What type of burns does Michael Jackson suffer in Michael (2026 film)?

Michael Jackson suffers third-degree burns in Michael (2026 film).

The injury occurs while Jackson and his brothers are filming a Pepsi commercial. A spark from the production’s pyrotechnics sets his hair on fire, causing third-degree burns and nerve damage.

The film shows Jackson and Branca suing PepsiCo for damages. The settlement proceeds are then directed to the burn center where Jackson was treated. The incident also becomes part of the story leading to Jackson’s decision about whether to join the Victory Tour.

Third-degree burns are severe injuries that can damage the full thickness of the skin and underlying tissue. They are more serious than first- or second-degree burns and commonly require specialist medical treatment. The scene is based on the well-known 1984 Pepsi commercial accident, not on a concert mishap or a recording-studio accident.