Who plays Michael Jackson's mother, Katherine, in Michael?

Nia Long plays Michael Jackson’s mother, Katherine Jackson, in Michael. Her role places her at the center of the Jackson family story alongside Colman Domingo, who portrays Michael’s father, Joe Jackson.

Katherine Jackson was born Katherine Esther Scruse in 1930 and married Joseph Jackson in 1949. She became the mother of ten children, including Michael, Janet, and the other members of the Jackson 5. She supported her children’s musical ambitions and remained an important family figure throughout Michael’s career.

The film dramatizes Michael’s childhood, the Jackson 5’s emergence, and his later transition into a solo superstar. Viewers may confuse Nia Long with other actresses associated with Jackson-related projects, especially Taraji P. Henson, Regina King, or Angela Bassett. Long is known for films such as Boyz n the Hood and The Best Man, as well as television roles in Third Watch and NCIS: Los Angeles.