Michael Jackson’s iconic “Thriller” short film has officially joined YouTube’s prestigious Billion Views Club, surpassing a remarkable one billion views since its upload.

“Thriller” is now the fourth video in Michael’s catalog to achieve this milestone, alongside “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and “They Don’t Care About Us.” This historic feat makes him the first artist from the 20th century to have four videos reach over a billion views.

Originally released in 1983 and directed by John Landis, “Thriller” has long been hailed as one of the greatest music videos of all time. In 2017, the short film was restored in 4K and 3D, receiving a limited theatrical release in 2018, where it was shown before screenings of *The House with a Clock in Its Walls*.

In 2022, to coincide with the 40th anniversary of the “Thriller” album, the remastered version was finally updated on YouTube, contributing to its surge in viewership.

Next in line to potentially cross the billion-view mark is “Smooth Criminal,” although it, along with many of his other videos, has yet to receive an official 4K remaster.

halloween came early for the #BillionViewsClub bc Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” has officially reached 1B views! pic.twitter.com/ey2YijLIix

— YouTube Music (@youtubemusic) September 18, 2024