US director Antoine Fuqua (57, "Training Day", "The Equalizer") has found the leading actor for his planned film about the life of pop star Michael Jackson. The nephew of the "King of Pop", who died in 2009, Jaafar Jackson (26), is said to play the leading role, Fuqua said on Instagram.

Jafaar Jackson, son of musician Jermaine Jackson (68), wrote on Instagram that he was honored to bring his uncle's story to life. "See you soon," he added in a message to Michael Jackson fans. Filming is slated to begin later this year.

"For me, there is no other artist with the power, charisma and musical talent of Michael Jackson," Fuqua said in a recent statement. Jackson's work had a strong influence on him, even in his early work as a music video director. In the 1990s, Fuqua collaborated with musicians such as Prince, Queen Latifah and Toni Braxton.

Jackson died at the age of 50

According to the studio Lionsgate, the film should shed light on the entire life of the "King of Pop", who became one of the most famous singers in the world with hits like "Billie Jean", "Beat It" and "Thriller". His eccentric lifestyle and allegations of abuse later scratched his image. The pop star, who was on stage with his siblings as a child, died in 2009 at the age of 50.

British star producer Graham King ("Bohemian Rhapsody", "Aviator") and the singer's family are on board with the project. The screenplay is provided by author John Logan ("Gladiator", "James Bond 007: Specter", "Alien: Covenant").