Michael Jackson is once again back in the cultural conversation. New movie Michael, starring Jaafar Jackson — Michael’s own nephew — in the leading role, lands in theaters this week, following the singer’s life and career from The Jackson 5 to the peak of his solo career.
Thankfully, there’s a mountain of Michael Jackson documentaries out there to help delve deeper into the enigma behind the aviator sunglasses and curly locks. Not all of them are available on streaming… but luckily, the best ones are.
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Before hitting the cinema to see Michael this week, I’ve picked 5 unmissable documentaries to need to see before you go.
Michael Jackson’s This Is It (2009)
This Is It is undoubtedly the big kahuna of Michael Jackson documentaries, mostly because it’s some of the last-ever footage we have of the star.
Let’s set the scene. It’s summer 2009, and Jackson was set to stage a spectacular comeback at London’s O2 arena. But just weeks before it was set to happen, he died.
The documentary, directed by the man who was set to choreograph the highly anticipated gig, “offers a look at preparations for the shows and provides a revealing portrait of the man behind the controversy.”
Michael Jackson: The Trial (2026)
In a more sinister tone, Michael Jackson: The Trial explores the singer’s 2005 child molestation trial. Divided into four episodes, it examines the allegations made by Gavin Arvizo, the intense media circus, and the eventual acquittal on all charges.
Featuring previously unheard audio and exclusive interviews, it’s one of our two most recent documentaries in the list, having only been released in February 2026.
Michael Jackson: An American Tragedy (2026)
Where The Trial covers 2005, and This Is It covers 2009, Michael Jackson: An American Tragedy covers the time in between.
After being cleared of further abuse allegations, Jackson attempts an ambitious comeback tour. When he dies suddenly, the people who control his estate start monetising his legacy.
This one is a three-part docuseries trying to strike a balance between controversy and entertainment. If you’re looking for an all-rounder documentary stream, this is it (sorry).
Leaving Neverland (2019)
Arguably the most famous of the lot, Leaving Neverland sent shockwaves around the world when it was released back in 2019. The docuseries follows Jackson’s long-running relationships with two boys, aged 7 and 10, and their families.
In their 30s at the time of filming, they tell the story of how they were allegedly sexually abused by the singer. Branded as “crucial yet careful,” Leaving Neverland is the starkest look at Jackson’s abuse allegations.
In 2025, sequel series Leaving Neverland 2: Surviving Michael Jackson was released, though reviews panned it for trying (and failing) to recreate the first installment’s impact.
Michael Jackson: The Legend Continues (1989)
Ending on a high note, Michael Jackson: The Legend Continues has been praised by fans of his music for being the best documentary for capturing the impact of his career. Released in 1989, this was long before any of Jackson’s allegations came to light.
Though less than one hour long, we explore the singer’s life from child prodigy in the Jackson 5 to the peak of his Bad era solo career. Narrated by James Earl Jones, it features rare archive footage, music videos, and interviews with peers like Quincy Jones and Elizabeth Taylor.
The best part? It’s free to stream globally on YouTube — just click the clip above.
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