Michael Jackson’s Biopic: How ‘Beat It’ and ‘Billie Jean’ Stormed the Charts Again in 2026

Translation resultWith the biopic Michael opening worldwide, a renewed wave of Michael Jackson fever is sweeping the charts: several of his biggest hits have climbed back into the rankings, and “Beat It” has returned to the U.K. Official Singles Chart top five for the first time in 43 years.The Official Charts’ May 17 listings show Jackson — including his work with the Jackson 5 — placed four singles and five albums on the Top 100 this week. On the Official Singles Chart, “Billie Jean” rose one spot to No. 3, while “Beat It” jumped five places to No. 5. “Billie Jean” had re-entered the Top 5 last week at No. 4 — its first Top-5 appearance since 1983 — and “Beat It” now matches that milestone, returning to the Top 5 for the first time since 1983. “Human Nature” sits at No. 6, and the Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back” ranks at No. 27.Jackson’s popularity also dominated the Official Albums Chart. The greatest-hits compilation THE ESSENTIAL held the No. 1 spot for a second consecutive week, bringing its cumulative total to nine weeks at the top. Thriller landed at No. 5, BAD at No. 6, Off the Wall at No. 39, and Dangerous at No. 74 — five albums in all.The film traces Jackson’s life in biopic form, following his rise from a poor childhood and performances with the Jackson 5 to superstardom as a solo artist. His nephew Jaafar Jackson stars in the role and has been widely praised for his resemblance to Michael, his dance lines and his onstage presence.Critics have noted the film’s straightforward storytelling and occasional flatness, but audiences have embraced the irresistible hits and dazzling performances. Iconic songs such as “Billie Jean,” “Thriller” and “Beat It,” along with signature moments like the moonwalk, are vividly recreated on the big screen, prompting many viewers to say the music alone makes the film worthwhile.With members of the Bohemian Rhapsody production team involved, the movie is credited with reinvigorating Jackson’s signature songs and performances in a way that delivers a concert-like immersion for audiences.