Nia Long gushes over Michael Jackson biopic star Jaafar: 'He likes it'

Nia Long has nothing for Jaafar Jackson but love after the remarkable success of Michael Jackson biopic.

The 55-year-old American actress showed up on the red carpet of the BET Awards at Peacock Theatre on Sunday, June 28, 2026. Druski, renowned American comedian and actor, is hosting the ceremony.

PEOPLE magazine reported that Nia sang praises of the 29-year-old American singer and actor’s performance as King of Pop Michael Jackson in blockbuster film Michael, which hit theatres on April 22, 2026.

She said, “I met Michael, so I’m watching [Jaafar] in the scenes and I’m like, I don’t want to say anything ‘cause you don’t want to throw off your fellow actor, but I’m blown away.”

“That’s my baby for life. He has another mama whether he likes it or not,” The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air actress remarked.

For those unaware, Nia played the role of Katherine Scruse-Jackson, the matriarch of the Jackson family in Michael, alongside Colman Domingo, Mike Mayers, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, Larenz Tate, Jessica Sula, and others.

Jaafar also revealed how it felt portraying his late uncle Michael in the film, saying, “It all started with understanding what acting is and then diving into all the little nuances of Michael.”

“I really wanted to separate me as a family member to really learn everything I can about Michael Jackson as if I’d never heard his music before,” the son of Jermaine Jackson noted.