Uploaded April 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Michael Jackson: One of the most influential artists of all time. A musical genius, cultural icon and the undisputed King of Pop. Yet that legacy comes with controversy, allegations and unanswered questions.
This documentary takes a deep dive into Michael Jackson’s rise to global superstardom, his revolutionary music and dance innovations, and why his influence can still be found everywhere from TikTok to the pop music of today. Alongside that we look at allegations against him of child sexual abuse, along with the court trials and the film "Leaving Neverland." As well, we examine an ongoing debate: Whether it’s ethical, or even possible, to separate art from artist.
We hear from fans, dancers, journalists and members of his inner circle. This film explores why Michael Jackson is still admired by millions, why some turned away, and what's been left out of the biopic "Michael", which has just had its world premiere in Berlin. Is it still possible to enjoy his music today — or have the accusations changed everything?
Now it’s your turn: Have you been able to remain a Michael Jackson fan?
Share your thoughts in the comments.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Michael Jackson Explained
01:25 Michael Jackson as role model
03:54 Rise to become King of Pop
05:35 Michael Jackson and the Black community
06:34 Who was Michael Jackson?
08:23 Dark side of stardom
#dwculture, #dwcultureexplained
CREDITS
Report: Christine Lebert
Camera: Neven Hillebrands, Nicholas Counter
Editing: David Jacobi
Producer: Oliver Glasenapp
Executive Producers: Melanie von Marschalck, Matthias Frickel
For more visit:
dw.com/en/culture/s-1441
Please follow DW's netiquette: https://p.dw.com/p/MF1G
Michael Jackson: One of the most influential artists of all time. A musical genius, cultural icon and the undisputed King of Pop. Yet that legacy comes with controversy, allegations and unanswered questions.
This documentary takes a deep dive into Michael Jackson’s rise to global superstardom, his revolutionary music and dance innovations, and why his influence can still be found everywhere from TikTok to the pop music of today. Alongside that we look at allegations against him of child sexual abuse, along with the court trials and the film "Leaving Neverland." As well, we examine an ongoing debate: Whether it’s ethical, or even possible, to separate art from artist.
We hear from fans, dancers, journalists and members of his inner circle. This film explores why Michael Jackson is still admired by millions, why some turned away, and what's been left out of the biopic "Michael", which has just had its world premiere in Berlin. Is it still possible to enjoy his music today — or have the accusations changed everything?
Now it’s your turn: Have you been able to remain a Michael Jackson fan?
Share your thoughts in the comments.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Michael Jackson Explained
01:25 Michael Jackson as role model
03:54 Rise to become King of Pop
05:35 Michael Jackson and the Black community
06:34 Who was Michael Jackson?
08:23 Dark side of stardom
#dwculture, #dwcultureexplained
CREDITS
Report: Christine Lebert
Camera: Neven Hillebrands, Nicholas Counter
Editing: David Jacobi
Producer: Oliver Glasenapp
Executive Producers: Melanie von Marschalck, Matthias Frickel
For more visit:
dw.com/en/culture/s-1441
Please follow DW's netiquette: https://p.dw.com/p/MF1G
