Legal Issues Nix Diana Ross Role in 'Michael'

Diana Ross has been removed from the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, titled 'Michael,' owing to "certain legal considerations." Actress Kat Graham, who was cast as the legendary Supremes singer, announced that her scenes featuring Ross are no longer part of the film's final edit. This development follows major reshoots that occurred after the movie's third act was found to be unusable.

The initial screenplay reportedly addressed a 1993 child sexual abuse lawsuit against Jackson, which he denied. However, producers later discovered a settlement clause that prohibited any depiction or mention of the accuser in media. It is believed this legal constraint led to significant creative changes, including Graham's removed scenes. The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, stars Jaafar Jackson as his uncle, Michael Jackson, with Colman Domingo and Nia Long as his parents. It is anticipated to have a significant box office opening, with projections of at least $70 million domestically and $150 million globally.