Michael Jackson, known as the King of Pop, was not only a musical icon but also harbored aspirations of becoming a movie star. Throughout his illustrious career, Jackson pursued various film projects, showcasing his passion for acting and directing. Despite his significant contributions to film through projects like “The Wiz,” “Moonwalker,” and “Captain EO,” Jackson’s pursuit of larger roles in major films was often met with obstacles. Here, we explore seven notable movies that Michael Jackson nearly starred in, offering a glimpse into a cinematic journey that could have changed the landscape of film.
One of the most intriguing instances was his desire to play Willy Wonka in Tim Burton’s adaptation of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Jackson was captivated by the project from its inception in 1999, even recording an entire soundtrack in hopes of securing the role. While Warner Brothers appreciated his musical contributions, they ultimately opted for Johnny Depp to portray the beloved chocolatier, leaving Jackson feeling disheartened and sidelined.
In a different realm, Jackson’s name came up during the casting of “Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace.” Initially considered for the role of Jar Jar Binks, Jackson’s vision of using prosthetics and makeup clashed with director George Lucas’s preference for CGI. The opportunity slipped away, with actor Ahmed Best stepping into the role while Jackson’s ambitions remained unfulfilled.
Jackson’s enthusiasm for superheroes also led him to express interest in Sam Raimi’s “Spider-Man.” A well-known comic book aficionado, Jackson even contemplated purchasing Marvel Comics to secure the rights to the character. His conversations with Stan Lee revealed his deep desire to embody Peter Parker, but these plans ultimately fell through, leading to Tobey Maguire landing the role.
Another project that saw Jackson’s involvement was the animated film “Cats Don’t Dance.” Initially set to star and contribute to the film’s music and choreography, Jackson’s vision of a live-action and CGI blend was never realized. By 1994, his commitments to other projects led him to withdraw from the production entirely.
In the realm of fantasy, Steven Spielberg approached Jackson for the role of Peter Pan in “Hook.” However, after reviewing the story details, Jackson chose to pass, which allowed Robin Williams to take on the iconic character. Reports suggest that Jackson was frustrated with Spielberg, even resorting to extreme measures by seeking a voodoo curse against the director, reflecting the intensity of his disappointment.
Jackson’s affinity for classic literature made him a potential candidate for the role of Quasimodo in Disney’s adaptation of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.” His admiration for Victor Hugo’s story was evident, but despite discussions with screenwriter Tom Headley, the role never materialized.
Lastly, Jackson’s fascination with the character Edward in “Edward Scissorhands” led him to pursue the role fervently. Despite his persistent efforts to convince Tim Burton to cast him, Jackson’s attempts went unanswered, resulting in Johnny Depp embodying the misunderstood character.
While Michael Jackson never appeared in these films, his influence on the entertainment industry remains profound. His contributions to music videos and stage performances continue to captivate audiences around the world. As we reflect on the films he nearly starred in, we are reminded of the multifaceted talent that Jackson possessed, which extended far beyond music and into the realm of cinema. For fans of both Jackson and film, these “what could have been” stories offer a tantalizing glimpse into the intersections of music and movie magic.
