For so many reasons, Michael Jackson must have been spinning in his million-dollar mausoleum last night.
His kids, Prince and Paris, whom he draped in bee keeper’s hats and masks to keep them out of the public, took center stage and accepted his Lifetime Achievement Award at the 52nd annual Grammy Awards.
Yes, they were poised and articulate. That certainly shows that Jackson’s parenting was better than anyone could have guessed.
But their remarks were scripted. And when Prince Michael, Jackson’s 12-year-old son with Debbie Rowe, spoke, it was worth examining what he said. He acknowledged both his “grandma” — Katherine Jackson, his legal guardian — and his “grandpa,” Joe Jackson, whom Michael hated. Joe Jackson is currently suing Michael’s estate to get a $20,000-per-month allowance.Michael would have returned to being black before he would have let his kids have anything to do with Joe Jackson. Praising him in public? Never. And poor Prince didn’t realize he was shilling for his “grandpa.” That part was sad.
But this was very much like little Paris’ comments on the same stage — the Staples Center — last July at Michael’s memorial service. That’s when Janet Jackson encouraged the 10-year-old to come forward and make a statement about Michael in front of a stadium of strangers.
Michael Jackson’s kids don’t know it yet, but they are being as stage-managed as their predecessors, Michael and his brothers and Janet, when they were children. It’s a little heartbreaking.
Hopefully, the probate judge in Joe Jackson’s case won’t be swayed by this performance. But it will certainly be interesting to see if Prince’s speech winds up in court papers drawn up for Joe Jackson. Stay tuned.
February 1st, 2010 at 12:10 pm
What about Debbie Rowe, wasn’t part of her not fighting for custody that Joe Jackson stay away from the kids? Prince talking about his grandfather may make her rethink the arrangement.
February 1st, 2010 at 12:22 pm
I can’t believe out of that great speech by Prince, all you got out of it was that he was shilling for his grandfather. God was the first that he thanked. Did you people not get the message? Pathetic!
February 1st, 2010 at 12:39 pm
Who the hell wwrote this piece of crap? What do you actually KNOW about the Jackson Family? Do you know them? No you do not. Michael Jackson may have had his problems with his Father but he apparantly had made ammends with him because in THIS IS IT Michael actually plans waht he will say during a J5 portion of the show. He says “this is where I’ll say I love you…Jermaine, Randy, blah, balh, blah and Katherine & Joseph I love you very much.” Those are his own words. Nobody forced him to say it. How can you say for certain that Prince was “forced” to say what he did last night? Just because something is scrpited doesn’t mean the person reading doesn’t agree. Did you think Prince was going to come out before all of those people and “wing it”?
Why must the media constantly speculate and try and cause a problem where one doesn’t necessarily exist? Leave those kids alone. From the looks of it they are far more intelligent, poised and caring than most of the kids I know from “normal, functional” families. Buzz off!
February 1st, 2010 at 12:39 pm
“Michael would have returned to being black before he would have let his kids have anything to do with Joe Jackson.”
Wow. You have really outdone yourself. I haven’t read anything this ignorant in a long, long time.
February 1st, 2010 at 12:46 pm
Michael would of never stepped in front of them if they wanted to be a part of it. I think it was good thinkg that they are showing them selfs and showing that are ok. Stop thinking that this family has a motive! They don’t! Did you everthink that they wanted to do this for there dad?
February 1st, 2010 at 12:51 pm
HUGE JACKSON CONCERT NEWS. THE FIRST OFFICIAL CONCERT BY A JACKSON SINCE MICHAEL’S PASSING HAS BEEN SET. REBBIE JACKSON WILL PERFORM WITH (MYSTERY SPECIAL GUESTS AND THE TEMPTATIONS) LIVE APRIL 24 AT THE MELLOW THEATER IN SCRANTON, PA. TICKETS GO ON SALE MONDAY, FEB. 15. THE SHOW WILL INCLUDE A JACKSON MEDLEY AND A ONE OF A KIND HOMAGE TO MJ. FOR INFORMATION AND TICKETS CALL (570) 961-1456
February 1st, 2010 at 12:52 pm
Even though Michael hated his father as a child, he did not deny him rights to see his children. Michael and Katherine said themselves that his children love their grandfather.
February 1st, 2010 at 1:02 pm
Ok the comment about Michael would return to being black. Is totally RUDE. Michael is black. He was proud of his hertigage. Let the kids say what they want. This was for their dad. No one else.
February 1st, 2010 at 1:03 pm
You know Roger you are full of alot of crap. Let’s not forget all the B.S. you wrote about these kids father. Isn’t it possible these kids wanted to go accept that award in honor of their father? That no one pushed them to do it. I am no big fan of Joe Jackson, but it’s also possible that Michael had dealt with his problems with Joe. He and the kids were at the anniversary dinner in May 09 given for Joe and Katherine. Could it be possible that Joe who is 81 years old could be alot better grandfather then he was father. We don’t even know if these kids have any talent, so your stupid talk of them being groom to become the next Jackson act is just that stupid. Roger you have taken a nice sweet moment and try to turn it into something sinster. I was so proud of Prince and Paris. Considering the last time they were in the Staple Center were July 09 at their father’s memorial services. I’m sure they were alittle nervous.But they would have made their father so proud. And thank you Prince for thanking your father’s fans. We love him and miss him so much.
February 1st, 2010 at 1:07 pm
What a shmuck. This piece of garbage is your ‘take’ on yesterday’s events?
And if you think we’ve forgotten what you and your ‘colleagues’ did to Michael when he was up against the wire in 2005 – we haven’t. Americans are slowly but surely waking up to the fact that we have jackals writing at our presses and media outlets – absolute jackals.
I’m sure Michael’s children will totally appreciate it.
Well done mate. Well done.
February 1st, 2010 at 1:15 pm
Observing the media coverage today, I have seen various comments decrying the ‘exploitation’ of Michael’s children. Interesting isn’t it, that when the media narrative on Mr Jackson occupying televison networks, print and online sites from 1993 onwards and notably from 2003-2005, was overwhelmingly salacious, negative – and in many cases actually dishonest; then nobody was saying ‘enough’ or ‘when will the tributes end?’
It would seem that while the appetite to damn or forget Mr Jackson remains ever-present, it is only when his children, friends and fans want to give some degree of respect and honour to his memory, that suddenly detractors start tiring of the subject.
Science has a lot going for it. Its abiding mantra being; if something has not been proven to be so – it is not so. If, after over a decade of forensic investigation by both the FBI and the LAPD, no evidence of criminal wrongdoing could be attibuted to Mr Jackson; then that is because there was no criminal wrongdoing to be attributed.
It was, however, proven to the satisfaction of a conservative jury in republican Santa Barbara, that not only were the charges of molestation baseless, but also that the minor misdemeanours of intent to intoxicate and conspiring to imprison were completely unfounded.
In light of the release of the FBI files now confirming Michael’s innocence, no doubt the media and the American criminal justice system who allowed one man – Tom Sneddon’s, deeply personal vendetta against Mr Jackson to become the prosecutorial obscenity that it did, would prefer that people forgot about what was done to Michael Jackson.
For Michael’s children sake I hope we do not. One day, if not now, they will have difficult questions. Will those answers consist of the self-interested misinformation promoted by Diane Dimond and the mostly American media?
A media, incidentally that has been deliberately askewing and not disclosing key facts about the details and fact of Mr Jackson’s innocence regarding molestation accusations for over 15 years, and clearly would rather the whole matter of Mr Jackson’s children just go away?
The children were nervous because it was an awe-inducing space, not because they did not want to speak. They have every right to speak. Michael Jackson is their father, whether anyone thinks they look like him or not.
And by God – they have every right to be heard.
February 1st, 2010 at 1:16 pm
GOOD NEWS
HUGE JACKSON CONCERT NEWS. THE FIRST OFFICIAL CONCERT BY A JACKSON SINCE MICHAEL’S PASSING HAS BEEN SET. REBBIE JACKSON WILL PERFORM WITH (MYSTERY SPECIAL GUESTS AND THE TEMPTATIONS) LIVE APRIL 24 AT THE MELLOW THEATER IN SCRANTON, PA. TICKETS GO ON SALE MONDAY, FEB. 15. THE SHOW WILL INCLUDE A JACKSON MEDLEY AND A ONE OF A KIND HOMAGE TO MJ. FOR INFORMATION AND TICKETS CALL (570) 961-1456
February 1st, 2010 at 1:17 pm
“Michael would have returned to being black before he would have let his kids have anything to do with Joe Jackson.”
YOU RACIST B@STARD!
February 1st, 2010 at 1:21 pm
“Michael would have returned to being black before praising Joe in public.” I’m not even going to unpack that bit of bullshit, Roger. I just want to note that Michael Jackson praised his father in a speech in Great Britain not even 5 years ago. I’d also like to note that he was at his parents’ anniversary party not even 11 months ago. I’d also like to note that paparrazzi have numerous shots of Michael with his father only a few months before his death. Let’s be clear: Roger Friedman hates Joe Jackson. It’s him that he views as the entitled, uppity negro who should sit down and shut up. It’s the Jackson family that he views as corrupting forces on MJ’s supposedly pure, lily-white offspring. This Is It. Goodbye and good riddance from a once loyal reader.
Hope Friedman gets fired from this gig too!
February 1st, 2010 at 1:22 pm
I just think it was another one of good old Roger Friedman butching of the Jacksons. No they are not a perfect family, alot like yours Roger except yours have no talent. Prince is 12 years old he can write his own words. If that was scripted then why didn’t someone write what Paris was going to say? And Terri please don’t bring up Debbie Rowe. And Glenda in Texas, I agree with you.
February 1st, 2010 at 1:30 pm
WOW – I think you need to find out what is wrong with you!— such a wonderful tribute by Michael’s loving children – and all you see is the negative. I truly believe they wanted to do this for their father. I am also no fan of Joe, but these are Michael’s kids, who loved their father very much. If I were them, I would do the same. They seem to be so well adjusted and mature for their age. We, the people, should write articles about the media outlets and their “writers” that only “trash” people and tear them down to let everyone know that you seem to be the one with the problem when you cannot see the good in people.
Michael would be so proud of his children, and they of him!
February 1st, 2010 at 1:39 pm
Even Pres. Obama uses a teleprompter. What on earth is wrong with a twelve and eleven year old, speaking to hundreds of millions, scripting a speech? Gimme a break!!!!
February 1st, 2010 at 1:52 pm
Last night’s speech was about the kids wanting to honor their father. It didn’t have anything to do with anyone else. Your comments about Joe Jackson and Michael Jackson are wayyyy over the top and it would seem that you also have an agenda…against Joe Jackson.
February 1st, 2010 at 1:57 pm
Roger,
If you wrote this article it is way beneath you. I agree with Nellieo – the article is crap. No matter what Michael may have felt about his father (and he did say he loved him in This Is It) at least he taught his children to respect their grandparents. I thought the children were beautiful and spoke wonderfully of their father. Whether they had help or not! If the family wanted them in the spotlight it certainly would not have taken seven months to put them there! I thought you were better than that Roger! Michael would have been very proud of his children, they showed poise, class, and were very reserved! I think it highly unfair to disect Michael’ children period! They have been through and endured enough – remember they are CHILDREN!
February 1st, 2010 at 2:10 pm
Roger you can say what you,wont about the jackson,my dad michael jackson.wasn’t a angel,and I understand your feelings,Roger,but pleas,dont go ther by saying,my dad dint wont to be Black,I understand you,you know just like me,Michal jackson lay to math.that the true people dont wane know, how Bad the jackson just ar,they gone be in shok when the tru cams out about the real michael jackson,I dont know way you ar traying to make theam see the michael jackson.they dont wont to see it Roger. you can beter ask way Diana Ross is never ther what is she heiding!!.
February 1st, 2010 at 2:14 pm
The “back to black” comment is so very rude. Do you not think Michael would have given just about anything to have his natural skin color back? To never have the vitiligo? To never have the lupus? It was not Michael’s choice to lose his pigment, but he paid dearly for that anyway. He was made to pay by people like you who had no compassion for a man with a skin disease. Shame on you.
February 1st, 2010 at 2:32 pm
Standing up clapping for Deborah French! Preach it girl!!!!
February 1st, 2010 at 2:36 pm
It is what it is…However,Joe Jackson should really be ashamed of himself going after Micheals estate. That in it of it self tells you exactly how Micheal really felt about his father, wouldnt you say? I am sure he loved Joe however,it is obvious with reservation.And you would think Joe would want his grandkids to have Micheals money not him..How could he even think he is entitled to any is beyond me.This was a dynasty Micheal built as a solo artist,Joe already had the pleasure of royaltys from the group. He dont deserve any now.No Jackson does outside of his children,and legal gaurdian…
February 1st, 2010 at 2:37 pm
Even if Michael “hated” his father, that doesn’t mean the kids are required to hate or spurn their grandfather. Everyone can make their own decisions on who they care about.
February 1st, 2010 at 2:38 pm
And if some of you are still saying those kids aren’t MJ’s…look again at Prince if you can honestly tell me those eyes aren’t exactly Michael, the nose, the full face just like MJ at that age! Paris favors the Jackson girls mostly and definitely Katherine and Debbie! Totally HIS kids in every way..Blanket is obvious!
February 1st, 2010 at 2:40 pm
Roger, I’ve agreed with some things you have written but you’re out of your league on this one. Of course their speeches were scripted…all of those Grammy speeches are scripted! Do you expect that a 12-year-old boy should be able to stand in front of millions and speak impromptu? It’s been said on good authority that the kids wrote their own speeches. They are not babies, so I’m sure they are capable of doing that.
Furthermore, you’ve followed this family long enough that you should know Michael had long ago for the most part forgiven his father. They may have had their issues, but one thing he did not do was to raise those kids to hate their grandfather…that’s something he would have never allowed. They may or may not get along with him in real life but that doesn’t mean they should be expected to either air the family’s dirty laundry in public or else refuse to be polite by not acknowledging him in their speech. I really think you overstepped your bounds with this one, sorry.
February 1st, 2010 at 2:41 pm
Oh Roger did you choke on your doughnuts when Prince thanked his Grandpa? Seriously did you drop your bags of potato chips on the floor? Did you did piss you off so much that instead of eating five foot long hot dogs you ate four instead? Like it or Not Roger Prince and Paris Jackson are living with there black family and seeing there black grandfather and living off there black father’s money. Michael Jackson was a black man no matter how white skin might have been. And you sir are racist bastard no matter how you may try to deny it. I am just killed you that the children thanked there grandfather knowing full well what they said as nothing to do with him getting or not getting an allowance and if he did so what it is not your money. But here is something you can do the next you get blowing Marc ask him as your clean your mouth off has Debbie seen her kids yet
February 1st, 2010 at 2:51 pm
Uh, “Michael would have turned Black” Since he was born Black and still is Black. What does that stupid statement mean?
MICHALE NEVER SAID HE “HATED” HIS FATHER, THIS IS HOW NASTY RUMORS GET STARTED.
Watching “This Is It” People, we really lost someone very special and I can’t imagine what his children are going through.
Michal for those of us who love you we will continue to fight make sure the public is aware of the truth about you inspite of insensitive, ugly, and negative people and article who continue to wrongly portray the beautiful man you were inside and out.
R.I.P. Prince Charming
February 1st, 2010 at 2:54 pm
LEAVE THE KIDS ALONE!!!!!!!!!!!THEY WERE UP THERE ACCEPTING THE AWARD FOR THEIR FATHER,TRYING TO DO SOMETHING GOOD,THEY WERE PROUD OF THEIR DAD AND THEY HAD EVERY RIGHT TO BE THERE IF THEY WANTED TO BE.MICHAEL TAUGHT HIS KIDS TO HAVE RESPECT,THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH THEM THANKING THEIR GRAND FATHER.IT SHOWS GOOD MANNERS,GIVE THEM SOME CREDIT FOR THAT!THE MEDIA BEST NOT START IN ON THESE KIDS LIKE THEY DID THEIR FATHER,I WON’T STAND FOR IT …ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!!!!
MICHAEL WAS PROUD OF BEING BLACK,”BACK TO BLACK” IS THE MOST IGNORANT COMMENT I HAVE EVER HEARD!!
February 1st, 2010 at 2:54 pm
Please get over your hate for the Jacksos. the kids did great and it’s a shame that you want to exploit them in this manner by stirring controversy.
We all know you hated Michael but he was an adult. These are children. Why is is necessary to dissect them like this? Shameful!!!
The racist comment you made should be addressed by your bosses. This is uncalled for. Just because you have a blog doesn’t mean you can offend black Americans like this. Do your bosses hold the same racist views?
Yes, the Jacksons are black and they will grow up in the black culture, Roger whether you like it or no. Oh, and by the way they were raised by their black father, Michael Jackson. Deal with it. Are is all this drama for your best friend Debbie Rowe??
February 1st, 2010 at 2:55 pm
Roger, weren’t you the guy that reported that the kids wanted to accept the award because they were tired of the brothers getting all the attention. Who are your sources exactly. Ofcourse the kids love their Grandpa, and MJ loved his father despite what Joe had done to him in the past. MJ always thanked both of his parents when he won awards. The kids lost their Father less then a year ago, they could use all the love and support they can get and they can publicly thank whomever they want. I usually respect your pieces but this seems too low-brow for you.
February 1st, 2010 at 3:19 pm
I really do believe you are showing the racist side of you. Michael was always a black man. We all know he was black – he was not trying to be something different. Are YOU in the spotlight every day, dealing with a skin disorder. To me, and millions around the world, Michael was beautiful – inside and out. Unlike the people that only HATE. Listen to some of Michaels lyrics!!!! The children should be proud and I, and all Michael’s fans, will do our best to keep reminding the children that, his father was loved!
YES — LEAVE THOSE KIDS ALONE — DONT DO TO THEM WHAT YOU AND YOUR MEDIA, MONEY HUNGRY (SO CALLED) WRITERS, DID TO THEIR FATHER!
February 1st, 2010 at 3:43 pm
you should be ashamed of yourself, those poor kids got up there after suffering 7 months w/o their beloved father and said a speech in front of hundreds, and they did it the best way possible and in my personal opinion for that to be prince’s first public speech, he did great & paris, i believe she wanted to say more but was too nervous & choking up.. they probably felt like they did their father well & even tho michael would disagree, i know he’s proud of them.. give them some credit & stop being so negative & far as Joe goes.. they are in the hands of Katherine so why would he have say so? And FYI, Michael didn’t hate Joe, he solved his issues & made up w/ his father and what’s wrong w/ Prince giving credit to Joe? Michael did it in many of his acceptance speeches!!
And how dare you say Michael would have went back to black.. he never wanted to leave black.. He had vitiligo, it’s something he CAN’T help so you should respect that & keep your rude & ignorant comments to yourself, i bet if you or your child had a skin disease like that you would be pissed if people make remarks like that!!
February 1st, 2010 at 3:45 pm
Roger, you have no idea what you are talking about. You only know *thismuch* and have made up your own conclusion based on misinformation. Of course Prince read his statment from the teleprompter. Everyone does it on these shows, so how is this ’scripted’ and unusual?
Michael may have excluded Joe from his will, but that doesn’t mean that he had not made his peace with him in recent years. Did you not see This Is It, where he mentions his love for his parents as part of the show? Sure it was the show, but if he didn’t mean it, he could have left it out.
The Jacksons certainly do have their issues with Papa Joe from time to time, but I do not feel that Michael would be the sort to turn his children against any grandparent. I believe the children are sincere in thanking both their grandparents. They are small miracles and have shown themselves to be little survivors.
February 1st, 2010 at 3:46 pm
I believe they wanted to speak themselves. It’s a bit too much to ask that a 13 year-old boy should take part in an old family feud by omitting to mention his grandfather along with his grandmother. Michael chose Katherine as a guardian, hence he knew Joe would be in the picture. I don’t think Michael ever really managed to get close to Joe or even heal his wounds, but he tried. Remember the awkward moments during the trial, when Joe tried to take Michael’s hand and only managed to grab two fingers? Still, Michael didn’t arrange for his kids to be kept away from Joe.
I don’t like Joe, I think he was very envious of his son’s talent and success. Michael thanked him for not stealing the money and teaching him what he knew. But I don’t know if Joe ever thanked Michael.
The race remark was very clumsy and rude. Imagine waking up black one morning, Roger. Can you understand the identity crisis caused by something like that?
The hostility against Michael from the media after 1993 is shocking. In contrast, now Johnny Depp has joined the brave Hollywood people rallying behind the proven rapist Roman Polanski. Don’t tell me there is not racism involved in the difference.
February 1st, 2010 at 3:51 pm
This article makes not sense. Kids love and respect both grandma and grandpa. They don’t know anything that is going on. Michael did not hate his father. This is written by somebody who reads media and does not know anything about the reality of the situation. What is the point of this?? Just to get hits on google search?? Ridiculous!
February 1st, 2010 at 3:52 pm
Well isn’t this newest Roger Friedman “exclusive” a case of the pot calling the kettle black? I love this website so much better then the last site that you worked for, Mr. Friedman, because (unlike your last employer) it actually allows real people the opportunity to point out the considerable flaws in your “exclusive” details about Michael Jackson via a comments section. Everyone knows that MJ had a deeply strained relationship with his father, but (as another person pointed out) he did plan to express love to his father during each upcoming performance as demonstrated by the aforementioned scene in “This Is It.” Further, Joe Jackson plans to argue in court that Michael took care of him financially while he was still alive. I’m guessing that this posting is merely your opinions about the children’s appearance at the Grammys since you are not citing your “unnamed sources?” Not only is the comment about Michael’s skin tone offensive, but I take even greater offense to you continuing to perpetuate the falsehood that somehow Michael was anything other then a fantastic and loving parent to his children. Aside from the fact that he has been universally praised for his parenting skills by those who knew him best, the children have clearly demonstrated their affection and love for their father. I hope next time you allude to anyone shilling for any profit related to Michael Jackson, you will also acknowledge your considerable role in being a shill for both Fox News and now Showbiz411 in your ongoing “exclusive” attempts to enrich yourself by exploiting Michael Jackson and his family. Honestly, how can you write these postings accusing others of doing the very same thing you have been doing for years? Its very dispicable, Mr. Friedman. Prince and Paris are really brave kids and they should be commended for honoring their father with such class.
February 1st, 2010 at 3:52 pm
To Py: Those kids look like Michael? Are you blind? Look, I am a huge MJ fan and even I can see that Paris and Prince look NOTHING like Michael at any age. In all honesty, they look like Debbie and Arnie Klein. Sorry, that’s just the truth. Michael was their dad in very way that matters and apparently he was a great dad, but they’re not biologically his.
February 1st, 2010 at 4:07 pm
Roger, go see This Is It. Just in case you missed it, Michael acknowledges his father during his performance of I’ll Be There.
Your story is now a non-story.
Have a nice day.
February 1st, 2010 at 4:13 pm
I didn’t find anything bad in Prince mentioning his grandfather. The way I see it, MJ left his children in his mother’s custody, and he knew that his father would be around. He must have accepted that and made peace with it, otherwise he wouldn’t have named his mother guardian.
I think both of the kids did an excellent job, and they seemed so grown up..like mini adults. It was hard to believe, especially listening to Prince, that he is barely thirteen, and his sister twelve! Most adults in this country don’t have half the poise they do. I’m sure that they will go on as they grow up to stay true to what MJ taught them, and to work for the things he cared about..the environment and the human condition.
I wish for them a long, happy, peaceful life. All three of those kids certainly deserve it.
February 1st, 2010 at 4:16 pm
I just watched Kathy Griffin say on the Insider that she was there in the audience at the Grammys,she said she looked at the teleprompter when Prince made his speech and it was empty.THERE WAS NO SCRIPT,PRINCE SPOKE FROM HIS HEART!!JUST LIKE I KNEW HE DID!!!!!!The kids did a wonderful job!
February 1st, 2010 at 4:38 pm
Michael Jackson said in many interviews that his father was a good grandfather was in spite of such a parent. And besides his father called genius.
Michael Jackson is very proud of what their children would feel we did the Sunday and disgusted by your news as usual.
February 1st, 2010 at 4:41 pm
Why does everyone seem to think that they know the Jackson family better than the family know themselves?
February 1st, 2010 at 4:45 pm
TW, go look up a picture of Kitt Shapiro. Then look up who her mother is.
If you don’t like that example, I can provide a dozen more. It’s time to leave 19th-century race science in the 19th century.
February 1st, 2010 at 4:51 pm
Roger, in this article you are very superficial and asinine in your assessments, ignorant of basic facts, and your heart does know how to balance your brain. You need to pay attention to ALL the comments here to spare yourself any further “journalistic” embarrassments! Take notice of the love for Michael, ALL OVER THE WORLD (I’m European) and the intelligences (intellectual, emotional, spiritual) with which comments are offered!
“Bee keeper’s hats?” No, these were silk scarves, the minimum Michael could put over his precious children’s heads to shield them against vicious media and psychopathic hornets! Michael’s children stopped wearing them and the masks several months before their father died. The children were more mature and could better cope with the predatory world, and perhaps the threats against their lives abated somewhat (Michael, his children and family were receiving deadly threats and were under FBI watch since 1992—the FBI files are now accessible on the web). Also, Michael was going to have his children on the stage with him, here and there, during his This Is It concerts, so he had began acclimatizing them to wearing no masks.
“Jackson’s parenting was better than anyone could have guessed”—those of us that followed Michael as a person and a father never needed to GUESS; we KNEW he was an EXCELLENT parent.
Michael himself acknowledged BOTH of his parents, Katherine and Joseph, during the rehearsals for This Is It, and many times before, especially at the end of concert tours, thanking them and god. Yes, Michael was troubled about what his father did to him as a child and resented his emotional absence, but he did not hate him. Michael rarely used the word “hate,” and practically never in his later years. He was a lover and, remarkably, always full of hope against all the horrible odds. As far as Michael’s will—there may have been another one drawn in 2007 (Michael revised his will about every 5 years), which was not “found” (purposely or not), which may have included his father.
As far as Prince or Paris “needing” encouragement from anyone to stand up and speak, especially to defend their father, PHLEASE?! Just wait and see what these amazing young Jacksons will accomplish in their lives, given the excellent start they got into this world by their father. If only more men would be as good a parent as Michael was!
AND pay attention to what people here are expressing about your filthy racism!!!
February 1st, 2010 at 4:55 pm
who are those white kids?
February 1st, 2010 at 5:02 pm
To TW: Kids do not necessarily have to look like one of their parents, they can also look like a relative. Prince appears to look a lot like Joe Jackson’s father Samuel Jackson.
http://media.photobucket.com/image/prince%20jackson/snakestress/princegreatgrandfather981.jpg?o=104
February 1st, 2010 at 5:08 pm
LOVED seeing Prince & Paris accepting the award on behalf of their dad! Finally a tribute to Michael that was about him and their sincere love for him and NOT some family member mugging for their own benefit.
Joe is a douche, so I fully expect him to incorporate Prince’s speech into his petition for funds. he’s an a$$ and I hope his petition is denied!!
note to Debbie….get involved in your kids lives!!!
February 1st, 2010 at 5:27 pm
Michael never hated his father. Take it from someone who really knows a lot about MJ. He always said that his dad is the reason why he is so great and without him he wouldn’t be there
February 1st, 2010 at 5:43 pm
There’s a big difference between hating your father and hating what your father did to you. Honestly, Mike’s at peace and constantly bringing up who hates who is tiring and pointless.
Like someone said before, the children are not required to hate or not mention their grandfather. And please stop with the whole “Michael must be rolling in his grave” thing….seriously, thats childish. Be professional.
Lastly, the “back to black” comment is completely unnecessary. Vitilgo or no vitiligo – that comment is uncalled for. Stop talking about him as if things such as his skin tone make any difference now. Even as a joke, it’s uncalled for (and on that note, no matter what, Michael was their “daddy” – and that’s all that matters).
I think the children did a wonderful job. They didn’t look like they didn’t want to be up there. They were classy and beautiful. Come on, Mr. Friedman – try some L.O.V.E.
February 1st, 2010 at 5:53 pm
OMG. please let it go. Michael is no longer, therefore the circumstances are much different now. We all know what the kids look like, so what difference does it make that they make a speech in honor of their father? I think it would be inappropriate for the kids to be in masks and shields, their entire life especially at their current age.
Why do people think its neccesary to tell the Jacksons how they should raise kids. The kids seem to be well taken care of. Let it go. Let’s move on.
February 1st, 2010 at 6:08 pm
Roger….Does it amaze you so much that Michael Jackson had children that really loved him and are proud to honor their father? Why is it so necessary to tear down everything Michael? I believe these children made a decision to accept this award for their father out of love. Afterall, not many kids want to stand in front of millions on live TV. I’m not a fan of Joe Jackson, but on many occasions Michael did say publicly that he loved his father. After all your years of stalking Michael I think you already know that!
February 1st, 2010 at 6:16 pm
OMG ROGER u are horrible. michael did NOT hate his father and what hell do u mean he would return blac, he was always black so why make such an ignorant remark. the kids love their grandfather so just let it be. always starting UNNECESSARY drama!
February 1st, 2010 at 6:29 pm
Roger,
As far as the comments about Michael “returning to black,” unfortunately, for the naysayers, don’t we now have an autoposy report that confirms that Michael was telling the truth about having Vitiligo (by the way, his fans always believed him)? Why would you make such an insensitive and ignorant remark about a disease that someone has no control over? Would you say the same about someone with cancer or diabetes????? I usually don’t agree with Rev. Al Sharpton, but what he said at Michael’s memorial is soooo true, “Wasn’t nothing wrong with your daddy,” (meaning Michael), “what was wrong, was the way that they treated him,” (meaning lowlife media personalities like you!)
Cathy B
February 1st, 2010 at 7:11 pm
This article is CRAP!
Prince and Paris did a beautiful job! Such sweethearts! You gotta luv them! Michael was also going to pay tribute to his brothers, mother and father during his “This is It” concert. Michael was all about L.O.V.E!
February 1st, 2010 at 7:40 pm
I see, so two children take the stage to receive an award one time on their late father’s behalf and say the word “Grandpa” and now there is some huge, menacing conspiracy surrounding the whole thing?
The most sinister thing I see is a grown man who seems to have turned his attention to a few comments made by a child. You sir, are also stepping into the ring to politicize these children for your own agenda. You are doing exactly what you are accusing Joe Jackson of doing. Has it occurred to you that the children wanted to be there and said what they wanted to say?
Roger, take a step back and realize you are doing the same thing to these kids that you did for YEARS to their father. Your snide comment about Mr. Jackson’s skin color is a pretty good indication you haven’t given up on that obsession so easily even though the man is dead.
February 1st, 2010 at 8:43 pm
Who better to accept MJ’s Lifetime Achievement Award than his ultimate lifetime achievement – his respectful, intelligent, loving children? It’s fascinating to hear people who openly despised Michael Jackson when he was alive bemoan the “exploitation” of his children when they step forward to praise their father. I’m sure that if Prince and Paris weren’t so well brought up by MJ, they would tell these hypocrites to go to hell.
As for “Michael would have returned to being black”, one wonders, what is it about MJ that makes an ostensibly well-educated, reasonably cultured individual like Roger act like a horse’s ass? The list of journalists who have compromised their professional integrity to hate on Michael Jackson is long and sad.
February 1st, 2010 at 9:23 pm
I think the problem for Roger and his chronies in the media is that THESE CHILDREN are the absolute PROOF that every claim they ever made about Michael Jackson for the past 25 years was a lie. There they stood: bright, sociable, well adjusted, respectful and STRONG.
So, now that Michael isn’t around to knock around, you take aim for his children. Is that how it works? Well, guess what? The public is a little wiser this time around.
With everything you have ever said about Michael, I am sure of one thing: He was a far better and more devoted father than you are and I have no doubts that he did a far better job raising his children than you could.
February 1st, 2010 at 9:32 pm
By the way, do you have any idea how well educated these kids are? Their father had college professors tutoring them. I, for one, have no doubts that they wrote their own speeches and have the intellect and confidence to make it far in this world.
February 1st, 2010 at 11:29 pm
This article is tacky. I stopped reading at “Michael would have returned to being black.”
The man had a skin condition. Autopsy reports CONFIRMED that he really had vitiligo. Yet, we still have jack-asses like you, Roger Friedman, who still insist on taking cheap shots at Michael over a condition he could not control. Grow up, you jerk.
It disgusts me to even see someone with a mind like yours even write the names of the Jackson children. They have been through enough. Is it too hard for you to show some respect to their father?
It’s people like you that make me despise the field of journalism.
February 2nd, 2010 at 12:36 am
This is medialoid journalism at its worst taking what is essentially a positive story and giving it a deliberately negative spin to boost your traffic.
February 2nd, 2010 at 12:59 am
When will this racial issue stop in the US??? It looks like it will take many many Obamas to finally end this. Or will it ever? I can only shake my head about what has been written in this article. I am not an American, but unfortunately it was American media which shred Mr. Jackson into pieces without looking behind the curtain i.e. there was no evidence at all of him being guilty – in none of the cases. And as far as Joe Jackson is concerned it is a fact that he abused his children when they were young. It looks like so many people can forgive this just because he is 81 years old now. But there are still so many out there forgetting that Michael Jackson was falsely accused with child molestation and thus, hurt and insulted by this. What kind of double morale that is!!! This way, the world will never ever become a better place. Look at the man in the mirror!
February 2nd, 2010 at 1:33 am
Often people who write about something try to get to know their subject by watching footage, reading primary documents, etc. Anyone who knows anything about Michael (as nearly all of the self-educated commenters here have attested) knows he was A) proud of being black, B) had difficulties with his father but always loved him and acknowledged the contributions he made, and C) that Michael’s children are described by all who’ve met them as smart, caring and well-adjusted kids thanks to all of their familial connections. Next time don’t be so sloppy! Read! A little research won’t kill you. Thank you to all of the above commenters — well said, everybody!
February 2nd, 2010 at 1:38 am
I wonder what it is about Michael Jackson that brings out so much negativity against him. How is he rubbing so many people the wrong way? What has he done? Nothing, except being a musical genius. He was very rarely offensive, he didn’t yell at people, make sarcastic remarks, destroy photographers’ cameras, beat up women or smash hotel rooms (except once, when Tom Sneddon had him arrested).
Maybe that’s it – he tried to be kind. He made himself a target that even some people who believe themselves to be nice and civilized can’t resist because it annoys them no end.
February 2nd, 2010 at 2:08 am
The kids did great, hope they did it because they wanted to and not because they where told to. Found this yesterday, it illustrates the tasteless media hype, that has taken place since Michael died: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CYGPZ4n723s
Start paying some respect! Michael was the biggest entertainer ever, he deserves it!
February 2nd, 2010 at 5:15 am
YES my respect an vote definitely goes to (Deborah Ffrench ) POst above …..After I read her statement I thought Finally someone who cares enough to do the homework .Someone responsible enough to take their job or their writing skills seriously and with the ability to feel compassion and the will to expose the truth ! GOD if there were just a hundred million more just like you!
February 2nd, 2010 at 5:25 am
I’ll admit, the first time I read Roger’s assessment of the kids GRAMMY appearance I wanted to kick my laptop across the room. Having come back and reread his entry, I do not think Roger is a racist. I think in an attempt at sarcasm he used inexcusably poor judgement and FAILED SPECTACULARLY.
I attended the GRAMMY Awards yesterday. With due respect to Kathy Griffin, the kids remarks were indeed scripted. This was obvious to everyone sitting stage right of the children. The prompter feed jumped too far ahead during Lionel’s introduction and never re-synced in time for the kids. Much of what Prince said he recited from memory; And poor Paris! By the time it was her turn, the TelePrompTer screen was a complete blank. How does that make their remarks any less sincere? It is very possible, probable even, that there are adults in their lives whose motivations are less than honorable. But the suggestion that the children’s intentions are anything less than sincere is just plain ludicrous.
Since June I have been careful to make sure any commentary I offer is centered on explaining the legal issues surrounding Michael’s death and never his personal life. I do this for three reasons: (1) It is appropriate to my area of expertise; (2) The media has done an incredibly poor job educating the public on the reasons why things are unfolding as they are legally, opting instead to highlight only the most salacious details, by-and-large providing an inaccurate picture; and (3) because I knew Michael. (Everyone wishing to call me names and a Liar should direct their emails to mjuls00(at)gmail(dot)com.)
I spoke directly with Prince, Paris, and Blanket at the Awards dinner afterward. They are the same charming children they have always been and remain very much a unit unto themselves. They cling tightly to each other and the memory of their Daddy.
SIMBA is correct: It is they who are Michael’s ultimate lifetime achievement.
The final industry tribute has now been paid. Its time for the media to back-off these kids and allow them to get back to the business of being children.
February 2nd, 2010 at 6:03 am
Shame on you Friedman! Back to black? You’ve gone too far with this one. MJ had vitiligo. Leave the kids alone. You had your ‘fun’ with MJ when he was alive. Give it a rest.
February 2nd, 2010 at 6:05 am
Bobbi whats the point now? If you really are his daughter,hes dead.Dont you think the DNA should have been done a long long time ago? So you could have a relationship with him? Isnt that whats important?If you are banking on some bank deposits get behind Joseph…I hope you find the truth you are looking for,if Micheal is really your father then it is what it is,however dont be disappointed if he is not.I do have to say i find it very hard to believe.He would have suported you with some kind of something you and your mom.And Bobbi Micheal was human we all fall short..
February 2nd, 2010 at 7:56 am
This kind of lazy, malicious, cold-hearted ‘journalism’ is the reason why Paris and Prince have to accept their father’s award in the first place.
I hope if you have children Mr Friedman, that they never have to endure what Michael’s children are going through right now; the casual dismissal of who they love and all they are.
This muck you offer here, is a disgrace to you and to your profession.
February 2nd, 2010 at 8:19 am
After he said that comment he looked directly at his cousins and his cousin nodded. It was so planned…totally can see where Roger thought he was shilling for Grandpa Joe.
WOW! at the anger brought out in these comments. If Michael had wanted his children to have a relationship with his father, don’t you think that he would have been included in the will?
February 2nd, 2010 at 8:32 am
Your comment about “Michael would have returned to being black before he would have let his kids have anything to do with Joe Jackson. Praising him in public? Never. And poor Prince didn’t realize he was shilling for his “grandpa.” That part was sad.” is a lie. Joe was at Paris’s birthday party in April. There are pics on the net, perhaps you missed it? He obviously had a relationship with his grandchildren before MJ passed. Are you getting your info from Branca or Dileo? Maybe not good sources. Do better research.
February 2nd, 2010 at 9:20 am
If Michael really wanted to prevent his children from being near Joe, would he have appointed his mother their legal guardian? He might not have liked Joe in the picture, but he knew he couldn’t keep them completely separate. I think the children will eventually understand that Joe not being put in the will was based on something.
A cousin nodding doesn’t necessarily mean anything more than “well done doing this speech”. Of course Prince had been rehearsing – wouldn’t you?
February 2nd, 2010 at 11:29 am
I think Michael would have been proud of his children,accepting the award for him.I must disagree with your reading of the situation;these children are not easily ordered about.They WANTED to accept the award for THEIR father.Prince acknowledged that he HAS a grandfather;Joe isn’t being allowed to stage manage these children.Katherine is there and she doesn’t see eye-to-eye with her husband’s views.They no longer live together full-time,now do they?That should give you a not-so-subtle hint to how things are between Katherine and Joe.Joe doesn’t stand a chance of ordering the children about;Blanket refused to go on stage and he didn’t go.Paris and Prince WANTED to do what they did.
Joe also doesn’t stand a chance of winning his court case.He is going to have to rely on the kindness of his wife if he wants to receive an allowance.
February 2nd, 2010 at 12:30 pm
I am with you all the way Simba!!!
Those children are truly beautiful, just like their Daddy. It shines through them, just like it did in Michael. The beauty of a big heart inside them. I feel Michael would have been so proud to hear how respectful and articulate his kids spoke of him. After all, he raised them to be respectful caring children. Not so hateful like you are Roger.
February 2nd, 2010 at 12:34 pm
Putting someones name in a will has nothing to do with a relationship with that person. How short sighted and narrow minded. The kids did well – I had to do a double take when Prince spoke he sounded so mature. Kudos to Michael – he was their all and he gave them his all. No matter what people think of him, his offspring LOVE him and I know they will do right by him. Prince already has it – he is mature beyond years – he knows what his Father meant to us and the world and what the legacy of MJ means. I know that he being the oldest has had some growing up to do in the wake of MJs death. Why waste paper and kill trees to talk bad about the dead. MJ lived his life the way God directed him to – in the face of adversity he gave and gave and continued to give despite the “ruthless” people that he came in contact with. He never judged the many based on the actions of the few. He gave everyone a fair shake. And because of how he lived, Gods light will shine on his kids for always. Paris and Prince continue to do your DADDY proud.
February 2nd, 2010 at 4:05 pm
ok how much ignorant can you get these kids have been through enough they just lost thier father and all you want to htink about is how much michael hated his dad did you live with the jackson’s do you even know the jackson’s now you don’t for you to take your time out in write this that’s very very ignorant of you that’s that child’s father he said what he felt in his heart in so did paris janet didn’t make her say that she loved her dad he protected them for you to sit there in disrespect him talking about he would rather go back black than for his kids to be around joe this man is black he did alot for his black race something some people in this world didn’t never do you are a ignorant person he has no heart in doesn’t have any respect you should be ashamed of your self you are dispicable think twice before you call your self preaching something you don’t even know.
sincerly
shante’
dixon
February 2nd, 2010 at 8:59 pm
-mjuls-”The prompter feed jumped too far ahead during Lionel’s introduction and never re-synced in time for the kids. Much of what Prince said he recited from memory; And poor Paris! By the time it was her turn, the TelePrompTer screen was a complete blank. ”
Funny thing about TelePrompTers – they don’t make decisions on their own. If this is true, then somebody got sloppy at the Grammys, deliberately so. All the more credit to the Jackson children for maintaining their composure and delivering a touching tribute to their father, in a situation that has undone many a seasoned professional.
February 2nd, 2010 at 10:29 pm
“Putting someones name in a will has nothing to do with a relationship with that person.”
What?
Michael on camera, about Joe: I sometimes regurgitated when I saw him.
Joe on camera, replying later: I suppose he regurgitated all the way to the bank.
Some loving father. He COULD have said he was sorry that he scared Michael when he was a child, that he loved Michael and was proud of him, and that he was grateful for Michael’s generosity and forgiveness.
But he didn’t. He was offended and envious.
So yes, I think not putting him in the will meant something.
February 2nd, 2010 at 10:56 pm
Just to add, Joe seems to have a good relationship with his other grandchildren as well. He has traveled to Europe with his nephew Taj before to Big Brother TV show & other events as well. There is video of that online as well.
February 2nd, 2010 at 11:50 pm
“After he said that comment he looked directly at his cousins and his cousin nodded.”
I noticed that too and also thought it indicated that the cousin was in agreement with the grandfather acknowledgement. Perhaps Joe is generally kind to the grandkids. On the other hand, if Joe really is serious about getting his hands on more money and he knows that the MJ3 will ultimately be controlling the money, wouldn’t he show them that ‘love and support’ that Prince spoke of? And that’s only the most cynical view. To those who keep talking about how Joe being left out of the will means this or that…perhaps MJ just wanted his mom and kids to have that kind of financial power over his dad.
Anyway, to me it appeared that the kids’ remarks were scripted and they did seem to be reciting from memory (as _mjuls confirmed). However, it was refeshing to see ordinary-seeming kids on tv, obviously nervous and naturally stumbling, without the self-consciously precocious charm often seen in child stars of the same age. Hopefully, they will stay enough out of the limelight to remain that way.
Finally, a legal question for @_mjuls or anyone else who can answer. It doesn’t seem as if Joe has a leg to stand on with his claim against the estate, since he was left out of the will and apparently can’t produce evidence that MJ supported him directly in life, so it also seems to me that Roger’s assertion that Prince’s speech would affect these legal proceedings is far-fetched. Or is it?
February 3rd, 2010 at 12:46 am
About Joe’s money claims: Does it really matter, legally, if Michael supported him in life (which it seems he didn’t, except indirectly through Katherine)? I don’t see how the estate can actually have any legal rights to give him any money. They can up Katherine’s allowance with an eye to her supporting Joe, but isn’t it against the law to give money to someone who is left out of the will? If not, it doesn’t matter what we write in our wills.
February 3rd, 2010 at 1:25 am
The 3 men standing behind Prince and Paris was Michael’s nephews, Tito’s sons. And one of those sons working for Michael at the time of his death. I can remember reading something he either said or wrote about what it was like losting his Uncle. And from what he said it was clear that he loved his Uncle. So he will do all he can to make sure these kids are not harm, so any nod anyone saw probably was just a nod of support for them, saying you guys did a good job.
February 3rd, 2010 at 2:06 am
Whoa, this writer was way out of line by saying…
“Michael would have returned to being black before he would have let his kids have anything to do with Joe Jackson.”
What? Michael Jackson is black. This statement was not only disrespectful toward African American, Michael Jackson, it is racist. Michael Jackson, understood his black struggle in the entertainment industry in no uncertain terms.
It is up to us as Black Americans to research, celebrate, and inform others of our history. Our experience in this country is not defined solely by slavery, hardship, and misery. We also have enjoyed many triumphs, and have contributed mightily to American culture in many ways.
February 3rd, 2010 at 10:23 am
[...] Michael’s mother, is already receiving money from Michael’s estate. But his father, Joseph, is trying to pry $20,000 a month out of the estate now for an allowance. This is the same man who [...]
February 3rd, 2010 at 11:51 am
MJ has terrific kids and they did their best!!!! I was at the TV ceremony on SUnday too because I intern at the record company my step-dad works for & it was a VERY COOL experience. The description by that “Mjuls” person (sorry not sure if they are male or female) above is right. The kids monitor was messed up and they were still GREAT!!! THR is not all wrong. There was A LOT of talk by some REALLY famous people & others there about what went down behind the scenes with the kids, & how they are VERY concerned & worried that the kids are going to be pushed more & more into the spotlight now that MJ is dead. My boss even said that the man MJ left in charge, John Branka, is the best and he is doing everything he can to watch out for and protect the kids so that wont happen. So I’m glad they are protected. One of the associates said there was major drama at the Saturday dinner too but I was not there for that part. I was not too much of a MJ fan before because I was born after he was really famous & I dont know a lot about his Dad & stuff, but his Dad has a really bad rep and NONE of the Old Timers said anything nice about him so he must be bad news!!! And I know for sure the main reason the 3 guys (the nephews) that were with the kids were there was to shoomze for themselves because two of my co-workers & me were standing right behind them on line at the convention center and they were on the cell phone to someone talking about how the were still working on getting an invite to “We Are The World 25″. They seemed to be more into meeting & getting their photos taken with famous people then watching the kids. Plus, they were not with MJs kids the whole time. MJs kids spent most of the time they were there talking to some ladies they seemed to know. I did see Ceine Dion go over and hug one of the ladies and then the women brought Celine over to say hi to the kids. That’s all I know.
February 3rd, 2010 at 3:13 pm
Using a loaded term like “scripted” implies that Prince and Paris Jacksons were speaking someone else’s words and sentiments. From all accounts, the children wrote their tribute to their father themselves.
February 4th, 2010 at 6:40 pm
“There was A LOT of talk by some REALLY famous people & others there about what went down behind the scenes with the kids, & how they are VERY concerned & worried that the kids are going to be pushed more & more into the spotlight now that MJ is dead. ”
Where was the concern of these really famous people when Michael Jackson was being extorted, eviscerated, and dragged through the mud? They didn’t care what happened to the kids then. I’m not buying into the idea that anybody backstage at the Grammys was sincerely concerned about the Jackson children, other than their family members.
As for John Branca, he works for himself, not the children. (If he cares about them so much, why did he petition the judge for more of their money?) Roger and others rag on endlessly about Joe Jackson wanting what amounts to a pittance from Michael’s huge estate, but the estate’s lawyers are getting millions while Mrs. Jackson and the kids are living on an allowance and Social Security. If the really famous people at the Grammys feel a need to be concerned about something, that’s an issue they can latch on to.
February 4th, 2010 at 11:02 pm
Hi SIMBA – Your statement: “As for John Branca, he works for himself, not the children. (If he cares about them so much, why did he petition the judge for more of their money?)”
It’s really unfair. The fees requested by John Branca and John McClain from the Estate are appropriate and by no means excessive. In fact, under California law these gentlemen are entitled to a larger cut. They asked the court for less than what they are entitled to receive. (Had they asked for more the court would have approved the request.) The work they are doing is not easy and by all accounts they are doing a phenomenal job. The deals they have secured in the last seven months alone will see to the financial security of Michael Jackson’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. On this point, you can’t down them.
Hope all is well. Cheers.
February 5th, 2010 at 7:28 pm
Hi -mjuls- – I have no doubt that the work of administering Michael Jackson’s estate is a big job with attendant difficulties. I don’t necessarily believe that the money that has come in the last few months is due to the efforts of Branca and McClain – I think it’s mainly fans buying and re-buying MJ’s music. Other than the deal for This Is It, what have they negotiated on the estate’s behalf? (Honest question – I haven’t heard of anything else.)
But Betsy wrote “My boss even said that the man MJ left in charge, John Branka, is the best and he is doing everything he can to watch out for and protect the kids”. John Branca was not hired by MJ to look after his children. It’s an insult to the Jacksons to suggest that his children require protection from the family that has surrounded them with care and love for the last seven months.
February 6th, 2010 at 6:40 am
Simba: Branca is protecting the children financially. He and McClain are not simply supervising a few large bank accounts, they are navigating an empire, cutting a lot of deals. There is no way – none at all – that anyone but very skilled and experienced people could do that. And, like mjuls is saying, they are showing restraint in their salary demands. I think Michael would be very, very grateful for the job they are doing. He should have rehired Branca earlier, and things may have turned out quite differently.
February 7th, 2010 at 10:40 pm
Hi axon – the least that Michael Jackson deserved was lawyers who are skilled and experienced. So far Branca and McClain have done a mediocre job of protecting MJ’s interests – the Paul Anka dustup over the song for This Is It was inexcusable. I don’t think MJ would be grateful for that!
Making deals for MJ’s body of work is hardly a tough sell. Even at five per cent for their efforts, the lawyers will be lavishly compensated, in the millions. Ten per cent seems out of line.
I’m fascinated by the unquestioning admiration expressed for John Branca. He and John McClain may be upstanding hard-working whiz kids, or maybe not. After all, MJ did fire him, for cause. It’s not our business how MJ’s estate is being run. But lawyers are not businessmen. One hopes they are open to expert advice, at least until the Jackson children come of age and can make their own decisions about their father’s legacy.
February 8th, 2010 at 9:53 am
Why can’t a black man adopt/ raise white children? White people adopt/ raise black kids all the time!
February 10th, 2010 at 7:23 am
There’s an excellent article here on how AEG continues to exploit Michael and his children:
http://www.thecommentfactory.com/michael-jackson-is-still-exploited-in-death-aeg-and-dr-death-should-both-pay-2666
February 14th, 2010 at 7:08 am
Simba –
came back here by mistake now and saw your post. Branca is as a matter of fact a very good businessman. He negotiated the purchase of Neverland for Michael, he bought the Beatles catalogue for him, and he came up with the idea of financing the Thriller video by a “Making of…” documentary.
If I got it right Branca was fired at one point because Michael “wanted to try other representation”, then came back, then left by his own initiative in 2006 because he didn’t like the new people around Michael. (I wouldn’t like them either.) Of course no outsider would know for sure what really happened on those different occasions, but seems he was back now and so far it also seems he is doing a great job.
There’s a lot more to cutting deals than just having people wanting to do business with you. Just mapping Michael’s different assets and debts must have been a huge job – going through archives, finding receipts and contracts among hundreds of papers, and so on. I think going through my private finances is an ordeal, then imagine a 500 million dollar business with thousands of transactions.
February 14th, 2010 at 11:55 am
This guy is trying to make his writing stir up controversy – like a typical media person. As far as I know, it was the kids own decision to speak at the Grammys and they, themselves, wrote what they said.
It is totally false to say that Michael wouldn’t have wanted his kids to have anything to do with Joe Jackson and that Michael hated his father. Michael repeatedly said in public that he loved his father and forgave him. In his Oxford Union address he even said he finally realized that his father loved him but didn’t know how to express it.
And why put the word “Grandpa” in quotation marks? That’s saying Michael wasn’t really a father, but just a “father”.