Michael Jackson: The Verdict releases on Netflix today, revisiting one of the most high-profile trials in entertainment history

A new documentary series examining one of the most closely scrutinised celebrity court cases ever is now available to stream on Netflix.

Michael Jackson: The Verdict premieres today (June 3), offering viewers a detailed look back at the 2005 trial that saw the King of Pop face allegations of child molestation before ultimately being acquitted on all charges.

More than two decades after the case dominated headlines around the world, the three-part docuseries revisits the legal battle through the accounts of people who were directly involved. Jurors, eyewitnesses, members of the media, and individuals connected to both the prosecution and defence share their perspectives on the proceedings and the impact the trial had on public perceptions of Michael Jackson.

What is Michael Jackson: The Verdict about?

The series explores how the courtroom drama unfolded and examines why debate surrounding the case has continued long after Jackson’s death in 2009.

Directed by Nick Green and executive produced by Fiona Stourton, the documentary aims to present a comprehensive account of the trial and the evidence that was presented in court.

“It has been 20 years since the trial of Michael Jackson in which he was found not guilty. Yet, to this day, controversy still rages,” the filmmakers tell Tudum. “No cameras were allowed in court, and so the public’s view of the facts at the time were filtered by commentators and presented piecemeal. It was time to take a forensic look at the trial as a whole.

“Anyone interested in the Michael Jackson story should feel this documentary gives them a window into what was largely a closed event and a chance to feel closer to what happened.”

The documentary focuses on firsthand testimony from those who witnessed the trial up close, with the filmmakers explaining that authenticity was a key objective throughout production.

“The aim was to take the audience inside the proceedings and only speak to eyewitnesses who played a part in those events,” the filmmakers say.

Michael Jackson: The Verdict is streaming on Netflix from today.