United Kingdom, April 21 -- Janet Jackson is said to have declined to appear in the new biopic Michael about her late brother.

Janet's sister, fellow singer LaToya Jackson, 69, made the claim while speaking at the premiere of the Antoine Fuqua-directed film Michael, which charts the life of Michael Jackson.

LaToya told Variety about her 59-year-old sibling: "I wish everybody was in the movie. (Janet) was asked and she kindly declined so you have to respect her wishes."

Michael features Jaafar Jackson as Michael, with Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson and Nia Long playing Katherine Jackson.

Jessica Sula plays LaToya, while Juliano Valdi portrays a younger version of Michael.

The project, set for release in cinemas on 24 April, has been de...