According to a new report by the Financial Times, Michael Jackson’s estate has quietly paid $2.5 million to settle the final part of a long-standing legal dispute involving allegations of sexual abuse. The payment, made earlier in 2025, went to five plaintiffs who had accused the late pop icon of misconduct. This marks the completion of a broader $16.5 million settlement deal that began in 2020, concluding one of several ongoing legal battles surrounding Jackson’s legacy.
Court documents reveal that the five plaintiffs claim they were pressured into signing the original 2020 settlement under unfair conditions and without fully understanding the legal implications. They are now calling for the case to be reopened and heard publicly in court. Their lawyers argue that only an open trial can ensure transparency and justice, rather than continuing the matter in private arbitration as originally agreed.
The Los Angeles court handling the case will soon decide whether the new proceedings will take place in a public courtroom or behind closed doors. This decision carries significant implications not only for the plaintiffs and the Jackson estate but also for how similar legacy cases are managed in the entertainment industry. Legal experts note that revisiting such settlements years later is rare but could set a precedent for challenging non-disclosure agreements in sensitive cases.
Representatives of Michael Jackson’s estate have firmly rejected the renewed allegations, insisting that all issues were resolved through the 2020 agreement. They emphasize that the settlement terms require confidentiality and private arbitration, arguing that reopening the case would violate those legal commitments. The estate continues to defend Jackson’s reputation, maintaining that all accusations are unfounded and financially motivated.
The Financial Times further reports that the outcome of this dispute could impact the upcoming biopic Michael, slated for release in 2026. Directed by Graham King, the Oscar-winning producer behind Bohemian Rhapsody and The Aviator, the film is expected to reignite public debate about Jackson’s life and controversies. If the court allows a public hearing, the renewed scrutiny could overshadow one of Hollywood’s most anticipated releases of next year.
About the Author
