Lionsgate's 'Michael' Biopic Sets Record with Over $200 Million Global Opening
The musical biopic 'Michael' from Lionsgate achieved a global opening weekend of more than $200 million, exceeding expectations. Variety's podcast discussed this performance, comparing it to the 2018 film 'Bohemian Rhapsody.' The episode also covered a surprise appearance by Madonna at a West Hollywood venue.
hollywoodreporter.comLionsgate's musical biopic "Michael" recorded a global opening weekend of more than $200 million, surpassing the studio's expectations. The film focuses on a pop superstar, drawing comparisons to the 2018 biopic "Bohemian Rhapsody" about Freddie Mercury and Queen, which earned over $900 million worldwide.
the latest episode of Variety's "Daily Variety" podcast, released on April 27, 2026, reporter Rebecca Rubin analyzed the box office results. She noted similarities between "Michael" and "Bohemian Rhapsody" as benchmarks for the genre.
The podcast also featured a segment by Marc Malkin on Madonna's surprise visit to the Abbey in West Hollywood. Separate recent stories mentioned in the podcast include Dan Steinman joining Madison Wells as president and chief content officer, announced three hours prior to the episode.
Other headlines covered a shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner two days ago, where President Trump and the First Lady were evacuated and a suspect was taken into custody, with President Trump stating he would reschedule the event. Additionally, the Michael Jackson estate faces sexual abuse allegations from four siblings, reported three days ago, claiming they were groomed and brainwashed by the pop superstar.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
5 events- April 27, 2026
Variety released a podcast episode discussing the record opening of 'Michael' and Madonna's appearance.
1 source@Variety - 3 hours before podcast
Dan Steinman joined Madison Wells as president and chief content officer.
1 source@Variety - 2 days before podcast
Shooting occurred at White House Correspondents’ Dinner, leading to evacuation and suspect custody.
1 source@Variety - 3 days before podcast
Michael Jackson estate faced sexual abuse allegations from four siblings.
1 source@Variety - Recent weekend
'Michael' biopic opened globally to more than $200 million.
1 source@Variety
Potential Impact
- 01
Lionsgate may see increased revenue from 'Michael' following its strong opening.
- 02
The biopic's success could encourage more music biopics in production.
- 03
Allegations against Michael Jackson estate might lead to legal proceedings.
- 04
White House dinner rescheduling could affect media and political events.
- 05
Madonna's appearance may boost visibility for the West Hollywood venue.
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