A musical based on the life of Michael Jackson is in development and is expected to hit Broadway in 2020, the late star’s estate has announced.

Jackson, who died at the age of 50 in 2009, was one of the biggest popstars in history and left behind an extensive catalogue of hit songs, including Thriller, Billie Jean and Beat It.

Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson’s life will be the subject of a new Broadway musical, his estate has announced. (Lewis Whyld/PA)

Many of the tracks will feature in the production, according to the Michael Jackson estate and Columbia Live Stage, the theatrical division of Sony Pictures Entertainment.

Lynn Nottage, a two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, will write the book for the as-yet-untitled show, while Tony Award winner Christopher Wheeldon will direct and choreograph the musical.

Other pop stars to have Broadway musicals based on their lives include Carole King, Gloria Estefan and Donna Summer.