‘Michael’: Golden Globes Reject Submission to Compete in Comedy/Musical Categories

The biopic "Michael," starring Jamie Foxx as Michael Jackson, was rejected by the Golden Globes from competing in the comedy or musical categories. Lionsgate had submitted the film in those categories, but their bid was turned down. This means "Michael" will now compete in the drama categories against other major films such as "The Odyssey." The lead actor in the drama category will also be a Jackson, as Foxx will be competing against actors like Matt Damon, John Malkovich, and Andrew Scott.

Supporting actors Colman Domingo and Nia Long, who play roles in "Michael," will not be affected by this decision, as Golden Globes' decision about non-genre specific supporting acting categories does not impact their campaigns.

The Golden Globes defines a musical as a comedy or drama where songs are used to advance the plot. Despite a letter from director Antoine Fuqua arguing the musical performances in "Michael" are narrative drivers, the committee reviewing submissions felt their musical elements did not meet the criteria. Previous biopics like "Bohemian Rhapsody" about Freddie Mercury and "Elvis" about Elvis Presley, both of which competed as dramas at the Globes, suggest that similar films might have been accepted as musicals had they been submitted a few years earlier.

"Michael" premiered in April and became the first biopic to gross $1 billion worldwide despite mixed reviews and a challenging production process. Nominations for the 84th Golden Globes will be announced on December 7, and the ceremony, hosted by Nikki Glaser, will air on January 10.