‘Michael' star Jaafar Jackson' gets verdict from Jason Weaver

Few people know what it takes to play Michael Jackson. Jason Weaver is one of them – and he’s impressed by what he’s seen.

More than three decades after portraying a young Michael Jackson in The Jacksons: An American Dream, Weaver is applauding Jaafar Jackson’s performance in the new biopic Michael.

“I'm so proud of everybody that's been involved in that film,” Weaver said, singling out Jaafar, the son of Michael’s brother Jermaine Jackson.

Watching the film felt personal for the actor.

“I saw myself,” Weaver admitted.

Having walked in those shoes before, Weaver understands the challenge of portraying one of music’s most iconic and scrutinised figures.

“Being that I did play Michael Jackson, I know the amount of work that you need to put in and personal sacrifice and commitment in order for your performance to be believable,” he said.

And in his view, Jaafar delivered.

“I just think that Jaafar exceeded all of our expectations,” Weaver continued. “Of course he looks like him because he's Jermaine's son. But past that, I think he really embraced and made it his own.”

Weaver also hopes audiences embrace the new film rather than compare it endlessly to the beloved 1992 miniseries.

“I am flattered that people still look back at the Jacksons miniseries with fond memories and complimentary words,” he said.

“But I also want people to really take the time — appreciate the nostalgia and what that was at that moment — but also give this film an opportunity to exist in our hearts as well.”

Recently, Weaver revisited the Jackson family’s childhood home in Gary, Indiana, describing the experience as both emotional and meaningful.

“It definitely brought me back... I wanted to pay homage to Michael and the family, but I also wanted to feel that for myself to be able to have that experience.”

For Weaver, it seems the legacy continues – and a new generation is ready to tell the story.