#183 - Michael Jackson

#183 - Michael Jackson

From The Middle by Andy and Roger

April 25, 2026 · 37 min · Season 1 · Episode 183

About this episode

Andy and Roger discuss the complexities of Michael Jackson's legacy in light of a new biopic that has received criticism for sanitizing his life.

🎧 NEW PODCAST EPISODE Episode 183 – Michael Jackson In this episode, Andy and Roger wander into the minefield that is Michael Jackson—prompted by a new biopic that disappoints critics and sugarcoats the real MJ. What starts as a chat about movie reviews quickly turns into a broader discussion about legacy, fame, and whether it’s even possible to tell the truth about someone that famous. They unpack the film’s biggest criticism—that it sanitises Jackson’s life—and ask whether that was inevitable given the family’s involvement. From there, the conversation turns to the strange duality of Michael Jackson himself: a once-in-a-generation entertainer with an undeniable cultural impact, and a deeply complicated figure surrounded by controversy, allegations, and behaviour that doesn’t sit comfortably in hindsight. Andy and Roger debate whether it’s possible to separate the art from the artist, touching on Jackson’s upbringing, the pressures of fame from childhood, and the idea of arrested development. They explore the role of enablers, the cult-like loyalty of fanbases, and how figures like Donald Trump draw similar dynamics in public perception—albeit in very different arenas. The…

People in this episode

Hosts: Andy, Roger

Topics covered

  • Michael Jackson
  • legacy
  • fame
  • biopics
  • art vs artist
  • cultural impact
  • controversy

Keywords

  • Michael Jackson
  • biopic
  • legacy
  • fame
  • controversy
  • art vs artist
  • musical biopics

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Bohemian Rhapsody, Rocketman, Michael Jackson biopic

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