Why Kat Graham’s Role as Diana Ross Wasn’t in the Michael Jackson Biopic
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As critical reviews vary and fans eagerly wait, Michael is poised to make a significant impact at the global box office this weekend. However, one notable figure from the King of Pop’s youth is missing from the film’s lineup.
On Thursday, April 23, actress Kat Graham, who had been cast as Diana Ross in March 2024, shared on her Instagram Story the reasons for her absence from the Antoine Fuqua-directed musical biopic.
“I want to share that certain legal considerations affected a few scenes, including ones I filmed with an incredible cast,” Graham wrote. “Unfortunately, those moments are no longer part of the final cut, though the team worked hard to preserve as much of the story as possible.”
Diana Ross played a pivotal role in The Jackson 5’s rise, becoming a key part of Motown’s marketing strategy. Additionally, she co-starred with Michael Jackson in the 1978 film The Wiz, underscoring their close friendship beyond the music industry.
Alongside Graham, the March 2024 casting announcement featured Larenz Tate as Motown founder Berry Gordy, Kendrick Sampson as Quincy Jones, Jessica Sula as LaToya Jackson, Kevin Shinick as Dick Clark, and Liv Symone as Gladys Knight. All these actors, except Graham, remain part of the cast in the film, which premieres in theaters on Friday.
The production of Michael has faced multiple legal challenges, including a script version that was required to eliminate references to Jackson’s child sexual abuse allegations after the estate discovered a settlement clause prohibiting any mention of Jordan Chandler, one of Jackson’s accusers.
Written by John Logan, Michael chronicles Jackson’s remarkable journey from his early days with The Jackson 5 in the 1960s to his monumental Bad Tour in the late 1980s. Jaafar Jackson, Jermaine Jackson’s son and Michael’s nephew, plays the lead role, supported by a cast that includes two-time Oscar nominee Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Emmy nominee Miles Teller as entertainment lawyer John Branca, three-time NAACP Image Award winner Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Actor Award nominee Laura Harrier as Suzanne de Passe, and Emmy winner Mike Myers as music executive Walter Yetnikoff.
For a more detailed explanation from Kat Graham regarding Diana Ross’ absence in the Michael biopic, visit her Instagram Story.
