Michael Jackson's Controversial Neverland Theme Park Has Been 'Brought Back To Life'
Michael Jackson's famous Neverland Ranch has been meticulously restored as a vibrant setting for the new biopic about his life, titled "Michael". This biopic stars Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, taking on the lead role, with a scheduled release in April next year.
Neverland, once a symbol of Jackson's most extravagant fantasies, from its whimsical rides to the legendary petting zoo, is set to captivate audiences once again, showcasing its restored glory on the silver screen.
Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch, a symbol of his creative and personal life, has been brought back to life. This restoration is not just about refurbishing the property but is part of a larger project—a biopic detailing the pop icon's life.
The film, "Michael", casts Jaafar Jackson, Michael's nephew, in the titular role, promising an intimate look at the singer's journey through stardom.
The sprawling ranch in California, originally bought by Jackson in 1988, was transformed into Neverland, a magical theme park complete with a ferris wheel, a circus tent, and various other attractions.
It became a place of joy, hosting numerous celebrity events, including Elizabeth Taylor’s wedding in 1991. However, the ranch also saw darker times, especially in 2003, when it was searched by police amidst allegations against Jackson, leading to a highly publicized trial.
Despite being acquitted of all charges, Jackson deserted Neverland in 2005, claiming it no longer felt like a home. Following his death in 2009, the ranch's fame dwindled, and its rides and zoo were dismantled. It was eventually sold in 2020 for $22 million, a steep drop from its original asking price of $100 million.
Jaafar Jackson is set to star as his late uncle in an upcoming biopic named Michael.
Now, as part of the preparations for the biopic, the ranch has undergone significant renovations. The rides are back, and the park's original charm has been revived, ready to be featured in the film.
The script for "Michael" has been penned by John Logan, known for "Gladiator" and "Skyfall", and directed by Antoine Fuqua of "Training Day" fame. Filming began in January 2024 after delays due to the SAG-AFTRA strike.
This revival of Neverland is not just a tribute to Michael Jackson’s legacy but also a chance for new audiences to experience the wonder he created. The biopic aims to offer a nuanced portrayal of his life and career, celebrating his immense cultural impact while also examining the complexities of his personal struggles.
Through "Michael", Neverland will once again be a place of fascination, drawing viewers into the extraordinary world Jackson once built.
