Netflix Considered Pulling Show

Key Points:

• Netflix considered canceling the Michael Jackson docuseries "The Verdict" shortly before release due to fears of legal action from Jackson's estate, known for its litigiousness, and backlash from fans, but ultimately proceeded with the launch.
• Netflix denied that outside pressure influenced its decision to release the series, which reached the Top 10 on the platform for three weeks, despite receiving numerous fan complaints and a petition to pull the documentary.
• The docuseries provides a balanced view of the 2005 trial, including testimony from both supporters and detractors of Jackson, but did not feature participation from the accuser's family.
• Jackson's fans have strongly opposed the documentary, leading to a low audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes (7%) and calls to cancel Netflix subscriptions, while critics rated it highly (82%).
• Due to concerns about backlash, Netflix limited marketing, delayed announcing the series until two weeks before release, and maintained strict communication protocols with production staff to minimize exposure.