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The highly anticipated Michael biopic feels like a win for Black people everywhere. And that’s because it is. Releasing on April 24, it not only unpacks Michael Jackson’s iconic life and career, but depicts Black excellence at its finest, both behind and in front of the cameras. Though there have been several interpretations of the late entertainer’s story, it’s the key players behind this Antoine Fuqua film that make it feel truly “the greatest of all time,” as MJ affirms in one scene. And there’s one powerhouse whose impeccable eye makes it even more special, the project’s costume designer, Marci Rodgers. 

Her work spans film, television, and stage, including She’s Gotta Have It, Wu Tang: An American Saga, and Till. And she’s even earned a membership to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. While Rodgers’s college education, between Howard University and Central Saint Martins in London, well prepared her for such accomplishments, it all started with the belief she had in herself. “Long story short, I manifested it,” she says. “I remember walking through the [Howard] yard with a friend of mine, and said, ‘I want to be a costume designer.’ She looked at me like I was not here. And I was like, ‘Seriously.’”

This unwavering confidence, along with encouragement from her mentor, eventually led her to the University of Maryland to further her skills in design and theater, for which she got a full ride. As the only person of color in the costume design program, she worked harder to reach the same level as her classmates. It wasn’t long before she caught the attention of legendary filmmaker Spike Lee, showing the power of self-confidence, perseverance, and manifestation.

It was this foundation that makes Rodgers’s role as Michael’s costumer inevitable. But taking on this feat wasn’t a matter of choice. The call came in the wake of her sister and grandmother’s passings, just two weeks apart, with Jackson being her sister’s favorite artist. “The last dance that I remember vividly my sister fighting through to conjure up enough strength, was a song by Michael Jackson because he was her favorite artist,” she reflects. “That’s why for me, it was more of an opportunity to celebrate her life, plus honor his legacy through my interpretation of wardrobe.” 

She more than honored his legacy, not by merely remaking Jackson’s looks from an aloof perspective, or sourcing pieces from brands he loved, like Balmain and Versace. By studying fabric, notions, and archival footage of the superstar, she handmade all of Jackson’s outfits—even the silver, black, and white ensemble from his unforgettable performance of “Billie Jean” on Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, and Forever. 

“It was exciting because, fun fact, he wore his mother’s jacket in that concert,” she explains. “But someone associated with the family helped execute Michael’s design for the glove and the socks, so those notions and what was needed to recreate the socks were still available to me. I was even OCD about the rhinestones.”

This meticulous attention to detail is part of what makes the movie’s costumes more than just costumes. Each piece not only emulated the King of Pop’s distinct sartorial sense, but they were used to reflect character evolution. Take, for example, Michael’s embrace of aviators and military jackets when he finally broke free from his father’s manipulation, and stepped into the solo era he once dreamed of. Katherine (played by Nia Long) donned a white power suit when she stood up to Joseph during this transition, representing the authority and strength of a mother who protects her children, against all odds. 

Rodgers’s artistry on Michael is just as innovative as the singer was. She approached the project with a “careful and respectful” mindset, underscoring her determination to deliver exceptional work despite hardship and adversity—a commitment reflected in her decision to make and stitch every piece herself. Her personal touch elevates the film’s storytelling, adding a level of insight that aligns with how she (and the rest of us) understood Michael: a student of his craft. 

More importantly, this isn’t just a standout addition to her already impressive résumé; it’s Rodgers’s way of honoring Jackson’s enduring impact while showcasing Black brilliance and creativity in all its glory. “I hope everyone will keep in mind that I had a great task of recreating the biggest icon on the planet…it was important to me, and it still is.”

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