The team behind the blockbuster biographical drama "Michael" will be recognized this awards season with the Gotham Musical Tribute at the 36th Annual Gotham Film Awards ceremony. The tribute acknowledges the filmmakers and ensemble who adapted Michael Jackson's storied career and private life for the big screen.

Gotham Honors Antoine Fuqua, Jaafar Jackson, and Creative Team
The award specifically honors director Antoine Fuqua, producer Graham King, and cast members Jaafar Jackson, Colman Domingo, and Nia Long. Their project examines the late pop icon's trajectory starting from his early days performing in The Jackson Five through his ascent to worldwide fame, covering his experiences on and off the stage.
Special Tributes Announced for the 36th Gotham Film Awards
| Honor | Recipient | Project / Organization |
|---|---|---|
| Gotham Musical Tribute | Antoine Fuqua, Graham King, Colman Domingo, Jaafar Jackson, Nia Long | Michael |
| Gotham Director Tribute | Danny Boyle | Ink |
| Gotham Vanguard Tribute | Creative Team | La Bola Negra |
| Gotham Anniversary Tribute | Laika Studios | Laika Studios |
Written by John Logan, "Michael" was produced by King alongside John Branca and John McClain. The cast also features Laura Harrier, Juliano Krue Valdi, and Miles Teller.
Jeffrey Sharp, executive director of the Gotham Film and Media Institute, praised the filmmakers in a statement announcing the selection. Sharp noted that the institute was delighted to honor the group for translating Jackson's legacy to film, remarking that their contribution captures the humanity of one of music history's most notable figures.
Evolution of the Gotham Musical Tribute
This presentation marks only the second year the Gotham Film and Media Institute has handed out the Gotham Musical Tribute. The honor was inaugurated at the prior ceremony, where it was presented to Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson for their work on "Song Sung Blue."
The tribute comes following historic commercial success for the project. "Michael" surpassed $1 billion in global ticket sales, ranking it as the highest-grossing biographical film ever released. Following that milestone, a sequel has officially entered development.
Additional 2026 Gotham Film Awards Honorees
The musical tribute is one of several special distinctions set to be handed out during the event. The Gotham Awards will also bestow the Gotham Director Tribute upon filmmaker Danny Boyle for "Ink."
Additionally, the film "La Bola Negra" has been chosen for the Gotham Vanguard Tribute, while animation studio Laika Studios is slated to receive the Gotham Anniversary Tribute.
The 36th Annual Gotham Film Awards ceremony will take place on November 30 at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City, with the standard competitive nominees scheduled to be revealed on October 27.
Source: Variety
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