BBC to release three-part documentary exploring Michael Jackson abuse allegations

A new three-part documentary series, Legacy: Michael Jackson, has been commissioned by BBC Factual as part of its historical programming.

In an announcement made on Monday (October 13), the BBC described the series as “the most fully-rounded and authoritative portrait of Jackson yet produced.”

The documentary promises a comprehensive look at Jackson’s life, using “rare, intimate archive and revelatory interviews with those closest to him” to trace his rise from childhood fame in segregated 1960s America to the controversies and allegations that later shadowed his legacy.

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The new programme joins an already extensive catalogue of documentaries and accounts of Michael Jackson’s life, which have so far created a tapestry of narratives surrounding his personal story.

Most prominently, HBO’s 2019 two-part series Leaving Neverland featured testimonies from survivors Wade Robson and James Safechuck. The documentary - described by The Guardian as “relentlessly spare and unsensationalist” - reignited persistent controversy surrounding the pop star and the allegations against him.

Yet through what the BBC calls a “deeply researched study of a trailblazing musical genius,” the new series aims to unearth Jackson’s “complex enigma".

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Beyond revisiting the allegations, the series will explore the legacy behind Jackson’s most famous songs and performances, while examining how his estate continues to generate billions from his art and how his influence endures in today’s culture.

A biopic due for release in April 2026, simply titled Michael, has already drawn criticism from Leaving Neverland director Dan Reed, who called it “startlingly disingenuous". The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, also stars Jackson’s real-life nephew, Jaafar, who plays the role of Jackson.

Find out more about Legacy: Michael Jackon here.

Annabel Craddock is a freelance journalist, follow her on Instagram