his legacy.
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