Michael's Children on Youtube

I know this issue is slightly old news by now, but I have just now had a minute to write about it. Plus, sadly, I fear the matter will not just vanish as Michael Jackson’s three children, Prince, Paris, and Blanket, provide fodder for some media outlets.
Around May 12, the news of youtube footage featuring Michael’s youngest son Blanket and his daughter Paris (in a separate clip) hit the Internet. I hear and read the clips show the children being, well, children. Personally, I refuse to watch the footage as I have been rating against this invasion of privacy since I first read about it. In this case, I feel I do not actually have to watch the footage to be able to talk about the issue at hand.
Obviously, Michael had always attempted to keep his children as hidden as possible from public view and curiosity. While this very personal choice once again opened him up to ridicule and criticism (how dare he, the parent, make a decision about what he deemed best for his children?) , it also served to let the three grow into, by all accounts, very educated, poised, and polite children. Sure, their lives were probably not what many would consider mainstream, but Michael somehow managed to keep them safe from prying eyes, while allowing them to enjoy their childhood. If you think about it, the mask and veil idea was really genius: Prince, Paris, and Blanket were free to mingle with their cousins and friends as long as they were not with their famous father, since no one knew what they looked like. All this changed with the passing of Michael. Suddenly, his death propelled his children to another level of celebrity.
What was most offensive and disturbing about the whole issue of the youtube clips was the lack of a discussion about this invasion of privacy and instead a focus on pointing out how amazing and “nice” it was so see that Michael’s children behave like children. Christina Everett from NY Daily News wrote: “ It remains unknown how the leaked video clips made their way to the Internet, however it is a comforting sight to see that Jackson's children are acting like, well, children.”
ABC News likewise pointed out that Blanket played “normal games that normal kids play.”
Some outlets, like the BBC stuck to the main facts, and in later days, others also discussed the family’s outrage since it seemed that the children’s youtube accounts had been hacked. Overall, I think it is a pretty sad statement when the media tells us that a father’s protective measures were odd or strange, while overlooking the real issue of the privacy of three children who have lost the only stable person in their lives.
My question is this: Is it really all that surprising to discover these children are behaving like “normal” children? My answer: Actually, it is. However, the reason is not because the upbringing the enjoyed until June 25, 2009 was so strange or weird, but that their lives since then have been anything but normal. Their resilience is a testament to the strong foundation laid by their father, and it would be nice to see that fact addressed every now and then.

And here we go again...

The last couple of weeks have been interesting if you, like me, like to receive Google or Yahoo alerts, keeping you abreast of all news related to anything Michael Jackson. Sadly, what made the stories noteworthy was not so much what was printed and reported, but what was missing. When I say “interesting,” I by no means mean surprising. It is more of the same disturbing and at times infuriating reporting about Michael.
On April 29, 2010, during her True Crime series, Aphrodite Jones aired her reports about Michael’s 2005 Child Molestation case. As she has done previously in her book, the Michael Jackson Conspiracy, she outlined the reasons Michael was found innocent. She also briefly discussed the 1993 allegations and the infamous settlement.
Sadly, the report, the show, and her findings, once again got all but buried, garnering very little media attention. On her own site (http://www.aphroditejones.com/) Miss Jones only shows a short report from Daily News and one segment plugging her report on Larry King. Charles Thomson (http://charlesthomsonjournalist.blogspot.com/) addressed her upcoming report in his blog and revealed further background information about the ’93 allegations, as he had in the past. I challenge you to google the program in your down time and find any main media reports discussing Miss Jones, her documentary, or findings that show Michael in a positive light. An article on NY Daily News by David Hinckley discussed Ms Jones report, but makes it clear, the program should be considered more of a “love letter” than a serious account (http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv/2010/04/29/2010-04-29_aphrodite_jones_defends_michael_jackson_and_blames_king_of_pop_foes_for_his_deat.html).

As coincidence would have it (yeah, I am not buying that one, either…), the same day, EXTRA managed to broadcast its segment about Jason Pfeiffer, a- let me try to be kind here- portly man, who claims to be an ex dermatology (first clue) assistant and CEO of a medical company (I really want to do some research into this one- sounds interesting), telling us (once again- this is not his first attempt to sell this story..oops, did I say ‘sell’????) that he was Michael Jackson’s secret lover. His story is backed up by our ever present, favorite ‘friend’ of Michael’s: the highly credible Dr. Arnold Klein (second clue-if you read nothing else, alarm bells should be going off at this point). Yes, the Arnold Klein, who was on every show imaginable (and some quite unimaginable) discussing his friendship with Michael. Oh, by the way, he also claimed to have fathered Michael’s children (how many men have by now claimed to have donated sperm?), he wanted to sue the estate to reclaim a jacket he supposedly lent Michael (as what- a tent?), and he tried to sell a car on eBay that he managed to tie Michael’s name to as well. And those are only the minor things I can come up with that make the dear Doc suspect as a credible source.
I won’t go into details of why I believe the claims to be totally ridiculous. And none of my reasons would have anything to do with homophobia, as implied by Extra reporter Alicia Jacobs on her facebook site and her tweets she fired off after being barraged by negative comments. The fact of the matter is I have a problem with ANY “secret lover” revelation that is used for commercial gain after Michael passed. Several come to mind, but that will be another entry. Mr. Pfeiffer, like those other “secret” lovers, wives, etc, etc., had a chance to tell his story- when Michael was alive. Of course, he being alive might also have meant he could or would react. How convenient that all those secret lovers and wives as well as self proclaimed friends and spiritual advisors did not feel the need to discuss all those lovely (and fictitious) memories when the man himself could have spoken up.
So, back to the interesting –but not horribly surprising- part of all this: While Miss Jones’ report went unnoticed, the Extra report has been all over the place- both nationally and internationally. This is very similar to Gene Simmons’ derogative comments spreading like wild fire, while Jennifer Batten’s reports went dead the moment they hit the internet. And mind you- Miss Batten actually worked with Michael for YEARS, so it stood to reason that she might know what she was talking about. But no, that was not news worthy.
I found one interesting article, asking the question “Was the Media complicit in Destroying him (Michael)” on http://www.sawfnews.com/Gossip/63678.aspx. Please read the letter sent by a former non-Michael Jackson fan, who did her research and came up with her own conclusions.
I think the answer is a resounding YES. The media has and continues to report only negative and derogatory news about Michael Jackson. There are some noteworthy exceptions, Charles Thomson and Aphrodite Jones being some of the major voices out there, but after a year of hyping Michael’s name and attaching it to anything and everything to make money, the trend has not changed. And with Dr.Murray’s trial dates as well as the first anniversary of Michael’s passing approaching, I fear the truth about Michael will continue to be buried under the caricature.
Unless we, as fans and consumers continue to speak up.
Never underestimate the power of one- especially when many individuals join together. And while the continued trend of sensationalism is disheartening at times, we need to keep hope for change- and with it, Michael- alive.

Murray's lawyer Chernoff on Good Morning America April 5, 2010

Conrad Murray's lawyer (I have long since stopped calling him "Dr."), Ed Chernoff made an appearance on Good Morning America this morning to discuss the case. Chernoff offered little of substance and, instead, relied on innuendo and supposition to cast doubt on the guilt of his client while simultanously placing blame upon the victim--a victim who is not here to defend himself and cannot tell his side (the truth) of what happened.

Chernoff said the LAPD botched the investigation and seeded the theory Michael self-injected the fatal dose of propofol. Chernoff admitted the trial has his client on the ropes and asserted they will fight to the death because it is now Murray against Michael, and Murray would do whatever he had to do to get out of this, including exposing Michael. He said he "didn't know what Michael was doing....Dr. Murray has no desire to portray Michael Jackson as anything as other than a saint...but..the facts have to come out..." which I take to mean, they will smear Michael to poison the public and to taint the jury pool as long as it might save Murray's hide. I find this entire defense approach sleazy and despicable.

Conrad Murray's medical license not yet revoked, new judge assigned

Conrad Murray appeared today in a Los Angeles courtroom in connection with the investigation into Michael Jackson's death at his hands. The purpose of today's hearing was for the prosecution to ask a judge to revoke Conrad Murray's California medical license. The judge assigned to the case, Peter Espinoza, revealed he had a connection to the prosecution then assigned the case to Judge Michael Pastor and sent everyone to his court room. Judge Pastor will have the task of setting a date for the preliminary hearing and deciding whether or not to revoke Murray's license.

Jay-Z On The Record about Off The Wall

Jay-Z goes On the Record about Michael Jackson's Off The Wall.

Janet Jackson on "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon" March 23, 2010

Janet Jackson made an appearance last night on "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon" to promote her new movie Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married, Too? Janet was shy and well-spoken and she looked great! It is good to see her out in the spotlight again. I thought the bit where she thanked ?uestlove for the Jackson 5 tee-shirt was too cute!

Murray loses license

The California Attorney General Jerry Brown has succeeded in his request to have the court suspend Conrad Murray's medical license in his state. The AG's office filed a motion on behalf of the California Medical Board on February 8th calling Murray's conduct during and after Michael's death, "reprehensible" "so egregious as to shock the conscious." The motion also stated that Murray "took the life of his patient" and "showed utter disregard for the care and well-being of his patient" and that his actions "make him a danger to the public." This is what Michael's fans and Murray's medical colleagues have maintained all along. Virtually every doctor and nurse anesthetist practicing in the U.S. today knows that the standard of care was not met in this case; they want to distance themselves from his apparent negligence.

For his part, Murray's attorney, Ed Chernoff, entered a plea of not guilty and denies any wrongdoing on behalf of his client. Chernoff told the AP the filed motion was unnecessary and could have a significant negative impact on Murray's abilityto practice medicine and earn a living. Well good then!

Edit: Apparently, his license was not suspended. This is unfortunate, as I believe he did not deliver the standard of care and refuses to admit his wrongdoing in Michael's death.

Some interesting theories on Michael Jackson's death

Michael Jackson MTV VMAs Japan 05/27/2006

I get emotional watching him get emotional.

Let Little Michael keep you company today

Janet Jackson appeared last night on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno 03/18/10

She looked and sounded fabulous. It warms my heart to see her smile!

Orianthi performed last night on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno

I am so glad to see Orianthi get the recognition she deserves. Michael saw her talent; now the world has a chance. It was wonderful to have both Janet and Orianthi on the same night.

Michael's Mercedes auctioned of for almost $105,000

A Gatlinburg, Tennessee man was the winner of a huge auction with Julien's featuring the King of Pop Michael Jackson on Saturday in New York. The owner of Hollywood Star Cars Museum, Charlie Moore, bought Michael's 1985 Mercedes Benz SEL and a photograph of Michael driving his car for US$104550.00. Its S class engineering features a powerful, fuel injected 5-litre, 303 cubic inch V-8 engine with 302hp and 4-speed automatic transmission. Michael originally bought the car for his use at his Neverland Estate, but later gifted to his aunt. The Benz will go on display in the museum, which also features more than 40 celebrity cars including Elvis Presley's Lincoln Continental and a Jaguar once owned by Frank Sinatra.

Joe Jackson says Michael consulted Elvis Presley's doctor

The UK paper, the Daily Star, is reporting Michael Jackson's father, Joe Jackson, has made statements that he believes Michael consulted with Elvis Presley's doctor, "Dr. Nick", and that the doctor should be investigated in regards to his son's untimely death:

"We have heard that Michael even tried to get drugs from Elvis' doctor - some guy called Dr Nick. There's a whole bunch of other people that need to be questioned too.

"Michael was not well. We tried to help him but we couldn't get to him. People stopped us from getting to him. There were more people involved than Murray. Murray is just the fall guy.

"I will not stop until I get justice for my son. Justice means a murder charge for everyone involved. All I am after is just justice, that sort of a thing."

source

Those penguins are so darn cute!

The Oscars honored Michael Jackson

The Academy of Motion Pictures just honored Michael during the memoriam segment on the Oscars! I was in tears! I wasn't expecting that at all!!!!! Michael appears at 2:44; they show pictures from Thriller, the Wiz, and the Panther Dance.

Questions about the stun gun incident

ermaine's son Jafaar ordered one or more stun guns on the internet and had them delivered to the Hayvenhurst compound. According to staff at Hayvenhurst, security intercepted them before the kids ever saw them. This contrasts with media reports yesterday saying first Jafaar (or Jermajesty) used the gun on Blanket. Later reports say one of Jermaine's sons tested out the gun on a piece of paper. (Wouldn't that cause a fire?) Now, Katherine's attorney is confirming Social Services has paid several visits to the home and that none of the children were harmed or ever were in danger from the weapon.

My questions are:

1. Why is Jafaar allowed on the internet when Prince, roughly the same age, is not?

2. Why is he allowed on the internet unsupervised?

3. How was he able to place an order? Whose credit card did he use?

4. If security intercepted the weapon 3 weeks ago, why is it just blowing up now?

5. What was he intending to do with the weapon? Does he have something against Michael's children? Is he continuing the jealousy to the next generation?

6. Why is Jafaar living at Hayvenhurst and not with his father and step mother? Perhaps Jermaine really is still living there and not in that mansion they showed on the reality show.

7. If only staff knew about the weapon, who leaked the story to social services and why?

8. Why would they tell unless someone was actually hurt?

9. Is Grace his nanny, too? Have any staff been fired over this? Someone probably should be.

10. Is Debbie going to try to use this as leverage for either custody or more money?

There are so many questions and so few answers here. Rest assured, the media will pick the bones dry on this story. On a side note, he is one handsome kid! Unfortunately, no one seems to know how to spell his name: Jafar, Jaffar, Jaafar, Jafaar, media outlets are even confusing him with Jermajesty (as I did in an earlier report.)

Wesley Snipes is trying to redeem himself

He gets the side eye from me for a lot of what he has said and done, but Wesley Snipes really brought a tear to my eye with a recent interview he gave to Collider. He discussed his feelings about working with Michael Jackson on the "Bad" short film and how he felt the world treated him:

I am...critical about how Michael was treated, more than anything else. I think that he was an angel sent to us, and I think that we might have to reflect on how well we took care of him. People like to say, “Oh, people around him were bad and they didn’t do right by him.” But I think this is collective too. Because I don’t know the last time, and I can’t remember any other artist that attracted that much energy and projected that much power. That was that creative, and affected so many people, and was such a diplomat for America, and a champion for American culture, and African-American people worldwide. People wanted to move to America because of Michael Jackson. Industry changed, the music industry changed, because of Michael Jackson. That’s a gift to us, and, you know, I am concerned that the Good Lord may not send another one because we did not take good care of him (Michael Jackson).

Read the entire interview here.

Did Jaafar shock Blanket?

Conflicting media reports have Jermaine Jackson's 13-year-old son ordering a stun gun from the internet, having it delivered to the Hayvenhurst compound, and using it on Michael Jackson's youngest son, Blanket. Attorneys for the family say Jaafar used the weapon on a piece of paper and that Michael's sons never came anywhere near it; the attorneys say Prince was the only other one to see the weapon when police confiscated it. Social Services reportedly paid a visit to the home late Monday night to investigate. Unconfirmed reports say Prince, Paris, and Blanket might possibly be removed from the home and grandmother Katherine Jackson's care pending further investigation.

While I think it was incredibly foolish for Jermajesty to have ordered a dangerous weapon online and I wonder where he obtained the credit card information to do so, I am not certain removing Michael's children would be the best thing. Perhaps a better solution would be for Jermaine to take custody of and raise his own children with his current wife; I wonder why that has not occurred to them before...

28 years ago today...

26 years ago today, Michael Jackson won a record-breaking eight Grammy Awards for his Thriller album, including 'Album of the Year'. R.I.P. Michael.

Joe Jackson granted access to medical records

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Mitchell Beckloff ruled that Joe Jackson can receive his son, Michael Jackson’s, medical records from the UCLA Medical Center. Joe Jackson's attorney, Brian Oxman, sought the records as part of an effort to obtain a $15,000 montly stipend for Joe from Michael's estate; Michael provided for his three children and his mother, but excluded his his father from his will. The judge will review the records first before releasing them to Oxman. Beckloff also ruled Jackson can only review records generated on or after the date of Michael's death so as to not violate doctor-patient confidentiality. Anyone granted review of the medical records will be required to sign a confidentiality agreement. Jackson and Oxman stated they are also considering filing a wrongful death lawsuit in Michael's death.

Maureen McCormick remembers Michael Jackson

TV's Marcia Brady recalls a phone call she received from Michael after he was accused of molestation in 1993.

Michael Jackson on ice: ice skating tributes

In the spirit of the Winter Olympics, I present to you:

13-year-old Darian Weiss. He performed an ice skating routine to Michael Jackson's "The Way You Make Me Feel" in 2005. His mother worked for Michael and the Jackson family in the past.

Татьяна Навка и Роман Костомаров, 2007 год, гала-шоу на Ходынском поле
Tatiana Navka & Roman Kostomarov skate to "Smooth Criminal" in 2007. Here it is with different costumes.



The same pair have a routine to "In The Closet."





Evgeni Plushenko skated to a Michael Jackson Medley in the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics in 2002.

Michael Jackson Macros Video 2

The language is a bit colorful, but this macros video almost made me lose my job it's so funny! Thanks to Annie_ok for the heads up.

Obama Thriller Parody

I was literally on the floor laughing at this video parody involving two of my favorite people, Michael Jackson and Barack Obama. That tight shiny Thriller suit...I just can't!

Priscilla Presley spoke about Michael Jackson on Larry King Live

Priscilla Presley, mother of Michael Jackson's first ex-wife, Lisa Marie Presley, made an appearance on Larry King Live last night. King asked her if Michael's death hit her particularly hard. Instead of speaking about how it affected her, she deflected the issue onto Lisa, saying:

KING: Did the Michael Jackson--that whole thing hit you hard?

PRESLEY: I know it hit Lisa very hard.

KING: It did?

PRESLEY: It did. It hit her very hard.

KING: They remained friends?

PRESLEY: Yes, they did. They remained friends.

It is interesting to note she claims they remained friends; according to Lisa Marie's own blog post after Michael's passing, they had not seen or spoken to one another in years. Insiders say Michael broke contact with her for good following a scathing appearance by Priscilla and Lisa Marie on Oprah and numerous other unflattering interviews given by Lisa in the years after their breakup.

Press Release for Australian tribute to Michael Jackson

AUSTRALIA SALUTES MICHAEL JACKSON - http://mjtribute.com.au/

On Saturday 17th April 2010 at the Gold Coast Arts Centre we will be holding a spectacular production; Australia Salutes Michael Jackson - A Tribute to the King of Pop!

The show will cover Michael Jackson's entire career, taking inspiration and music from The Jackson 5 days right up to his planned This Is It concerts, featuring a visually spectacular lighting display, digitally projected stage sets, gravity defying dance routines, video flashbacks and much more.

Tickets have been categorized to include adult, pensioner, student and child prices; plus discounted package deals for families and groups!

A portion of the funds raised through ticket and merchandise sales will be donated to local charities including the Make A Wish Foundation.

Follow this link: http://www.gcac.com.au/show-details.php?g_ShowID=348 to book online, or call the Box Office on (07) 5588 4000.

We hope to see you all there!

(wasn't sure if I post this here or in Australia section so i did both???)

TICKET INFO:
----------------
General Admission: $34.90
Pensioners: $29 .90
Kids and Students: $24.90
Family tickets: $23.75 each (Total $95 gets you 2x adults and 2x kids)
Group Booking (10 tix or more): $22.90 each (order by PHONE only (07) 5588 4000)

For enquiries:
Phone: (07) 5588 4000
Email: mjtribute@live.com.au
Website: http://mjtribute.com.au/

Tickets also available at the GOLD COAST ARTS CENTRE BOX OFFICE - 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise.

Minister Louis Farrakhan says Michael asked for help 7 days before he was killed

This is part of a long series called Michael Jackson Crucifixion posted on behalf of supporters of Minister Louis Farrakhan and the Nation of Islam. I will be posting the complete series soon so you can make up your own mind about the NOI's role in Michael's later years and the various cries of conspiracy theories from numerous corners. In this part, Farrakhan says one of Michael's attorneys contacted him seven days before he was killed asking for help on Michael's behalf:

At 6:27 :
"But I got a call, I think 7 days before he passed away. It was from a lawyer, who's name I won't call, who said: Farrakhan, please get in touch with Michael, he is in serious trouble.
I said: what do you mean?
He said: Michael agreed to to do 10 concerts, now they've booked him for 50 and we're afraid that he won't be able to fulfil the obligation and he will be sued and this will be a way for them to take his legacy, the catalog that he owns.
I said: and what do you want me to do? He hasn't called me.
He said: but there are people close to him, that re follow us.
I said: really?
He said: Yes.
I said: well give me a few days, let me think about it. "

BAD subway station to house tribute to Michael Jackson

The Downtown Brooklyn Partnership has brokered an agreement to immortalize the subway station where Michael Jackson filmed his 1987 short film BAD. The Scorsese-directed story takes place in the Hoyt-Schermerhorn stop of the G-train. The Partnership plans to have an artist-created mural adorn the side of an office building belonging to real estate company Beneson Capital.

"We see this as a great opportunity to potentially establish Hoyt-Schermerhorn’s role in American pop culture and as a tourist destination to attract people to a part of Downtown Brooklyn already rapidly growing," Joe Chan, president of the partnership told The Post.

The planned tribute comes on the heels of a previously-rejected memorial to the King of Pop. Last fall, the MTA rejected City Council member Letitia James’ suggestion to erect a plaque and to rename the station after Michael Jackson.

source

"We Are The World 25 for Haiti" full video

While it has been reported big stars like Beyonce, Jay-Z, Lady Ga Ga, and Prince either turned their noses up at the project or failed to show for the recording session, it was fantastic to see such huge stars as Tony Bennett, Gladys Knight, Carlos Santana, Celine Dion, Mary J. Blige, and Barbara Streisand take the time out of their busy schedules to participate. Michael Jackson, co-writer of the original song, appears twice in the video at 2:22, singing alongside his sister Janet, and again at 3:41 looking like the King that he is.

Please donate to the Haiti relief efforts by downloading this video and song from iTunes and going to world25.org

Mike, I'mma let you finish...

Samsung releases limited edition golden This Is It harddrive

Electronics giant Samsung has announced plans to release a limited edition golden external harddrive that comes pre-loaded with Michael Jackson's This Is It film. The portable S2 drive depicts Jackson in his signature This Is It silhouette with upstretched arms and crossed legs. With features such as automatic backup, data encryption, and password-protected data access, the 500GB hard drive is the ultimate gift for die hard MJ techie fans. Samsung says the drive will retail for around €109 Euros or $149 USD.

source

Joe Jackson wants to sue over deceased photos

Lawyers for Michael Jackson's father, Joe Jackson, have filed papers seeking the court's acknowledgment that Michael's family has the right to sue media outlets for publishing photos of Mr. Jackson's deceased body. Attorney Brian Oxman filed papers claiming there is a legal precedent for a family to sue for invasion of privacy when such photographs are taken or published. Shows such as Entertainment Tonight (ET) and others have repeatedly aired photographs of Mr. Jackson's body on a stretcher as it was taken into an ambulance.

source

Michael Bearden and George Lopez spoke about Michael Jackson

The musical director for Michael Jackson's This Is It is now the band leader for George Lopez's Lopez Tonight show. They sat down a few months ago to discuss Michael Jackson and the rehearsals for the This Is It concerts. I was tickled by his anecdote about the rehearsals for Dirty Diana. Michael planned to have an aerialist and master pole dancer dance around a larger-than-life iron canopy bed on the stage, eventually handcuffing him to the bed. At one point, Michael Bearden asked Michael where the female guitarist Orianthi was supposed to be during the number. Michael said, 'In the bed with me!--I can handle it!'

Who's bad?

FAMU's Marching 100 performed a rousing tribute to Michael Jackson at Superbowl XLIV

Rehearsal footage shot at Palm Beach Lakes High School in West Palm Beach, Florida February 6, 2010

The world famous Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University Marching 100 marching band from Tallahassee, Florida performed a tribute to Michael Jackson during the Superbowl XLIV pre-game show on Sunday, February 7, 2010. Unfortunately, the networks chose to show commentary and commercials rather than the incredible tribute. The set list included "Billie Jean", "Beat It", and "Smooth Criminal" and brought the crowd to its feet.

"Today's show was simply fantastic," FAMU's Director of Bands Julian White said. "They played well. They marched well. And the audience just gave a standing ovation. (Band members) gave all they had, and it came through very well."

Source

BREAKING NEWS:

CNN, ABC, and MSNBC are all reporting the Jackson family has arrived at the LA County courthouse. They are all awaiting the arrival of Conrad Murray to surrender himself within the next hour. He will be charged with one count of involuntary manslaughter, according to prosecutors. Prosecutors have filed a criminal complaint that reads that Murray "did unlawfully, and without malice, kill Michael Joseph Jackson."

By charging him with involuntary manslaughter, the prosecutors allege that Murray caused Jackson's death by acting "without due caution and circumspection" rather than with malice. The LA County Coroner ruled Michael Jackson died from a combination of benzodiazepines and propofol. Murray admits he administered a cocktail of benzodiazepines, including lorazepam and propofol but maintains he did not give Jackson "anything that should have killed him."

CNN showed one shot of fans protesting and holding signs outside the courhouse. I saw Mrs. Katherine, Joseph, Randy, Tito, Jermaine, and his wife as well as other family members. Jermaine was the only one to offer a comment, saying simply "not enough".

Dateline NBC: The Secret Life of Michael Jackson

The Dateline piece "The Secret Life of Michael Jackson" broadcast on Friday, February 5, 2010, was very slanted. The producers wanted to accomplish three things with that "special":

1. They wanted to characterize Murray as a villain and establish him as a news draw all on his own so they can continue to flog Michael's death for ratings
2. They wanted to continue their tradition of painting Michael as an eccentric freak and titillate the audience with old rumors and innuendo
3. Of course, they simply wanted to boost their sagging ratings by hopping on the biggest story of the week with a slap dash last minute "report" that contained no new information despite the tease in all their commercials

The broadcast itself focused too much on Michael's vacations, his wardrobe, his makeup, and the allegations against him made in other decades and not nearly enough on the events leading up to Michael's death and the nature of the investigation since then. In order to increase the juice factor, the producers used tabloid tactics by distilling the most inflammatory remarks from the media commentators they interviewed, comments that where wholly unsubstantiated. The only poignant and truthful remarks I watched came from Michael's attorney Thomas Mesereau, Michael Flatley, and the member of the Bahrain Royal Family who said he never MJ never saw use drugs while he was there. I believe comments by so-called friends about Michael being a pest who overstayed his welcome and slept on people's couches only served to further slake the public's thirst for negative ammunition to use against his memory; I personally let such friends know what I thought about their comments as well as Dateline NBC. I believe we, as fans, have an obligation stand up to unfair and untruthful reporting about Michael; it is our duty to protect his legacy.

To read the transcript of the show click here.

Fans Protest Delays in the Conrad Murray Case

Michael Jackson fans from around the world will hold demonstrations outside the L.A. County Courthouse and the L.A.P.D. headquarters in protest of the delay in arresting Dr. Conrad Murray. The investigation into Michael's death is complete and Murray's camp said he is prepared to surrender, so there is a great deal of speculation about the delay in his arrest and arraignment. I post this picture, courtesy of one of my Facebook friends, in solidarity with fans who simply want justice for Michael.

Celine Dion, Jordin Sparks, and Akon discuss We Are The World and Michael Jackson

Celine Dion, Jordin Sparks, and Akon discussed the recording of the "We Are The World" re-make and the song's co-writer, Michael Jackson. The original "We Are The World" was released 25 years ago; it generated over $30 Million in 1980's U.S. dollars to help impoverished people in Africa.

This Is It choreographer Travis Payne dances with the "Dancing Inmates"

Long-time choreography consultant to Michael Jackson, Travis Payne, visited the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC), a maximum security prison in the Philippines, to visit the world famous "Dancing Inmates." The inmates first gained the world's attention with their rendition of Michael's Thriller performed in bright orange jumpsuits with a male Ola Ray in drag. Payne and This Is It dancers Daniel Celebre and Dres Reid spent several days teaching the inmates routines from the blockbuster music film.

I think it is wonderful someone from Michael's camp finally recognized the accomplishments of these men and their love of Michael. It warms my heart to see just how far-reaching Michael's appeal spanned.

Spike Lee wrote a letter to Michael

Legendary filmmaker Spike Lee, directed two controversial videos for Michael Jackson as well as the eulogy on film to accompany the posthumous single "This Is It". Jackson and Lee collaborated on both videos for "They Don't Care About Us. The first version was filmed in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro and Salvador da Bahia, Brazil and featured local residents and the cultural music group Olodum. It showcased the both the crushing poverty and resilient spirit of the area. The second video depicted Jackson as a prisoner in a prison filled with discontent inmates. Scenes of Jackson handcuffed and protesting in the mess hall were interspersed with images of police brutality, genocide, execution, and bigotry. This duo of videos remains among Jackson's most powerful in his catalogue.

Lee continued his support of Jackson by staging a community-wide birthday party in honor of Michael in Brooklyn last August 2009. At the beginning of this year, Lee released a touching music video ode to Michael to accompany the single "This Is It." The video featured scenes from Michael's life and his hometown of Gary, Indiana. Now, Lee has penned a letter to his friend for the luxurious coffee table book, Opus: Michael Jackson. The Opus is a massive 26 lb. book containing photos, drawings, letters, and more celebrating Michael. He had considerable input into the work and it is the last official book to gain his approval before his passing.

Read the text of Spike Lee's touching personal letter to Michael below:

October 10, 2009

Dearest Michael,

Last week I made a pilgrimage to your birthplace, Gary, Indiana. I stood
inside your family’s modest three-bedroom home on 2300 Jackson Street. I felt
the magic. It started there, nine kids plus your parents, jam packed, livin’ on
top of each other pursuing The American Dream. For this alone 2300 Jackson
should be declared a National Landmark. One has to go back to the beginning to
clearly see the entire journey. Gary, Steel town, Midwest, blue collar, hard
workin’, hard livin’, great work ethic and simple basic values. It’s there early
where you learned ‘you had to sing and dance like your life depended on it’
which it did. You and your family made the dream a reality. But as we all
finally learn (sooner or later) dreams have costs and costs have consequences. I
truly cherish the short time we worked together, visiting my home in Brooklyn,
huggin’ and kissin’ my newborn daughter Satchel, as if she was your own
daughter, our fantastic journey to Brazil to shoot the video for ‘THEY DON’T
CARE ABOUT US.’ I regret never getting to inform you that our video was directly
responsible for the great film CITY OF GOD being conceived and made. Michael,
your life touched people the world over you will never know. Michael, I’m one
year older than you, we grew up together. I had my Afro just like you. I wanted
to be like you. Wanted the cute girls to fawn over me the way they did you (the
girls were not going for it. They’d rather make goo-goo eyes at your pictures
plastered all over their bedroom.) At that young age I had no notion of what I
wanted to do in my life. You made me see the possibilities even though I could
not sing or dance a lick despite coming from a musical family. You, Jermaine,
Tito, Jackie and Marlon showed us the way. You guys were young Black boys like
us. Upon us was a new day, a new world and it’s on us to make the most of it. In
closing Michael, you checked out of here way, way too soon but while you walked
this earth in your physical form you changed it. You changed the World, changed
the Game forever.

May you rest eternally in Peace.

Love,
Spike Lee

P.S. Brooklyn luvs ya!

Tennessee House Passes Michael Measure

The Tennessee House of Representatives narrowly passed a measure to honor Michael Jackson on Wednesday, February 3, 2010. The resolution, sponsored by Democratic Rep. G. A. Hardaway of Memphis, squeaked by Wednesday on a vote of 51-22 with 16 lawmakers present and abstaining. Measures need at least 50 votes to pass the 99-member chamber.

The measure has drawn considerable heat amongst the conservative constituency of the Southern state. This general disdain is echoed by the lawmakers who opposed the measure. Democratic Rep. Henry Fincher of Cookeville said he voted against it because Jackson was "credibly accused of child molestation." House Republican Caucus Chairman Glen Casada said he objected to money being spent to honor entertainer, however he tendered an "aye" vote. Nevertheless, the state Congress regularly considers such measures; two years ago a measure to honor Tennessee native Justin Timberlake failed to pass.

If you would like to read the full text of the bill, click here.

Here is how the vote split:

HJR0773 by Hardaway - FLOOR VOTE: MOTION TO ADOPT 2/3/2010 Passed Ayes...............................................51

Noes...............................................22

Present and not voting......................16

Representatives voting aye were: Armstrong, Bone, Borchert, Brown, Camper, Casada, Coleman, Cooper, DeBerry L, Eldridge, Favors, Ferguson, Fitzhugh, Gilmore, Hackworth, Hardaway, Harmon, Harrison, Johnson P, Jones S, Jones U, Kernell, Litz, Lynn, Maddox, Marsh, Matheny, McCord, McCormick, McDaniel, Miller, Montgomery, Moore, Mumpower, Naifeh, Odom, Pitts, Pruitt, Richardson, Sargent, Shaw, Shepard, Sontany, Swafford, Tidwell, Tindell, Towns, Turner J, Turner M, West, Yokley -- 51.

Representatives voting no were: Bell, Carr, Cobb J, Dunn, Faulkner, Fincher, Floyd, Ford, Haynes, Hensley, Johnson C, Lollar, Lundberg, Matlock, McDonald, McManus, Niceley, Roach, Rowland, Shipley, Stewart, Weaver -- 22.

Representatives present and not voting were: Barker, Bass, Brooks H, Campfield, Coley, Dennis, Evans, Fraley, Harwell, Maggart, Ramsey, Rich, Todd, Watson, White, Mr. Speaker Williams -- 16.

We ask that you take the time to call or e-mail at least five legislators from this list who voted yes and five who voted against the bill. Contact information on all the congresspersons can be found here on the House Member Website. Please make sure you include Rep. Fincher in all your communications. He needs to know his statements are not only incorrect, they are unacceptable.

Cut and paste:

AYE (YES) VOTES: rep.joe.armstrong@capitol.tn.gov, rep.stratton.bone@capitol.tn.gov, rep.willie.borchert@capitol.tn.gov, rep.tommie.brown@capitol.tn.gov, rep.karen.camper@capitol.tn.gov, rep.glen.casada@capitol.tn.gov, rep.kent.coleman@capitol.tn.gov, rep.barbara.cooper@capitol.tn.gov, rep.lois.deberry@capitol.tn.gov, rep.jimmy.eldridge@capitol.tn.gov, rep.joanne.favors@capitol.tn.gov, rep.dennis.ferguson@capitol.tn.gov, rep.craig.fitzhugh@capitol.tn.gov, rep.brenda.gilmore@capitol.tn.gov, rep.jim.hackworth@capitol.tn.gov, rep.ga.hardaway@capitol.tn.gov, rep.bill.harmon@capitol.tn.gov, rep.mike.harrison@capitol.tn.gov, rep.phillip.johnson@capitol.tn.gov, rep.sherry.jones@capitol.tn.gov, rep.ulysses.jones@capitol.tn.gov, rep.mike.kernell@capitol.tn.gov, rep.john.litz@capitol.tn.gov, rep.susan.lynn@capitol.tn.gov, rep.mark.maddox@capitol.tn.gov, rep.pat.marsh@capitol.tn.gov, rep.judd.matheny@capitol.tn.gov, rep.joe.mccord@capitol.tn.gov, rep.gerald.mccormick@capitol.tn.gov, rep.steve.mcdaniel@capitol.tn.gov, rep.larry.miller@capitol.tn.gov, rep.richard.montgomery@capitol.tn.gov, rep.gary.moore@capitol.tn.gov, rep.jason.mumpower@capitol.tn.gov, spk.eme.jimmy.naifeh@capitol.tn.gov, rep.gary.odom@capitol.tn.gov, rep.joe.pitts@capitol.tn.gov, rep.mary.pruitt@capitol.tn.gov, rep.jeanne.richardson@capitol.tn.gov, mailto:charles.sargent@capitol.tn.gov, rep.johnny.shaw@capitol.tn.gov, rep.david.shepard@capitol.tn.gov, rep.janis.sontany@capitol.tn.gov, rep.eric.swafford@capitol.tn.gov, rep.john.tidwell@capitol.tn.gov, rep.harry.tindell@capitol.tn.gov, rep.joe.towns@capitol.tn.gov, rep.johnnie.turner@capitol.tn.gov, rep.mike.turner@capitol.tn.gov, rep.ben.west@capitol.tn.gov, rep.eddie.yokley@capitol.tn.gov

NAY (NO) Votes: rep.mike.bell@capitol.tn.gov, rep.joe.carr@capitol.tn.gov, rep.jim.cobb@capitol.tn.gov, rep.bill.dunn@capitol.tn.gov, rep.chad.faulkner@capitol.tn.gov, rep.henry.fincher@capitol.tn.gov, rep.richard.floyd@capitol.tn.gov, rep.dale.ford@capitol.tn.gov, rep.ryan.haynes@capitol.tn.gov, rep.joey.hensley@capitol.tn.gov, rep.curtis.johnson@capitol.tn.gov, rep.ron.lollar@capitol.tn.gov, rep.jon.lundberg@capitol.tn.gov, rep.jimmy.matlock@capitol.tn.gov, rep.michael.mcdonald@capitol.tn.gov, rep.steve.mcmanus@capitol.tn.gov, rep.frank.niceley@capitol.tn.gov, rep.dennis.roach@capitol.tn.gov, rep.donna.rowland@capitol.tn.gov, rep.tony.shipley@capitol.tn.gov, rep.mike.stewart@capitol.tn.gov, rep.terri.lynn.weaver@capitol.tn.gov

This Is It #1 in DVD sales

According to Home Media Magazine, Michael Jackson's This Is It rocketed to the number one position on national home video sales charts in its first week of release selling 1.2 million copies in the U.S. alone. This is a record performance for first week sales of a music film. According to Nielsen VideoScan, the film was also the number 1 seller in the Blu Ray format for the week ending January 31, 2010. Fully 21% of sales of This Is It were on the Blu Ray format, which is also a record for a release of any type.

This Is It chronicles the exhaustive rehearsals leading up to what would have been the largest concert tour ever. The documentary provides a glimpse of the creative genius that was Michael Jackson and offers the viewer the opportunity to meet the dancers, musicians, and crew behind the massive production. This Is It earned over a quarter of a billion dollars in its limited theatrical release worldwide.

Source: Reuters

SONY Corp. posts $871 million (USD) Quarterly Profit

The numbers are in: Sony's electronics and entertainment divisions posted a quarterly profit of $871 million USD (79.2 billion yen). That's QUARTERLY. Third quarter profits a year ago were only 10.4 billion yen. Sony attributes the surge in profits to cost-cutting measures and the performance of its consumer electronics division. We here might beg to differ; certainly the performance of the This Is It film coupled with strong sales of MJ's catalogue had a little something to do with it. Michael had a little something to say about Sony. Watch the video.

Centipede 2010

After decades out of the spotlight, Rebbie Jackson will take the stage in Scranton, Pennsylvania on April 24th to pay homage to her beloved brother, Michael. Rebbie will perform with Damon Harris of the Temptations and a surprise guest, possibly one of her famous siblings. The two will sing a duet of "Never Can Say Goodbye" along with a Jackson 5 medley.

Michael Jackson voted best performance at MSG

Michael Jackson's fans voted his 1988 concert the best concert ever at Madison Square Garden with 36.5% of the online vote. His 2001 performance took second place, garnering 30.3% of the vote. It really says something about the power and breadth of his fan base that he was able to earn over two-thirds of all the votes worldwide.

The Grammys 3-D Earth Song Tribute to Michael Jackson

I listen to this song nearly every day, but I still got chills when I heard Michael's portion of the song. I think this was beautifully done. Each singer brought something heartfelt and special to the tribute.

Michael would have been proud of his children

Both Prince and Paris Jackson were clearly nervous. Heck, I would have been terrified to speak in front of all those people in that room and millions more watching around the world. It was very nice of their cousins 3T to come on stage to support them. All of them looked very polished and grown up. Prince and Paris were very articulate and what they said about Michael was touching.

Interestingly, Randy Jackson tweeted other family members were not even invited to the ceremony and followed that up with something cryptic about "the truth". We are presently trying to get to the bottom of that...

Michael's appeal was truly universal...

The mariachi band at Acapulco Mexican Restaurant in Birmingham, Alabama--yes, Alabama!--jams it out to "Beat It" on the regular. *shrugs shoulders*

This Is It has been released, along with my tears

Someone tweeted about sitting next to a man on an airplane flight. The man was watching This Is It and bawling his eyes out. I know how he feels.

I have had an official (meaning non-bootleg, studio quality) copy of the mvie, but I have been eagerly awaiting the release of the discs with the extra footage. I carefully studied the differences between all the exclusive offers at the big box retailers and finally settled on the 2-disc version from WalMart. (I hate to support them, but lately they have been really promoting MJ.) After deliberating in the store for over 30 minutes, I bought the DVDs on Tuesday. I brought the package home...and just looked at it. I busied myself with family duties, laundry, cooking, cleaning, and chatting on line. I kept the boxed set right next to me and occasionally ran my fingers across the packaging, but for some reason I just couldn't bring myself to watch it. The furthest I got on Tuesday night was opening the plastic.

Wednesday came and went without me being able to watch the movie, though I did progress to putting the disc in the DVD player. I have a lot of anxiety about watching the extra footage. I already know I will cry while watching the Man In The Mirror segment as I have the last 20 or so times I have seen it. I always start to tear up when the song begins to play. By the time Michael crosses himself and spreads his arms in that freeze frame I have dissolved into rivers of saline. Given my reaction to the movie itself, I truly fear what will happen if I see any more footage of our beloved Michael literally hours before his passing. I just don't know. So you see, I empathize with that anonymous man on the plane. My soul still aches.

It's a no go for Joe

Michael Jackson's estate administrators John McClain and John Branca are attempting to block a bid by Michael's father Joe for a monthly allowance from his estate. Joseph Jackson seeks $15,000 in monthly support from Michael's estate for "montly maintenance and expenses." Michael left Joseph out of his will and trust entirely; Joe Jackson insists this was an oversight and/or mistake. Branca and McClain say Joseph's request will reduce the amount of money available to support Michael's three children who, along with Michael's mother Katherine, were the sole individual beneficiaries of the estate.

Jermaine says Michael was close to converting to Islam

In his first exclusive interview with an Arab channel, AlArabiya, on Wednesday, January 20, 2010, Jermaine Jackson claimed that his younger brother Michael Jackson was exploring Islam and was close to converting at the time of his death. According to Jermaine, Michael studied a great deal about the religion during his time in Bahrain and hired an all Muslim team upon his return to the States:

“After he got back from Bahrain, Michael hired a team that was all Muslim,” he told Al Arabiya. “His behavior at the time also showed that he was very close to converting...I believe that Islam would have helped him a lot. Had he converted, he would have been spared all the problems he had been subjected to throughout his life.”

The Sun reported Michael coverted to Islam in 2008, but this has been disproven by most credible sources. Jermaine said Michael avidly consumed books he gave him on Islam and told him he was happy Jermaine had found something to give him such strength and inner peace.

Since his passing, conversion reports have surfaced from a number of religious groups. There are Jehovah's Witnesses, including Firpo Carr, who insist Michael was an active Jehovah's Witness at the time of his passing when, in fact, he broke with the group in 1988. Conflicting stories circulate about his acceptance of Christ in the tradition of the Church of Christ under Andrae Crouch, while stories of his conversion to Islam persist. Considering the Mt. Everest of problems Michael faced and the confluence of people who constantly worked to exploit him and bring him down, I hardly think this conversion would have erased all the problems in his life. By all accounts, Michael had strong spiritual faith and a thirst for knowlege of many life philosophies.

Target is giving away 3-D glasses

Starting today (Sunday) Target Stores will be giving away free 3-D glasses for the special Michael Jackson tribute during the Grammy Awards this year. Be sure to pick up your pair so you can enjoy the segment as it was intended for the This Is It shows at London's O2 Arena. This Is It will be released on DVD and Blu Ray this Tuesday, January 26th.

Marsha Ambrosius talks about working with Michael Jackson and his passing

Marsha Ambrosius, formerly of Floetry, discusses Floetry's breakup, her dream come true of working with Michael Jackson, and the aftermath of learning of his passing. She penned "Butterflies" and recorded the demo. Michael heard the demo and called her up. The rest is history. Both Floetry and Michael Jackson recorded the song; both versions are stunningly beautiful.

We Are the World 2010 for Haiti

Quincy Jones and Lionel Ritchie have tapped Grammy Award-winning producer Ken Ehrlich to helm a remake of Michael Jackson's worldwide hit song "We Are the World" to raise funds for Haiti earthquake relief. The original song was released 25 years ago on January 25th to raise funds for relief of famine in Africa under the name USA for Africa. The recording will definitely be missing something without Michael there, but Jones and Ritchie are quietly asking big name stars to devote extra time towards the project over Grammy weekend. The producers have not yet confirmed any of the participants, but they will undoubtedly reach out to the best of the best today and include some of the megastars from the original 1980's release.

This Is It Thriller Segment

Kenny Ortega and others discuss the making of the "Thriller" segment from Michael Jackson's This Is It. The movie will be released on DVD and Blu Ray in the United States on Tuesday.

Deleting Archives

We proudly welcome all readers of PJWN (formerly Planet Jackson Worldwide News). We have begun deleting non Jackson Family related archives from this site. The archives are still active at PJWN's new site, pjwnews.blogspot.com If you would like to read or comment on one of PJWN's archived posts, please visit the new site; all comments on old PJWNews stories that do not cover Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, or the other Jacksons will be deleted when the post is deleted from this site.

Heal The World: Haiti Earthquake

This is an inspirational video about Haiti set to Michael Jackson's "Heal the World." The video was made by Mugsysam. Please continue to give to the Haiti rescue efforts. Workers were still pulling out people alive yesterday, a week after the quake. More money is needed to save the living, to bury the dead, and to rebuild Haiti.

VH1 "World Premiere" of "They Don't Really Care About Us" from This Is It

VH1 TV Shows | Music Videos | Celebrity Photos | News & Gossip

VH1 made a lot of hoopla about its "world premiere" of "They Don't Really Care About Us" from Michael Jackson's This Is It. Fans rushed to turn on their television sets last night at 10pm Eastern...only to see the same exact segment they saw in the theateres. It was the same segment with NO extras. Ah well, for those who have been suffering through withdrawal since the movie left the theater, (Planet has had access to a copy of the movie all along and it's not one of those poor quality pirated copies either) this was a welcome appetizer for the main course that will be released next Tuesday. Play it over and over to your heart's content.

The Jacksons go on lockdown

I don't have the latest episode of the Jackson's: A Family Dynasty loaded yet, but here is the Lockdown episode where the brothers try to get serious--with varying results.

Que from Day 26 covers Michael Jackson's "Human Nature"

Michael Jackson's furniture to be auctioned

According to TMZ (not the most reliable source), Michael ordered $700,000 worth of furniture from Italian designer, Colombostile, for his London mansion he was to use during his “This Is It” tour. Since the items were not delivered due to his passing, the company reportedly returned the money to Mrs. Katherine. They have opted instead, to auction off the furniture instead. Everyone is trying to trade on his name. $700,000 is a LOT of furniture! Michael was living large!

Sneak Preview: This Is It Extra Footage

I already have the movie, but I am dropping cash on the 26th to buy the full version of the movie! This looks great!

PETA wants to confiscate Michael Jackson's giraffes

Yes, I'm aware that's a llama in the photo.

"The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has sent a request to Page, Ariz., Police Chief Charlie Dennis to immediately confiscate two surviving giraffes that previously belonged to the late Michael Jackson.The request comes following the news that the other two giraffes acquired from Jackson’s estate died in the past seven weeks.“PETA recently learned that two of the giraffes have died and that the possible cause of death of at least one of the animals was improper feeding and/or exposure to cold temperatures,” a rep from the organization told Pop Tarts. “If this is true, the Hancocks appear to be in violation of state cruelty-to-animals law, and the remaining two giraffes must be removed as soon as possible.”The giraffes have been on city property since 2007 after they were acquired from Neverland Estate by Tom and Freddie Hancock of the Voices of the Wild Foundation, Inc., which operates Banjoko Wildlife Preserve in Page, Ariz. where the animals are kept.In a letter to Dennis, PETA urges the police chief to “thoroughly investigate this situation and if applicable, pursue charges against the Hancocks for the deaths of two giraffes and, most importantly, take immediate action to protect the remaining giraffes by confiscating the animals and relocating them to a facility that can provide them with appropriate care.”

This young Turkish MJ impersonator is pretty good

Check out this Michael Jackson impersonator from Turkey.