Michael Jackson’s sister, LaToya Jackson, has explained why their sister, Janet Jackson, is not portrayed in “Michael”, the biopic about their brother.

“I wish everybody was in the movie,” LaToya told Variety at the film’s premiere at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on Monday. “She was asked and she kindly declined so you have to respect her wishes.”

Michael is played by the late singer’s nephew Jaafar Jackson, while Joe Jackson is portrayed by Colman Domingo and Nia Long played Katherine Jackson. LaToya is portrayed by Jessica Sula and Juliano Valdi played a younger Michael.

Antoine Fuqua, who directed the film, mentioned that involving the Jackson family in the project was “very important” for him.

“You’re telling somebody’s life, you want to make sure that they’re happy,” he said to Variety.

On Janet, Fuqua said, “I have so much respect and love for Janet, but you know it’s OK. She’s supportive of Jaafar and that’s what matters.”

Michael’s estate contributed financially to the project, with his son, Prince Jackson, serving as an executive producer. Bigi and Paris, the late singer’s other children, are not involved. Paris has criticized the film for having “a lot of inaccuracies” and “a lot of full blown lies,” according to Variety.

Janet has yet to speak about not being portrayed in the movie. She did not attend the premiere, but her siblings, including Jackie, Marlon, Randy and Jermaine, besides LaToya, were present. 

LaToya shared how much she enjoyed her nephew’s performance as Michael in the biopic.

“Oh my gosh, I have to tell you that Jaafar was absolutely fabulous,” LaToya said. “I’m sure you’ve seen the movie and you know how wonderful he is, how we all forget and think that we’re watching Mike. It’s like, ‘Oh, I forgot this is Jaafar.’”

“Michael” is in theaters on Friday, April 24.