NASHVILLE, TENN. — Tennessee State University alumnus Jamal Henderson stars as Jermaine Jackson in the Michael Jackson biopic "Michael," which opened on April 24, 2026. The film grossed $97 million domestically and $217 million globally in its first weekend, setting the record for the biggest debut of all time for a biopic.

Henderson, a native of West Virginia, earned a bachelor's degree in architectural engineering from Tennessee State University in 2011 and completed a master's degree in civil engineering there in 2013. He was a member of the men's track team, the Zeta Alpha Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. and Collegiate 100 during his time on campus.

"TSU taught me what it meant to be independent. It was my first time away from the comforts of my home, so I developed a strong sense of self-reliance and confidence in my own ability to adapt to any challenges that arose," Henderson said.

Before relocating to Los Angeles to begin his acting career, Henderson took acting classes in the Nashville area. He appeared in commercials and television films, including "South Central Love" in 2019 and season two of "Mindhunter," before being cast in the biopic.

Henderson recalled his reaction to learning he had landed the role. "I may or may not have run laps around my apartment in jubilation, screaming yes!" he said.

After receiving the call, he began studying Jermaine Jackson's mannerisms and movements by analyzing performances and interviews. He also took bass guitar lessons for a couple of months to prepare.

He described an early moment in production that shaped his approach. "The standout moment for me was my first day of rehearsal, when we saw Jaafar rehearse 'Billie Jean' for the first time. It was electric and I couldn't help but smile and bob my head as I watched him glide across the floor. The feeling in the room was magical, and I knew I had to work twice as hard to ensure I wouldn't let him or anyone else down on this project," he said.

Reflecting on the experience, he said, "I truly can do anything I set my mind to. I learned to play bass, sing, and dance simultaneously. But I also recognized the importance of teamwork, as I couldn't achieve this without all of the grace and belief from others – the support of our crew, of our director, and my fellow cast members."

Henderson credited former men's track coach Kelly Carter, architectural engineering professor Dwight Martin and head cheerleading coach Dwight Pope from Tennessee State University as mentors who laid the foundation for his journey. "All of these men pushed my mentality beyond my comfort zone and instilled within me a trust in myself and my abilities that I did not know I possessed," he said.

"I just hope I can inspire others to keep learning, about themselves and about the world. Embrace the path you lead, and it will lead you to love," he said.