On June 3, 2026, Netflix released a three-part documentary series about Michael Jackson which has reignited the long-running debate over the pop star's legacy. On Flagrant, singer Akon defended his late friend, declaring that "Mike was a legend" and dismissing the allegations against him. He insisted that "it was all bullshit" because of the singer's massive financial power, noting that "it was alleged that at the end of the day, he owned too much."
Other shows are focusing on his eccentricities and the sheer scale of his 90s stardom. On This Past Weekend, host Theo Von recalled the singer's legendary 1996 music video shoot in Rio de Janeiro, noting that despite safety warnings, "the government said it was too unsafe for him to come, but he wanted to come and be around the people." Comedian Matt Rife joked about his own sleep struggles on the episode, saying, "I think I have whatever Michael Jackson had." Meanwhile, on SmartLess, guest Jennifer Lopez put his massive creative budgets into perspective, recalling that "Michael Jackson... used to do, like, $7 million videos."
Yet the controversy surrounding how the pop star is portrayed remains a sticking point. On Pivot, co-host Kara Swisher expressed skepticism about biographical depictions of the singer, noting she has avoided them because they clean up his legacy and exclude the most critical, troubling aspects of his life. As the documentary continues to draw viewers, the battle over whether the singer was an untouchable industry target or a deeply flawed figure will likely keep dominating the airwaves.