Michael Jackson was struggling to sleep, had insomnia: How propofol drug led to the pop music icon’s death? Here’s what you need to know as his biopic trailer is released

Sixteen years after Michael Jackson, the king of pop, died, his biopic named “Michael” is set to hit the theatres on April 24, 2026. The first trailer of the pop music legend’s biopic was released on Thursday (November 6, 2025) by Lionsgate, the company which is handling the distribution in America. The global launch and distribution is being handled by Universal.

"I know you've been waiting a long time for this," the star's producer Quincy Jones (played by Kendrick Sampson) says in the opening shot of the preview, as quoted by ABC News. "The tracks are made; the songs are ready. Let's take it from the top."

The minute-long trailer gives a glimpse into Michael Jackson’s life and career. It has been set to a medley of his popular tracks. A shot of the pop icon and his family laughing around a kitchen table appears on the screen between scenes of him performing on stage. "This is your story. I know your past and embrace the future. That's what people want," Jones says in a voice-over.

How did Michael Jackson die?

Jackson died on June 25, 2009, sending shockwaves across the world, leaving a legacy of his songs for his fans to cherish. Wednesday, June 25, marks the 16th anniversary of his demise. The King of Pop breathed his last in Los Angeles at the age of 50. He died of an overdose of the anesthetic propofol. Conrad Murray, his personal doctor, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in 2011.

What is propofol?

A widely used anesthetic in U.S. hospitals, Propofol is a widely used is a white, oily solution injected into a vein, according to LiveNOW. It acts fast, in about 40 seconds, and wears off quickly too. Patients wake up with no hangover or nausea.

Why did Jackson take propofol?

According to LiveNOW from Fox, Jackson had been finding it really difficult to sleep, and reportedly had chronic insomnia. The pop music sensation was doing rehearsals for a world tour at the time of his demise which was aimed at reigniting his career and rehabilitating his image.

ALSO READ: ‘Michael’ trailer: Who is Jaafar Jackson, nephew stepping into the King of Pop’s shoes? Everything you need to know about cast, release date, key moments, and controversies

Following his death, a televised memorial service was held at the then-Staples Center in Los Angeles. Jackson was buried at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California, nearly two months following his death.