06-30-09 EUR ALL ON ONE PAGE
KATHERINE GIVEN GUARDIANSHIP OF MIJAC'S KIDS: Plus, Jackson family matriarch files papers to administer son's estate.
*Katherine Jackson was granted temporary guardianship of Michael Jackson's three children on Monday, and filed additional papers seeking to be named administrator of her late son's estate to ensure that his kids are its beneficiaries.
The mother of the late pop icon filed papers for guardianship on Monday morning and her request was approved for her to look after her grandchildren temporarily, the Associated Press reports. The papers were filed in Los Angeles Supreme Court and a hearing has been set for August 3.
Michael is survived by his three children: Prince Michael Jackson I, 12, Paris Michael Katherine Jackson, 11, and Prince "Blanket" Michael Jackson II, 7.
Mrs. Jackson also asked the Superior Court judge on Monday to name her administrator of Michael's estate so she can ensure that his children are its beneficiaries.
The court filing states that Jackson's parents believe he died without a valid will. The documents further state that Katherine Jackson "intends to marshal assets of the decedent for the exclusive use of the decedent's three children — her grandchildren — after payment of debts and expenses of administration."
The filing lists the children as living at the Jacksons' family compound in Los Angeles' San Fernando Valley. In her request to take over the children's estate, Jackson's mother listed its value as "unknown."
"Minor children are currently residing with paternal grandmother,"
the filing states in an explanation of why Katherine Jackson should be appointed guardian. "They have a long established relationship with paternal grandmother and are comfortable in her care."
The declaration states that Deborah Rowe is the mother of Jackson's two eldest children but lists her whereabouts as "unknown." A family attorney said the Jacksons haven't heard from Rowe since Michael Jackson's death.
Rowe's attorney, Marta Almli, wrote in a statement Saturday that "Ms.
Rowe's only thoughts at this time have been regarding the devastating loss Michael's family has suffered. Ms. Rowe requests that Michael's family, and particularly the children, be spared such harmful, sensationalist speculation and that they be able to say goodbye to their loved one in peace."
For Jackson's youngest child, nicknamed Blanket, Monday's court filing states "None" for the mother. It also states that all three of children "have no relationship with their biological mother."
TYLER PERRY ANGRY WITH MIJAC MEDIA COVERAGE: Plus, director says Janet was en route to film 'Married Too' when she heard about Michael.
*Tyler Perry called Q100’s The Bert Show in Atlanta Friday morning to discuss his thoughts on Michael Jackson’s passing and to urge fans and the media to give the Jackson family "respect and room to grieve.”
The director, who was due to direct Michael's sister Janet in the sequel to his 2007 hit “Why Did I Get Married?” confirmed that Jackson was on her way to Atlanta to begin production on the film Thursday when she got word of her brother’s death and her plane was immediately re-routed to Los Angeles, reports the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. This counters earlier reports that Jackson was in London when she got the news.
“I spoke to her yesterday,” Perry said. “She’s a wonderful, wonderful, wonderful girl. There’s no pretense. She’s a regular, beautiful human being. I just ask that people pray for her and her family.”
Perry went on to criticize media outlets who feel the need to mention Jackson's trial on child molestation charges.
“These are human beings, they’re human beings,” Perry said. “I wouldn’t wish the level of fame he achieved on my worst enemy. I am so disgusted, that, with every great thing that’s being said about him, there’s a million negative things being said. Why can’t it just be about his legacy rather than the tarnished part of what he was acquitted for? It bothers me that this is the focus.”
Added Perry: “Growing up as a kid who was molested, I am never, ever going to be a defender of a molester. But the truth of the matter is, the man was acquitted. And I have seen first-hand what people will do for money.”
Perry added: “I hope that people will just send up a prayer for his family. Even though they’re famous these are regular human beings. If you cut them, they bleed. Having to deal with all this negativity is hard.”
The Atlanta film director and studio owner dismissed co-host Bert Weiss' theory that father Joe Jackson is solely to blame for his son’s complicated life.
“I disagree with you,” said Perry. “I went through a lot of things with my father. Things I did not deserve as a kid. Things that he said to me, did to me. But it didn’t make me become something other than what I am right now. There comes a point in your life, that no matter who you are, you begin to find yourself.”
Read the entire AJC article here:
http://blogs.ajc.com/peachbuzz/2009/06/26/tyler-perry-on-jackson-give-the-fa
mily-room-to-breath/
PAPA JOE AND REV. AL HOLD NEWS CONFERENCE: Both try to explain Joe's CNN interview during BET Awards, among other issues.
*Michael Jackson's funeral is still in the planning stages, but his father said he would not be buried at Neverland Ranch, which had been reported earlier in the day.
At a news conference outside the family home in Encino, Joe Jackson also said the family was carefully considering how to properly celebrate his son's legacy. He also said the family was waiting until they had a definitive word on the cause of his son's death before making any funeral arrangements.
When Jackson died Thursday, he left behind three children: Michael Joseph Jackson Jr., known as Prince Michael, 12; Paris Michael Katherine Jackson, 11; and Prince Michael II, 7. The youngest son was born to a surrogate mother.
At Monday's press conference, both Sharpton and Jackson addressed an interview the latter did with CNN's Don Lemon at the BET Awards on Sunday in which he appeared more interested in promoting his new record label than discussing his deceased son.
Sharpton told reporters Monday that Joe Jackson's intent was to show the world that he is continuing Michael's work in the music industry, while Jackson said he was simply answering questions that were asked of him.
JACKSON FAMILY HAS LOTS OF QUESTIONS: Plus, MiJac's doctor says singer still had a pulse when he found him on the bed unconscious.
*In an interview on the Today show, Jackson family lawyer L. Londell McMillan said his clients are "quite clearly troubled" about the circumstances surrounding Jackson's death, considering he had been healthy enough to rehearse for his upcoming concerts just hours before he died.
Asked whether the family suspected foul play, McMillan said those words were "too strong an indictment."
Edward Chernoff, a lawyer for Michael Jackson's doctor, Dr. Conrad Murray, told the Associated Press Sunday that Jackson still had a faint pulse and a warm body when Murray found him in bed and not breathing Thursday afternoon. Chernoff said Murray was at the pop icon's rented mansion when he discovered Jackson and immediately began administering CPR.
Chernoff said his client never gave or prescribed Jackson the painkillers Demerol or OxyContin, and denied reports suggesting that the doctor gave Michael drugs that contributed to his death.
Los Angeles County coroner's officials said their autopsy found no indication of trauma or foul play. But because of additional tests, an official cause of death could take weeks to determine. Jackson's family has requested a private autopsy.
CHRIHANNA WANTS PROTECTION ORDER REMOVED: Sources close to pair say they think it's 'ridiculous.'
*Sources close to Rihanna and Chris Brown say both parties believe the no-contact clause in his plea deal is pointless, not to mention impractical.
"They think it's unnecessary and ridiculous," the New York Daily News quotes of "a mutual pal" regarding the protection order handed down last week. Brown pled guilty to one count of felony assault in the February attack that left Rihanna battered and bruised.
Brown was also told he must stay at least 50 yards away from Rihanna and keep a distance of 10 yards from her if they attend the same event.
"After [the proceeding], Ri and Chris talked on the phone for almost an hour and really worked at becoming friends. They're solid now," said the mutual friend.
However, their attempt to bury the hatchet does not indicate a willingness to get back together romantically, the friend clarified.
"That's 100% done," says the pal. "They aren't looking to hook back up again. They're both moving on and going their separate ways."
USHER REGRETS ABSENCE FROM BET AWARDS: Network told reporters Friday he was 'on a plane' to join show. So what happened?
*On Friday, BET CEO Debra Lee told reporters that Usher and Justin Timberlake would be last minute additions to Sunday's BET Awards telecast, which was being "overhauled" to honor Michael Jackson in the wake of his passing.
Neither performer made it to the ceremony on Sunday. The reason for Timberlake's no-show remains a mystery, but Usher explained in a statement released Sunday he was overseas and unable to make it to Los Angeles in time.
“It is with regret that I [was] unable to participate in the BET Awards Tribute to Michael Jackson on June 28,” Usher said.
“When the BET Awards producers and organizers reached out to me to participate in the tribute, I was extremely flattered and humbled by the opportunity to pay tribute to the world’s greatest musical icon,” the statement continued. “Unfortunately, I am currently overseas and would not make it back in time to the Awards show.”
Though Usher was not able to celebrate Jackson on Sunday, the singer revealed he has a tribute honoring the late singer in the works.
“I look forward to seeing the show and I plan to work on a tribute to Michael Jackson when I return,” Usher said.
JACKSON SIBLINGS MAY MOUNT MIJAC TRIBUTE TOUR: Columnist Roger Friedman says idea of Janet-led trek with brothers is 'on the table.'
*Entertainment columnist Roger Friedman says a Michael Jackson tribute tour featuring his sister Janet and his brothers is "on the table for consideration" in the wake of his death.
"The proposal is either that the Jacksons fulfill some of Michael's London shows, or do a U.S. tour where they would perform his hits and theirs with him," wrote Friedman in his Hollywood Reporter column, citing unnamed sources.
"Janet would be the star of such a show, substituting for Michael since none of the brothers would be remotely capable of being the lead performer," he wrote.
COOLIO TO ENTER REHAB AFTER GUILTY PLEA: Rapper cops to drug possession and agrees to program in exchange for staying out of jail.
*Coolio will avoid jail time after taking a plea deal Friday on drug charges.
The rapper pleaded guilty in Los Angeles to felony cocaine possession in a deal that requires him to spend 18 months in a drug rehabilitation program. He can request the judge dismiss his case if he successfully completes the course, according to the Associated Press.
The 45-year-old entertainer, born Artis Leon Ivey Jr., was arrested March 6 at Los Angeles International Airport after allegedly grabbing a screener's arm to prevent a search of his luggage.
As part of the plea deal, misdemeanor charges of battery and possession of a smoking device were dismissed. He's due back in court Sept.
28 for a progress report.
NFL BEGINS REVIEW OF BURRESS INCIDENT: Commish Roger Goodell to determine whether he should be suspended.
*NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has started reviewing the Plaxico Burress shooting incident under the league's personal conduct policy. If the wide receiver is found in violation, he could be suspended.
The former New York Giant, who caught the winning pass in the team's Super Bowl victory over the New England Patriots in February 2008, accidentally shot himself in the thigh in late November at a New York City nightclub.
Burress was released by New York in April and has yet to sign with another team. He still faces charges of criminal possession of a weapon and would face up to 3 1/2 years in prison if convicted. His case was recently adjourned until September.
Defense lawyer Benjamin Brafman and prosecutors have yet to agree on a plea deal.
TRACY CHAPMAN TO SPEND SUMMER ON TOUR: Trek begins July 31 in Boston and ends Aug. 21 in San Francisco.
*Tracy Chapman has unveiled an extensive slate of summer concert dates, her first full-scale North American itinerary in over three years, according to her label Elektra.
The tour -- which celebrates the four-time Grammy-winner's 2008 release, "Our Bright Future" -- will hit the road on July 31st at Boston's House of Blues. From there, Chapman will cross the continent, wrapping up with an eagerly awaited show at The Fillmore in her adopted hometown of San Francisco (see below itinerary).
The North American dates will be preceded by a major trek across Europe, with multiple performances set for Ireland, England, France, Denmark, Poland, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Switzerland, and The Netherlands.
Below are dates for Tracy Chapman's North American Tour 2009
JULY
31 Boston, MA House of Blues
AUGUST
1 Northampton, MA Calvin Theatre
3 Philadelphia, PA Keswick Theatre
5 Edmonton, AB Edmonton Folk Music Festival
7 New York, NY Hammerstein Ballroom
8 Washington, DC 9:30 Club
9 Baltimore, MD Ram's Head Live
11 Ann Arbor, MI Michigan Theatre
12 Chicago, IL Park West
14 Milwaukee, WI Pabst Theatre
15 Minneapolis, MN O'Shaughnessy
18 San Diego, CA Humphrey's
19 Los Angeles, CA Wiltern Theatre
21 San Francisco, CA The Fillmore
MADONNA WAS PLOTTING APPERANCE AT MIJAC GIG: Singer's manager tweets about Material Girl's wish for a surprise performance.
*Madonna was apparently interested in joining Michael Jackson on stage for one of his 50 planned concert dates in London, according to her manager Guy Oseary.
There were longtime industry rumors that the two superstars had a falling out years ago after a planned duet for Jackson's 1991 "Dangerous"
album never materialized. But according to Oseary and his Twitter page, the Material Girl was hoping to perform with the King of Pop this summer.
"A month ago Madonna told me she wanted to do a surprise performance at one of Michael Jackson's UK shows," Oseary tweeted.
Madonna and Jackson famously accompanied each other to the 1991 Oscars, with Madonna dressed in full Marilyn Monroe mode. Rumors began circulating that they were a couple, but Madonna killed that story by dating Warren Beatty.
Jackson was pronounced dead at UCLA Medical Center on Thursday.
Madonna released a statement saying, "I can’t stop crying over the sad news.
I have always admired Michael Jackson. The world has lost one of the greats, but his music will live on forever! My heart goes out to his three children and other members of his family. God bless.”
ORGANIZERS OF 'THRILLER' MUSICAL IN 'MOURNING': Nederlander Organization undecided about future of production.
*The theater company that acquired rights to produce a musical based on Michael Jackson's "Thriller" video say they have yet to decide if the planned show will move forward in the wake of his death.
The Nederlander Organization has been fielding questions about how Jackson's passing might affect the production since he was expected to be part of the show's creation.
"We just don't know what's going to happen, and that's all we're saying for now," a spokesperson for the organization told The Los Angeles Times. "Plans for the future are forthcoming, and we may know more in the next week of two. All we're saying for now is that we're mourning the death of Michael Jackson."
The musical, according to the January press release, will be based on the 14-minute "Thriller" video, which was a "horror film spoof in which a young couple are out on a date on a beautiful full moon evening, when suddenly the young man, played by Jackson, turns into a werewolf."
The production will feature songs from both "Thriller" and Jackson's "Off the Wall" albums, the release stated.
USA TODAY OFFERING COMMEMORATIVE MIJAC ITEMS: Glossy publication and tabloid-sized edition honoring Jackson on newsstands now.
*USA Today has published two commemorative products recognizing the life and death of Michael Jackson: a 96-page glossy-format commemorative edition titled "Michael Jackson: King of Pop," and a 40-page tabloid sized special edition titled "Michael 1958-2009." Both are on newsstands now.
"Michael Jackson: King of Pop" ($6.99) is loaded with nearly 100 full-color images. It opens with remembrance of Jackson from USA Today and includes articles on his death and legacy from other newspapers around the country.
The glossy also looks at Jackson's life in the public eye and is full of memories and quotes about the singer from other icons of music, film, and culture. Readers and members of USAToday.com also share the impact his life and music had on them.
"Michael 1958-2009" ($4.95), on newsstands through July 27, provides the most up-to-the-minute reporting by the Life section's reporting staff and music critics, including highlights from the Sunday, June 28, tribute to Michael Jackson from the 2009 BET Awards.
The special tribute special edition looks at why Jackson mattered so much in pop culture and celebrates his impact on the worlds of music, fashion and dance.
USA Today's Life section tracks his musical trajectory from the early days as a member of the Jackson 5 to breakout performances like "Thriller"
and "Billie Jean." The special edition looks at his impact on music videos, from his "moonwalk" dance to elaborate morphing of multi-cultural faces in "Black or White." The special edition also offers a commemorative poster for readers to keep as a tribute to the legacy of Michael Jackson.
Information on how to purchase both publications, back issues of the June 26 edition of USA Today and reprints featuring the Michael Jackson cover can be found at www.michael.usatoday.com.
TV GUIDE HONORING MIJAC WITH TWO SPECIALS: 'Stars Reflect' full of BET Awards red carpet interviews; 'Music Legacy' salutes his videos.
*TV Guide Network will pay homage to Michael Jackson in two television specials airing this week.
“Stars Reflect on the Man in the Mirror,” premiering tonight (June
30) at 8 p.m. ET/PT, will include performance highlights and celebrity interviews from Sunday night’s “BET Awards,” where the stars showed up in full force to honor Michael.
Joe Jackson, Smokey Robinson, Ne-Yo, Alicia Keys, New Edition, Ciara, Sherri Shepherd, Arsenio Hall and Wyclef Jean were interviewed for the program.
The special will also include some of the most memorable tribute highlights from the “BET Awards,” including Janet Jackson’s touching remarks about her brother, Jamie Foxx’s Moonwalk and New Edition’s medley rendition of Jackson 5 hits.
“Michael Jackson: Music Legacy,” premiering on Wednesday, July 1, at
8 p.m. ET/PT, will feature iconic music videos from Michael Jackson’s solo artist career, including “Human Nature,” “Bad,” “The Way You Make Me Feel”
and “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” among others.
Since June 25, TV Guide Network has premiered over 10 hours of tribute coverage dedicated to Michael Jackson, including upcoming specials, live news coverage and other feature programming to celebrate the entertainer’s life and career.
PEPA, CHILLI SCORE VH1 REALITY SHOWS: Cameras will follow rapper and singer as they look for love.
*Pepa will return to VH1 without Salt next year to star in her own reality series, joining other newly-signed subjects of unscripted fare Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas from TLC and The Entertainer from "I Love NY" and "I Love Money."
The as-yet-untitled shows for Pepa and Chilli, due in 2010, will chronicle their quests to find a man.
Pepa's project will follow her hunt for love after living a celibate life for years, while Chilli's show will spotlight her love search aided by Brooklyn relationship expert Tionna Smalls.
VH1 has ordered eight half-hour episodes of each program, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
"The Entertainer," which will feature his parents and his basement bachelor pad, is also due to bow next year.
Additionally, the network has renewed "Celebrity Fit Club" for a seventh season and "Sober House with Dr. Drew" for a second season, reports the Hollywood Reporter.
Recently VH1 also announced new primetime series including Jessica Simpson's "The Price Of Beauty;" a series about the family and career of "American Idol" winner Fantasia Barrino; "The OCD Project," about obsessive-compulsive patients living together; and "The Aspen Project," a docusoap set in one of the wealthiest communities in the world.
ITTY BITTY BITS: Hitsville vigil; Lil Jon's wine; Zoe and Woody?; Harold Ford Jr. in baby mode?
*About 1,200 people gathered at the original home of Motown Records in Detroit Sunday for a candlelight vigil in memory of Michael Jackson. The historic Detroit building, dubbed Hitsville USA, was the launching pad for Jackson's career. Fans have gathered outside Hitsville every day since Jackson's death on Thursday. Organizers said they ran out of candles to give to Jackson fans – which represent all ages and ethnic groups.
*Crunk star Lil Jon won a prize at the Los Angeles International Wine and Spirits Competition and promptly Twittered about it. The rapper-producer, born Jonathan Smith, won a Silver Medal for his 2006 Central Coast Chardonnay – a product of his Little Jonathan Winery launched last year in California. He tweeted: "For all y'all sukkas that were hating on my wine check this out!! We winning awards!!! Get u some."
*Actress Zoe Kravitz, the daughter of Lisa Bonet and Lenny Kravitz, has dismissed rumors of a romance with married actor Woody Harrelson after the pair was spotted having drinks together in New York. Kravitz was photographed at the bar of Manhattan's Jane Hotel last Saturday, where she and a friend joined Harrelson and his pal. Rumors suggested the two stars spent the night together, but a rep for Kravitz has denied the claims. "Zoe went to the Jane Hotel but left at midnight," her flack tells Page Six.
Harrelson married his longtime girlfriend Laura Louie in December.
*Harold Ford Jr. and his wife, fashionista Emily Threlkeld, might be planning on a baby, reports the New York Post's Jennifer Gould Keil. The former Tennessee congressman turned New York banker who's also a regular on MSNBC's "Morning Joe," is putting their co-op at 105 Fifth Ave. up for sale for $1.79 million. The pad has classical features and 11-foot high ceilings but only one bedroom, and Ford's been saying on the show they're ready to have a child.
EUR DVD REVIEW: The Education of Charlie Banks
Ivy League Fight Club Drama Due on DVD
DVD Review by Kam Williams
*When Charlie Banks (Jesse Eisenberg) was growing up in Manhattan, he witnessed a brutal beating doled out by a pal named Mick (Jason Ritter) that left another kid looking like death sucking on a Lifesaver.
Because Charlie hailed from a well-to-do family, while the beefy bully came from a blue-collar background, it was reasonable to expect that they’d never see each other once they went their separate ways upon graduating from high school.
After all, Charlie was headed out of town to Brown University to enjoy the all the privileges afforded by that exclusive enclave. The reticent freshman was making his adjustment to life on campus when, lo and behold, who should show up unannounced but Mick.
Although this doesn’t sit well with Charlie, he’s still too intimidated by this manster with anger management issues to summon up the strength to ask him to leave.
So, not surprisingly, a similar dysfunctional relationship soon develops to the one they had back in New York. This means Mick not only steals Charlie’s very obliging girlfriend (Eva Amurri) but beats the crap out of any nerds he hangs with. As a Brown University alumnus, it strikes me as highly unlikely that the school would put up with such nonsense from an intruder with a rap sheet and a violent streak.
Nonetheless, The Education of Charlie Banks is entertaining enough, provided you buy into the idea that even eggheads can relate to a rude rebel without a clue. The movie technically marks the directorial debut of Limp Bizkit front man Fred Durst, whose other flick, The Longshots, was released first, though made second.
In sum, if you’re at all intrigued by the idea of exploring angst and anomie among the entitled upper crust, then this Ivy League variation on Fight Club just might satiate an effete brand of bloodlust.
Very Good (3 stars)
Rated R for sexuality, violence, drug and alcohol abuse, and pervasive profanity.
Running time: 101 minutes
Studi Anchor Bay Entertainment
DVD Extras: Audio commentary with director Fred Durst and actor Jason Ritter, “Conversation behind The Education of Charlie Banks” featurette, the theatrical trailer and sneak peeks.
To see a trailer for The Education of Charlie Banks, visit:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cM1yym7gK2c
EUR DVD REVIEW: Nursery University
Documentary on DVD Suggests Early Start on College
DVD Review by Kam Williams
*If you think the competition is fierce to gain entrance to the country’s elite colleges, then you oughta check out the cutthroat tactics employed by parents of toddlers trying to get their little monsters into the country’s exclusive pre-schools. That’s right, pre-schools.
Nursery University, directed by Marc Simon and co-directed by Matthew Makar, follows four couples and a sixty-something single-mother of twins as they endeavor to get their tykes admitted to one of New York City’s top preschools where tuition can be as high as $40,000 a year, matching the cost of an Ivy League education.
Why so expensive? $40,000 may seem like a lot to pay so your kid can have the privilege of finger-painting around other privileged tykes, until you realize that these nurseries are now seen as feeder schools for the Ivies.
Furthermore, the alternative is clearly unacceptable in the minds of the members of this stuffy set. Typical of their attitude were the words of a well-heeled white woman who looks like she has never set foot in the ‘hood who, without a shred of shame, whines, “We’re not going to have him go to a public school in Harlem” when speaking about her precious, 3 year-old.
There are about 15 applicants for every available spot, and as one proud papa puts it, “Pre-school is the first step into getting your child into the college of your choice.” The tension mounts during the family interviews when the directors, principals, teachers and administrators size up each candidate to determine whether he or she exhibits sufficient promise to cut the mustard in their program.
The parents’ anxiety levels peak in anticipation of March 6th, the day on which all the pre-schools simultaneously send out their acceptance and rejection letters. And just as with the college process, you don’t want to get any thin envelopes in the mail.
Still, there’s something a little disgusting about pitting toddlers versus other toddlers academically, especially when they’re too young to understand what the fuss is all about. What’s next, an SAT test for newborns?
A riveting expose’ of what looks an awful lot like child abuse in the name of quality education.
Excellent (4 stars)
Unrated
Running time: 90 minutes
Studi Docurama Films
DVD Extras: Audio commentary by the co-directors, Q&As with the parents, admissions officers and filmmakers, deleted scenes, tips from the experts on getting into nursery school, the theatrical trailer and filmmakers’ biographies.
To see a trailer for Nursery University, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aESkMeVksvs
THE BRIDGE: The Death of A Legend—Michael Died A Thousand Times
By Darryl James
“I hear people say that he was miserable and that he didn’t have a childhood, but we didn’t know anything about that, because he was happy. He was vibrant. He was a kid who was always playing jokes and pranks.”
--Berry Gordy on Michael Jackson
*It was 1969, when a then-eleven year old boy stunned the world with the kind of maturity in song delivery typically found in seasoned adult artists.
Initially, African-Americans were enamored with their little star, Michael Jackson, who had been leading his brothers in a group called The Jackson Five. But with “I Want You Back,” Michael showed so much star appeal that his appeal began to cross all lines—color, age and race. And his star began to singularly shine.
He gave of himself. So much so, that he had no idea what to keep. He tried to keep his private life private, but the public was unwilling to allow that. And when there were no real details, the hell away with him—the world made things up.
And of course things were made up, because, to this day, many of the rumors, the ugly unthinkable accusations, go unproven.
By the time he released his epic “Thriller” album, he crossed so many lines, he began to redefine the music industry, as well as the life and style of musical artists.
By 1983, it was clear that Michael Joseph Jackson had reached legend status and was now the King of Pop.
Professionally, he was beyond the top of his game—he was in a whole new game. He was a young man who had grown up with handlers and was now shaking them to control his own destiny.
But he did so without knowing his way and without any real guidance.
Personally, he was in trouble very early.
“Michael got off kilter,” said Berry Gordy to Tavis Smiley. “He got all the fame and fortune, but he was so strong and so powerful and there was no one to guide him. He had no rudders and everyone needs rudders.”
He had no childhood to speak of, which caused a severely stunted emotional growth.
And because he endured open, graphic and perhaps even depraved and deviant sexual exposure from fans first seeking his older brothers and then seeking him, he died in innocence while still a kid.
For Michal Jackson, as his star continued to rise, he had less of an opportunity to have a real life.
So how do you get to a normal life after living as a superhuman?
The answer, for nearly every superstar is…you don’t.
Michael Jackson, just as most superstars, lived his life “Off The Wall,” if you will. All of his bizarre escapades were public and fans as well as critics were free to give him his lump in life, deciding independently of knowing him whether he was a child molester or misunderstood abused child star.
And, like most superstars, Michael Jackson left his legacy on stage where his image was born and eventually died.
He also died a death for his family as people who never knew him and probably still don’t know where Gary, Indiana is stood convinced that they knew what he endured.
Already, people are resurrecting the rumors of Michael’s father beating the children in order to forge the group he had in mind when making the babies. People are calling Joe Jackson an evil man who abused Michael and who took away his childhood in exchange for monetary gain.
But let’s not pretend that no one knew what was going on in the Jackson home when the Jackson Five were still young. And since no one did anything, then everyone who gained and everyone who enjoyed the music were complicit in the making of the emotionally disturbed, developmentally arrested, immensely talented man known as Michael Joseph Jackson.
The world believes that Michael Jackson’s father abused and pimped his sons and did everything he could to take away young Michael’s childhood, even as Motown’s Founder Berry Gordy issues divergent memories.
“Michael dreamed and practiced while others were playing,” said Gordy. “He did that by choice. He had fun…(on)…those first three records. I hear people say that he was miserable and that he didn’t have a childhood, but we didn’t know anything about that, because he was happy. He was vibrant. He was a kid who was always playing jokes and pranks.”
And, yet, Joe Jackson, who lost pieces of himself as the only portions of him the public knew were torn apart and are being torn apart still as people decide that he has not and is not acting out his life in public as they believe he should.
During the red carpet entrance to the BET Awards, Joe Jackson was maligned for taking the opportunity to promote new artists he is working with. Are his actions any different from what he did with the Jackson Five? And, really, if the world loves his new artists, won’t his sins be forgiven?
After all, Director Roman Polanski admitted to the rape of an underage girl and then fled the country to avoid imprisonment. Yet, he received a standing ovation at the Academy Awards while in exile.
Isn’t that what we love?
Isn’t there something titillating about the freakish, hedonistic and/or downright debauched behavior of our artists that makes us pay attention while supporting the art they make?
Is Michael Jackson, who became a physical freak and an emotional train wreck any different?
Sadly, no.
People are saying that this is our Elvis, but Elvis wasn’t my Elvis. I just didn’t care when he died. However, there are some real parallels.
First, Elvis and Michael were both struggling with weight issues.
Elvis was a big fat man and the brunt of many jokes before he died.
Conversely, Michael was a tiny, tiny man and if his actual weight were known he would have also been the brunt of many jokes.
Second, both Elvis and Michael were plagued by substance abuse.
Elvis Presley’s heart stopped as a result of prescription drug abuse including codeine, valium, morphine and Demorol.
Michael Jackson’s heart stopped and he was never revived. The autopsy revealed that he had been injecting painkillers. A search of his rented home revealed an abuser’s prized collection of prescription drugs which were in many names outside of his own.
Third, both were known for their dance moves as much as their songs.
Elvis became famous for his pelvic gyrations that sent teen girls screaming and swooning into fits.
Michael became known his floating on air moonwalk, as much as for grabbing his crotch.
They both loved Lisa Marie Presley.
Elvis was her father and for a brief time, Michael was her husband.
And both Kings died with the majority of their money in other people’s pockets.
Finally, both Elvis and Michael were making attempts to wrestle with their height of fame by planning to rise to those heights again.
Of course, neither was successful at the final comeback.
People want to continue the discussion of his innocence or guilt, but he is a man never convicted, so let’s allow that discussion to rest in peace along with Michael.
People want to pretend that something extrahuman is occurring because so many famous people died in a short time, but why don’t they care when other humans die closely within each other?
Celebrities die. They are human and it is simply what humans do.
Some celebrities seem to die multiple deaths and Michael Jackson died a thousand times.
He died at age ten when he began to live an adult’s life on stages and in limousines, instead of on playgrounds and in go karts.
Michael Joseph Jackson died when he refused to become a grown man, instead choosing to recreate himself in the image of the child he never really was.
And he died when, heartbroken, people he imagined loved him came to tear pieces of his flesh in order that they may live and flourish, never caring if he lived or died.
And, finally, when his light, bright light of life was extinguished, Michael Joseph Jackson died a final time as his spirit abandoned his corporeal existence for another light and another existence.
No matter what you thought of him, he gave the world a great deal with his music and entertaining. None of us can stand in judgment of him any longer. At the end of the day, he was a troubled soul who suffered a damaged life because of what the public wanted from him. And now...he's free...
Michael Joseph Jackson has died his final death.
Darryl James is an award-winning author of the powerful new anthology “Notes From The Edge.” He released his first mini-movie, “Crack,” and will soon release his first full-length documentary. View previous installments of this column at www.bridgecolumn.proboards36.com. Reach James at djames@theblackgendergap.com.
THE JOURNAL OF STEFFANIE RIVERS: Indecisive Bliss
*Where can you go to eat crawfish, barbecue meatballs, ribs, stuffed pizza, polish sausage with sauerkraut, peach cobbler and see a Charlie Wilson and Cameo concert in one place? At the Taste of Chicago. I did it all last weekend and there’s still time for you to do it too. The Taste is going on through July 5th.
Growing up in a small city, I appreciate the simple pleasures of life such as sitting in my grandparents’ back yard shucking corn or people watching from a rocking chair on the front porch with my family. Those were the days! But I’ve learned to appreciate what bigger cities have to offer. While I can do without the rush hour traffic, and the aggressive nature most people have acquired just to get from point A to point B, I love good food, good music and a chance to sample it all without overspending my budget.
That’s what the Taste of Chicago is all about. It was my first time there, but it won’t be my last.
And the concert: I’ve paid for entertainment that was less entertaining than the free three-hour concert last Friday night. I felt as if I was still in high school listening to Cameo play their popular 80’s tunes. And Charlie Wilson, former lead singer of his family group The Gap, proved why his latest CD is at the top of the charts.
People travel from all over the country to participate in the annual event. My mother and I had planned to meet there; her coming from the east and me from the west. But she didn’t make it due to overbooked flights. Still me, myself and I had a great time! Times like these make me glad to have grown up as an only child who can have fun all by myself.
In addition to the more than fifty restaurant booths, vendors were there selling jewelry, clothes and other wares. It was the best way to sample what Chicago has to offer without getting lost trying to find your way around town.
Whether in San Francisco, Las Vegas or Chicago the cost of a local bus or train ride – instead of expensive cab fares and car rentals - will help stretch your money farther and leave more to spend on entertainment and food. Public transportation takes longer to get there, but I have more time to spare than I have money to spend.
So if you can’t decide between Italian, or barbecue or seafood or soul food you can have it all at the Taste of Chicago. Indigestion is a small price to pay.
Send questions, comments or requests for speaking engagements to Steffanie at
teamtcbadvertising@hotmail.com. And view the video version of her journal at youtube.com/steffanierivers.
TURNER’S TWO CENTS: DID MICHAEL JACKSON COMMIT SUICIDE?
by Cameron Turner
*Michael Jackson died of a heart attack which may or may not have been caused by his use of prescription drugs. But could his death have been a kind of indirect suicide? Michael was unhappy for decades and I keep wondering if he had lost enthusiasm for life itself.
He certainly had lost his passion for performing. Michael Jackson spent the past several years running away from work -- even though he was being crushed by a mountain of debt (estimated to be over $400 million). Michael didn’t do anything to promote last year’s 25th anniversary of “Thriller.” No TV special, no all-star concert, nothing. Casino tycoon Steve Wynn wanted to build a huge Las Vegas extravaganza around the King of Pop, but Michael passed on that opportunity. The prince of Bahrain (who let Michael and his kids flop at his castle for over a year) signed a deal with Jackson for a new album, a movie and a world tour. Michael fooled around in the prince’s studio but never finished any music so the prince got in line with all the other creditors who are suing Jackson.
Obviously, Michael Jackson was in no hurry to get back into the studio or onto the stage. Various spokespeople claimed he was excited about this summer’s planned concerts at London’s O2 Arena, but that’s hard to believe. Michael sounded more resigned than enthusiastic when he announced the London shows at a news conference in March. He kept repeating the series title, “This Is It,” in a bland tone of voice that made it seem that he didn’t really want to be bothered with this whole comeback thing.
Add all of that to Michael’s unhealthy weight loss (media reports say he was about 110 pounds when he died), his alleged dependence on prescription drugs, his reckless spending habits, the childish theme of Neverland Ranch and, of course, all of that plastic surgery he had over the years and you have the picture of a man who apparently spent most of his life trying to escape from himself.
No, Michael didn’t commit suicide. Not in the conventional sense. But in the midst of his tangled emotions, might he have given up on living (either consciously or subconsciously) and allowed himself to spiral down to the point where his untimely end became inevitable. To the world, Michael Jackson’s death was a tragedy. To Michael it may have been a relief.
JAY-Z BANS BREEZY?
I need to send Jay-Z a thank you note. Rumor has it that he blocked Chris Brown from performing on the BET Awards. Apparently, when Jay-Z found out that Breezy was booked for the show he threatened to cancel his performance. BET didn’t want to upset Jay-Z, who is not only a gigantic star but also a very influential businessman and the husband of the biggest woman star in the world, Beyonce. So, Chris Brown was dis-invited.
Much love to Jay-Z for taking this stand. It would have been extremely bad form to have Chris appear on the nation’s #1 black music awards gala just days after he pleaded guilty to brutally assaulting Rihanna. Chris needs to sit his behind down somewhere and chill for a good, long while. Let him get some of that community service under his belt. Let him issue a heartfelt confession and apology to Rihanna before he is re-admitted to the limelight. I doubt he’ll do that because, like I’ve been saying for months, I don’t think Chris is truly sorry for what he did. If he is, then let him demonstrate that with a very public and significant statement. Then, and only then, should we re-embrace him.
BEYONCE’S “AVE MARIA” DRESS WAS AN INSULT
Beyonce’s rendition of “Ave Maria” on the BET Awards was enchanting. But what was up with that dress? You don’t sing hymns in a see-through gown with your legs, shoulders and cleavage all out and with bright lights shining behind you to silhouette all of your sexy curves. That’s just plain disrespectful. The dress Beyonce wore for the performance was a beautiful piece of artwork. It was also sexually suggestive and that made it inappropriate and insulting for the presentation of a religious song, especially one of the most reverent and time-honored hymns in the Catholic canon. Beyonce grew up in church so she should have known better.
Thank you for listening. I’m Cameron Turner and that’s my two cents.
THINK! IT AIN’T ILLEGAL…YET!
PEOPLE OF NOTE: UN to Feature “Lost Maiden,” A Film About Female Genital Mutilation on July 10th
by Deardra Shuler
*With women being the target of abuse and violence throughout the world, America is now seeing in their hospitals the cultural abuse and torture that women from countries in Africa, the Middle and Far East, experience via their own families and communities. Sadly this is not a torture imposed on young girls and babies (as early as 6 months) from cruelty but rather from ignorance.
Few American women can imagine their families forcing them to undergo a procedure that will leave a hole where their clitoris once was, savagely cut out of them via anything sharp; a knife (not always sterilized) a razor blade, sharp rock and even in some cases, jagged glass. Hard to believe that this can still be happening in the 21st century but some traditions are blindly followed for no other reason than that people always have. Even though, most people cannot even remember when the tradition began or why.
Nigerian born nurse and Nollywood star, Chisom Oz-Le, sees birth mothers who have undergone this procedure coined “Female Genital Mutilation” in hospitals where she works. These women are in great pain because the scar tissue resulting from this form of mutilation often prevents the vaginal elasticity necessary to allow the baby to be born naturally through the birth canal. Unfortunately, the baby experiences great stress and in some incidences dies. Chisom decided to stand against thousands of years of tradition and do something to end this unnecessary practice through her film “Lost Maiden.”
“Lost Maiden is a film about female genital mutilation. I was inspired by the fact that I see what girls and women go through when they come to deliver their babies in hospitals. I began to research, interview and tackle this problem once I understood that some females who undergo female genital mutilation (FGM), do not understand the root of their delivery problems. I believe much of their delivery problems stem from the cuts involved in FGM. The way this procedure is done, is the clitoris is cut off as well as the adjacent tissues, oftentimes with unsterilized equipment by unexperienced villagers under unsanitary conditions,” explained the RN and actress.
You may be asking yourselves why would the parents allow this and why would some women who have undergone the cruelty of this practice, condone it. Well, because its tradition. Throughout the centuries, countries that enforce this practice like Africa see it as law. They are taught that female circumcision is a rite of passage. They believe that if you are not circumcised you are not a full woman.
“You must be circumcised to be recognized in the society. You are expected to be a maiden. But it’s a tradition that has no benefit whatsoever. It’s more of a selfish thing to cut off something that is the only source of pleasure for women during intercourse. The reason behind this, I believe, is that men think that when a woman can’t have sexual feelings, then she is less promiscuous. Whoever invented this tradition and implemented it, did it out of cruelty and selfishness” stated Chisolm who produced and stars in the “Lost Maiden” film.
Many women get infection and if not treated die as a result. Also, some young girls who undergo the procedure while being forcefully held down by family or community members, are expected to remain silent while their labia is being cut out. If they cry or scream while suffering excruciating pain, it is deemed they are not fully women and can be later ostracized by the community as a result.
“The labia that covers the vaginal opening is cut off and then the woman tightly stitched leaving the woman susceptible to infection because infection can freely go into the vagina. Most of the problem is urinary tract infection. The bladder gets infected and sometimes urine gets backed up. When you have frequent urinary tract infection it causes bladder cancer. Also, excruciating pain is another complication as well as hemorrhaging. Before marriage these women are unstitched, thus subjecting women to another unnecessary procedure by non experts. They just do these circumcisions without knowledge and therefore can cut off an artery causing the person to bleed to death. Women lucky enough to survive it, often have scar tissues that forms around the vaginal opening making it difficult for child birth. Due to the high mortality rate among circumcised females and their babies, I wanted to do something to educate these potential mothers and show them that there is no reason for these circumcisions whatsoever.”
Chisom Oz-Lee is showcasing her movie “Lost Maiden,” in conjunction with Save Africa Concerts Foundation, Femmes Africa Solidarite and Best Icon Productions in hopes of educating the world about the harmful effects of female circumcision in an attempt to end this dangerous practice. The film stars Nollywood actors: Ngozi Ezeonu, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, Binbo Akintola, and Kalu Ikeagwu and will be shown at the United Nations Church Center, located at 777 United Nations Plaza, 2nd Fl (corner of 1st Avenue and 44th Street in NYC) on Friday, July 10th at 4:00 p.m. Program starts at 5PM. Admission is free. Both Michelle Lopez and Chisom are Save Africa Concerts Foundation spokespersons, as are Adama Duof, UN Representative; Dr. Dorothy Ogundu, President/Founder of AngelDocs and spokeswoman for Femmes Africa Solidrite. Additional special guests are: Dominican actress Wanda Eferreiras, Ini Edo, Kalu Ikeagwu, Chigozie N. Atuanya, Emmanuel Ehumadu, Chris Iheanacho and Moses Inwang.
Interested parties can RSVP Hardy Jimbes at Info@sacaids.org or visit www.tuffgig.com
EUR MOTIVATIONAL NOTE
"If you wanna make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and then make a change." – Michael Jackson "Man in the Mirror" (written by Siedah Garrett)
CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS
June 30: Singer Lena Horne is 92. Jazz bassist Stanley Clarke is 58. Actor David Alan Grier is 53. "American Idol" winner Fantasia Barrino is 25.
WEBSITE OF THE WEEK
BlushBlog is an online community where the authors blog about men, relationships, fashion, marriage, single life and more. Visit www.blushblog.com and comment.
Submit your favorite Web site to us along with a 15-20 word (or less) description to info@eurweb.com.
BLACK HISTORY
June 30, 1847: Dred Scott, a slave, filed suit in the St. Louis Circuit Court claiming that his temporary residence in a free territory should have made him a free man. Scott would lose the case. (source: www.BlackFacts.com)
