Industry

Michael Jackson's 'Chicago' Becomes Viral Hit, Decades After Its Release

Antoine Fuqua's Michael biopic has grossed over $700 million globally, sparking a resurgence in Michael Jackson's catalog, with 'Chicago' now a viral hit.

Variety Music·May 20, 2026·via Variety Music

Michael Jackson's 'Chicago' Becomes Viral Hit, Decades After Its Release

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May 20, 2026 12:40pm PT

How Michael Jackson’s ‘Chicago’ Went From Leftover Track to Viral Hit Decades Later

By Mike Wass

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Mike Wass

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Michael Jackson’s biopic might have left some critics cold, but it’s a runaway success by every other measure. Antoine Fuqua’s “Michael” just passed $700 million at the global box office, while renewed interest in the late superstar’s catalog has sent classics like “Billie Jean,” “Beat It” and “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” back to the top of the streaming charts. Curiously, it also revived a song not featured in the film — or even released during Jackson’s lifetime.