Fans attending the premiere of the upcoming Michael biopic noticed one major absence from the story: Janet Jackson.

Now, her sister La Toya Jackson has explained why.

Speaking at the film’s premiere in Hollywood, La Toya revealed that Janet was invited to be part of the project but ultimately decided against it.

Janet Jackson “Kindly Declined”

“I wish everybody was in the movie,” La Toya said during an interview on the red carpet.

“She was asked and she kindly declined so you have to respect her wishes.”

The revelation immediately caught fans’ attention online, especially because Janet played such a major role in the famous Jackson family legacy alongside her late brother Michael Jackson.

Many viewers had expected her to appear in some form within the film’s storyline.

Inside the New Michael Jackson Biopic

Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the upcoming movie aims to tell the story of Michael Jackson’s rise to global fame and the complicated dynamics within the Jackson family.

Michael is portrayed by his real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson, whose performance has already generated strong reactions from family members.

La Toya admitted that watching Jaafar on screen felt emotionally overwhelming because of how closely he resembled Michael’s mannerisms and personality.

According to her, family members often felt like they were “watching Mike” again during filming.

Jackson Family Deeply Involved in the Film

The cast also includes Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson and Nia Long as Katherine Jackson.

La Toya herself is portrayed by actress Jessica Sula.

Director Antoine Fuqua has previously said it was extremely important to involve the Jackson family in the making of the movie in order to capture a more personal and authentic side of Michael’s life.

Fans React to Janet’s Absence

Online reactions have been mixed since La Toya’s comments surfaced.

Some fans said they completely respected Janet’s decision to stay away from the project, especially given the intense scrutiny that often surrounds anything connected to Michael Jackson’s legacy.

Others admitted they were surprised she chose not to participate, considering how closely tied her career and personal history are to the family story being told.

Despite her absence, anticipation surrounding the film continues to grow ahead of its release, with many already calling it one of the most talked-about music biopics in recent years.