Michael Jackson lands the best-selling album of 2026 17 years after his death thanks to the success of his $1billion biopic - beating Olivia Dean and Harry Styles to the crown

Michael Jackson has reclaimed the title of best-selling album artist for the first three quarters of 2026, nearly two decades after his passing. His compilation album, The Essential Michael Jackson, originally released in 2005, has surged ahead in sales and streams, surpassing contemporary releases by artists such as Olivia Dean and Harry Styles.

The resurgence in Jackson’s album sales is closely linked to the April debut of the biographical film titled Michael, which chronicles the life and career of the famed pop icon. The movie features Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, portraying the legendary singer, bringing a fresh portrayal that has resonated with both longstanding fans and a new generation. The film’s commercial success, grossing close to $1 billion globally, has rekindled widespread interest in Michael Jackson’s extensive catalog.

According to data from the UK’s Official Charts Company, The Essential Michael Jackson has moved over 508,000 units through a combination of physical sales, downloads, and streaming platforms. This performance positions it ahead of Olivia Dean’s The Art of Loving and Harry Styles’ Kiss All The Time. The chart reflects a notable cross-generational appeal, blending classic hits with modern music consumption trends.

Jackson’s influence is further underscored by the renewed chart appearances of his seminal studio albums. Thriller, the 1982 record that remains one of music history’s most iconic releases, has climbed to number 16, while his 1987 album Bad has entered the top 20, emphasizing the timeless nature of his work.

Other notable albums in the top rankings include Fleetwood Mac’s 50 Years - Don’t Stop, Olivia Rodrigo’s You Seem Pretty Sad For A Girl So In Love, and releases from artists such as The Weeknd, Ed Sheeran, and Oasis. This diverse top ten lineup illustrates the dynamic landscape of popular music in 2026, where legacy acts coexist with contemporary stars.

The biopic Michael, directed by Antoine Fuqua—known for his work on titles like Training Day and The Equalizer—offers an intimate look at Jackson’s journey from his early days with the Jackson Five through his peak in the 1980s. Despite backing from the singer’s estate and critical acclaim for Jaafar Jackson’s performance, the film faced delays due to legal considerations and required script revisions before its eventual release.

While the film has been embraced by many, it has also attracted scrutiny within Jackson’s family. Notably, his daughter Paris Jackson has publicly distanced herself from the movie, citing concerns about the accuracy of certain portrayals, highlighting the complexities surrounding the star’s legacy.

The ongoing commercial and cultural impact of Michael Jackson’s music, amplified by the film, demonstrates the enduring connection between his artistry and audiences worldwide. His posthumous chart dominance in 2026 reflects not only nostalgia but also the ability of his work to engage listeners across generations, underscoring the lasting significance of his contributions to the music industry.