Tre’ Horton is stepping into the spotlight in a major way. The rising actor, dancer, and singer delivers his breakout performance as Marlon Jackson in his first tilm, Michael, the biopic chronicling the life of pop icon Michael Jackson. Released on April 24, the film quickly became a global box office force, surpassing $430 million in its first two weeks.
Starring Jaafar Jackson as the King of Pop, Michael traces Jackson’s journey from his early days with the Jackson 5 to his solo rise in the 1980s. As Marlon—the sixth child of the iconic family and a key member of the group—Horton brings fresh energy and emotional depth to a legacy that continues to shape music history.
For our latest digital feature, we spoke with Tre’ about the responsibility of portraying a real person within one of music’s most iconic families, and how he approached portraying Marlon on screen.
Photography and styling by Kevin Hernandez.
Tell us about how you came to be cast as Marlon—what was the audition process like, and can you describe the moment you found out you got the role?
Tre’: As soon as I heard there was going to be a Michael Jackson movie, I knew I wanted to be a part of it in any kind of way. I was very excited and blessed that I got the audition for it. Just like any audition, to perfect it, I went down a rabbit hole studying all things Marlon. After I sent in my audition, I got a call back, then there was a dance call back, and then a hair/makeup screen test. Due to the Sag-Aftra strike, I didn’t get the call from my agent until months later that I booked it. I was sitting at the bar at the Cheesecake Factory—I won’t ever forget it.
How did your background in dance and musical theater influence the way you prepared for this role?
Tre’: It really helped me. I hadn’t focused on anything dance or musical at that time. Getting this role, I really had to reawaken that talent. Marlon is an amazing dancer, so it was important to me that I got his particular dance style right. I watched a lot of the Jacksons’ performances over and over—even Marlon’s solo performances.
What was the process like working alongside the Jackson family, given their close involvement in the film?
Tre’: It was great! Working alongside the Jackson family definitely adds that personal touch to the film. This is a labor of love project, and it was wonderful to have them involved.
What does stepping into such an iconic musical legacy mean to you both personally and professionally?
Tre’: This is definitely a full-circle moment. I grew up watching Michael and his performances. Now I get to say my first film is the Michael Jackson movie. Professionally, this has set the standard extremely high. I just want to continue to learn, grow, and showcase my talent.
Photographer and Stylist: Kevin Hernandez
What was it like collaborating with Jaafar Jackson?
Tre’: It was great. Jaafar is a revolutionary and an amazing talent. Watching him inspired me to give it my all. We all, in a way, had to match his energy, and he set the bar extremely high. I can’t wait for everyone to see his performance.
Looking back, what were the biggest learning curves from an acting perspective you encountered while taking on this role?
Tre’: I’d say the biggest learning curves I encountered were embodying the emotions of a real-life person. Going through the motions of this project, I always tried to do what I believed Marlon would do in situations.
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Michael is playing in theaters.
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