Netflix almost pulled a controversial Michael Jackson documentary before it ever aired. According to a recent report, the documentary series was nearly shelved over fears of legal action. However, the series premiered on schedule and gained instant international popularity.
Why did the Michael Jackson TV show almost get axed by Netflix?
According to Variety, Netflix nearly canceled the launch of Michael Jackson: The Verdict just a week before its June 3 premiere.
The report states that fears of a lawsuit sparked concern among Netflix executives. They considered canceling the show’s release after it had already been publicized. This fear is justified since Michael Jackson’s family has sued numerous times in order to protect his image.
A source claimed, “It was the fear of a lawsuit from the estate rather than the fans. [Netflix] was really scared of their financial muscle.”
Another source said, “It would have been very embarrassing to pull the series after you drop the trailer — it would have been a huge story.”
However, Netflix strongly refuted the claims. The streaming giant said, “Characterizations that Netflix reconsidered the release or changed course because of outside pressure are inaccurate. The series launched as planned and reached the Netflix Top 10 for three weeks.”
The report also says Netflix took additional precautions before the series’ release. The series was announced just two weeks before its release. Marketing was reportedly scaled back, no advance screenings were held, and interviews with the filmmakers were reportedly restricted.
Michael Jackson: The Verdict is a documentary series directed by Nick Green and produced by Candle True Stories that features testimony from witnesses involved in Michael Jackson’s 2005 trial, who was acquitted of child molestation charges, including jurors, his associates, and lifelong supporters.
Despite all these backstage worries, the series proved to be a major success on Netflix. It drew 17.8 million views within its first five days of release. It reached No. 1 in 61 countries and entered the Top 10 in 89 others.
