The family of Michael Jackson issued a statement today:
In one of the darkest moments of our lives we find it hard to find the words appropriate to this sudden tragedy we all had to encounter. Our beloved son, brother and father of three children has gone so unexpectedly, in such a tragic way and much too soon. It leaves us, his family, speechless and devastated to a point, where communication with the outside world seems almost impossible at times.
We miss Michael endlessly, our pain cannot be described in words. But Michael would not want us to give up now. So we want to thank all of his faithful supporters and loyal fans worldwide, you – who Michael loved so much. Please do not despair, because Michael will continue to live on in each and every one of you. Continue to spread his message, because that is what he would want you to do. Carry on, so his legacy will live forever.
In addition, Joseph Jackson wishes to personally convey: “My grandchildren are deeply moved by all the love and support you have shown for them and their father, Michael Jackson.”
Joseph Jackson & Family
And in other MJ news:
Jackson’s addiction may have started when his hair caught on fire during a Pepsi commercial shoot in 1984. He was hospitalized for days with a burned scalp.
The Jackson family are looking for answers. Not satisfied with the initial autopsy conducted by the LA coroners office, they want a private autopsy. Jackson’s body was released to them on Friday. Deepak Chopra said earlier Saturday that Jackson asked him for painkillers in 2005 when Jackson was staying with him following his sex abuse trial..
More MJ News After the JUMP…
Jackson’s “personal physician” who was with Jackson when he died, cardiologist Conrad Robert Murray, has hired a lawyer, who says Murray is cooperating with authorities and is “not a target”. Murray had been living with Jackson the two weeks prior to his death.
Janet and LaToya Jackson arrived at Jackson’s home with moving trucks today. A court battle for child custody looms. Experts say the party with the strongest legal claim for the two oldest children is their mother, Debbie Rowe. Right now, the children are in the care of the Jackson extended family.
AEG Live will offer refunds to ticket holders of Jackson’s London shows. Michael Jackson is set to make Billboard chart history again. The Apollo theater in NY, where the Jacksons once performed shows, plans a star studded tribute. Time magazine rushes out a Jackson issue. The Jackson family plans MJ’s memorial.