Golden Globes Rejects Lionsgate Bid to Submit Michael as Comedy or Musical

The Golden Globes have turned down Lionsgate's request for its Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, to compete in the comedy or musical categories, according to Variety. The film is currently slated to compete in the drama categories.

Lionsgate's submission included a letter from director Antoine Fuqua backing the request, but the appeal was still denied. The studio could file another appeal before the October 31 submission deadline, though sources told Variety that a further appeal will likely not be pursued.

Michael stars Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson, with Colman Domingo and Nia Long in co-starring roles. The supporting acting categories are not divided by genre, so those performances are unaffected by the ruling.

The Golden Globes accepted Obsession and Tender Loving Care as comedies for consideration, Variety reported.

Why the category question keeps returning

Music biopics have moved between genres at the Globes before. In the mid-2000s, Ray and Walk the Line both competed in — and won — the comedy or musical categories, which prompted a rule change requiring songs to propel the narrative. Bohemian Rhapsody, Elvis and A Complete Unknown were all submitted as dramas in the years since, while Inside Llewyn Davis was permitted to compete as a comedy in its year.

In October 2025, Michael opened on April 24 and became the first biopic in history to surpass $1 billion at the worldwide box office, as well as Lionsgate's biggest release ever. Jaafar Jackson had never acted professionally before taking the role. The 84th Golden Globe nominations will be announced on Monday, December 7, and the ceremony, hosted by Nikki Glaser, is set for Sunday, January 10.