We demand the casting of white actor Joseph Fiennes as Michael Jackson in Sky Art's upcoming film be reversed. This is yet another attempt at Hollywood white washing that is completely unacceptable.

Michael Jackson was a black American who suffered from vitiligo as confirmed by his official autopsy report. He was extremely proud to be black and said so throughout his life. Michael supported black communities, attended black pride events, wrote songs/spoke out against police brutality/institutional racism, and explicitly stated to Oprah that he would not want a white actor to portray him because he was a black American. Thus, Sky Arts should honor his wish, his race, and his life by casting a black actor in the role of Michael Jackson.

Until the decision to recast Fiennes is made, we will boycott this film.