Klavans On The Culture Ep. 3: Michael | Should This Movie Be Made?

In this episode of 'Klavans On The Culture,' host Andrew Klavan and guest discuss the controversial biopic 'Michael,' a musical film about Michael Jackson directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring his nephew Jafar Jackson. The conversation centers on the film's omission of the serious pedophilia allegations that shadowed Jackson’s later life, despite legal constraints preventing the filmmakers from including them. Klavan and his guest express deep moral discomfort with the film’s hagiographic tone, arguing that it sanitizes a deeply troubled figure by portraying him as a childlike, divinely inspired artist while ignoring his documented psychological and behavioral issues. They explore the broader philosophical question of whether art can be separated from the artist, drawing on historical and literary examples—from Shakespeare and Oscar Wilde to Plato’s Symposium—to argue that while art can transcend its creator’s flaws, complete moral erasure of the artist’s actions is both dishonest and dangerous. The episode ultimately grapples with the tension between artistic appreciation and ethical accountability, especially in the context of cultural memory and racial dynamics in American entertainment. The hosts reflect on the emotional power of music as a transcendent force that can elevate the soul, even when created by deeply broken individuals. They acknowledge the complexity of idolizing artists whose lives were marred by abuse, addiction, and moral failure, while cautioning against both cancel culture and uncritical veneration. They conclude that the true tragedy lies not in loving art created by flawed people, but in pretending those flaws never existed—especially when they involve the abuse of children. The episode ends with a call to action for listeners to support the show, emphasizing its role as a space for honest, nuanced cultural conversation in an era of increasing polarization.