Actor and comedian Flex Alexander has reflected on the controversial 2004 biopic Man in the Mirror: The Michael Jackson Story, in which he took on the role of the legendary King of Pop.
A week ago, Alexander was a guest on The Art of Dialogue, where the topic of the upcoming Jackson biopic, Michael, which stars the King of Pop’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, in the titular role, came to light.
It was more than 20 years ago that Alexander took on the role of the late singer in the made-for-TV film Man in the Mirror, which addressed allegations of child sexual abuse made against the singer.
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Alex looked back and said he was full of “admiration” for Jackson, and that was what pushed him to audition for the role.
According to Complex, producers allegedly told him that the project would be an “homage” to the 13-time Grammy winner, and claimed that they had gained licensing rights to his music.
“So at that time, imagine hearing that and thinking it’s going to be like the movie that’s coming out with Jaafar playing his uncle,” Alexander said at the two-minute mark of the video below. “I’m thinking like that’s what it’s going to be like.”
The comedian stated that he was given a “nice check” for the role, insisting that he thought the movie would be more of a tribute to Jackson.
Also, he revealed that he practiced reciting Jackson’s performances in the Mirror before lawyers told him that the music’s use was unauthorized and therefore wouldn’t be included in the film.
Among Alexander’s other grievances was the white paint being airbrushed onto him to depict Jackson’s vitiligo, and the fact that the legendary singer was insulted by the film.
Michael Jackson died on June 25, 2009, at his home in Holmby Hills, Los Angeles, California, and is largely known for his groundbreaking music career, which earned him the title “King of Pop”.
He revolutionized music videos and popular culture globally from the 1980s, including iconic albums like Thriller, which remains the best-selling album of all time.
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Also, he holds an impressive Grammy record, including winning a record-breaking eight awards in one night in 1984, primarily for Thriller. The work of Michael Jackson was highly acknowledged after receiving the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010.
