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Michael Jackson’s Family Makes Funeral Plans as Fans Clamor for Tickets to L.A. Memorial

7/6/09, 9:02 am EST

Photo:Bouys/AFP/Getty
Michael Jackson will reportedly be buried at Hollywood Hills, California’s Forest Lawn Cemetery, CNN reports after speaking with law enforcement officials. While the family has not yet confirmed the report, LAPD assistant chief of staff Jim McDonnell said that the police were working with the family on “a package of events” tomorrow, July 7th, including the public memorial service at Los Angeles’ Staples Center. Police have already set up barricades outside of the Forest Lawn Cemetery, CNN reports, and a caravan of news vans have descended on the site following rumors of the service being held there began late last week.

AEG Live, the concert promoter behind Jackson’s This Is It! concerts in London and tomorrow’s memorial service, said that there would be no funeral procession. While it’s unclear whether Jackson’s body will be at the memorial service, his brother Jermaine Jackson said last week that the family was plotting a funeral service that morning of July 7th, likely before the 1 p.m. PST start of the memorial service.

Nearly 1.6 million people registered for the Staples Center memorial service, for which only 8,750 pairs of free tickets are available. Fans began being notified yesterday whether they should go to Los Angeles’ Dodgers Stadium to receive a pair of tickets to tomorrow’s service, and auction Website eBay is already stocked with people trying to sell their unique codes needed to pick up tickets. According to CNN, tickets will also be handed out today outside the Staples Center, using a wristband system to circumvent the scalpers. This Is It! co-director Kenny Ortega will direct the memorial service, while Grammy Awards producer Ken Ehrlich will produce the event. Jennifer Hudson will be among the performers, CNN confirms. TMZ adds that Mariah Carey will also perform the Jackson 5’s “I’ll Be There” at the memorial.

In other Jackson news, Madonna paid tribute to the King of Pop during her July 4th performance at London’s O2 Arena, where Jackson was to begin his run of 50 concerts next week. One of Madonna’s dancers dressed like Jackson and performed some of the Thriller singer’s signature dance moves to a medley of “Billie Jean” and “Wanna Be Startin’ Something.” “Let’s give it up to one of the greatest artists the world has ever known,” Madonna told the crowd. “Michael Jackson. Long Live The King!” Watch video of the tribute below:

Related Stories:

Michael Jackson Memorial Confirmed for July 7th in L.A., AEG Announces Ticket Information
Michael Jackson Rehearal Footage Shows Star Energetically Dancing
Michael Jackson’s Life, in Photos


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Comments

Michael Jackson | 7/6/2009, 10:33 am EST

He was a great performer

Anthea Van Rooyen

Coach Turner Atlanta Ga | 7/6/2009, 11:43 am EST

Long live the KING MJ Rest in peace

MB | 7/6/2009, 12:25 pm EST

I cant stand Madonna but Love MJ!

Lucy | 7/6/2009, 12:43 pm EST

Madonna’s wrong…he’s THE greatest artist…she probably didn’t want to exclude herself from that.

Anonymous | 7/6/2009, 1:24 pm EST

The greatest is John Lennon. That’s why she said ONE of the greatest.

Beverly Mathias | 7/6/2009, 1:41 pm EST

Michael will live forever through his music and the gifts he gave to all of us … Thank you Madonna’s for honoring him & blessing us.

khattar K. | 7/6/2009, 1:45 pm EST

you will be always with us – you are a legend Micheal

Whitney Clevenger | 7/6/2009, 1:52 pm EST

Michael Jackson will be greatly missed.

Sheri | 7/6/2009, 2:12 pm EST

I think it’s a mistake if Michael Jackson’s body is not at the memorial service. His fans need to have closure…for most of us we still cannot believe that he’s no longer with us…which is what a funeral (at least his closed casket) allows mourners to do. I really think Michael Jackson would have wanted it that way because he really loved his fans…and we loved him, no matter how much his critics tried to mar his image. He was and always will be THE greatest entertainer of all time…there will NEVER be another Michael Jackson….NEVER!

Brett | 7/6/2009, 2:33 pm EST

I see the hyperbole is in full swing. I saw a pr man on CNN Headline News last night ridiculously proclaim that MJ was “the Beatles, ELvis and Rolling Stones rolled up in one” and that he was “the King of pop, rock, and soul.” Please people, have some perspective. He was not the greatest artist of all time, nor the greatest entertainer of all time.

To Brett | 7/6/2009, 3:06 pm EST

Who was?

Steve | 7/6/2009, 3:24 pm EST

I have a Staples Center Memorial Voucher for sale – good for 2 tickets. Email me (ncstate99 at gmail dot com)

fatima | 7/6/2009, 4:01 pm EST

i think that a private funeral is best, although he was loving fans and spotlight, he was clearly a private person…feeling always lonely, as it says…
we should respect that, and i think this LA memorial is perfect, because his spirit will be alive and his music and contributions as an entertainer- what he truly gave to his fans- lives on…
RIP Dear Michael Jackson

Anonymous | 7/6/2009, 4:06 pm EST

Michael Jackson is the greatest entertainer to have ever lived period.The Beatles,Elvis and the Rollingstones have nothing on him.There was no blue print before Michael Jackson,and you will never get another one.Long live the true King.Michael Jackson,there were none before him there will be no more after him.I love you eternally Michael,save me a seat in the front row,I’ll see you again.

MB | 7/6/2009, 4:10 pm EST

Greatest Entertainer=Elvis
Greatest Artist=John Lennon
Greatest Dancer/Performer=Michael Jackson
Greatest Songwriter=Bob Dylan
Greatest Band=The Beatles
This is based on what I generally think the majority of the public thinks but I could be wrong

ed | 7/6/2009, 4:21 pm EST

greatest artist from 60’s-the beatles

70’s- led zepplin

80’s- michael jackson

90’s- nirvana

00’s- the white stripes

ed | 7/6/2009, 4:21 pm EST

greatest artist from 50’s-elvis

60’s- the beatles

70’s- led zepplin

80’s- michael jackson

90’s- nirvana

00’s- the white stripes

cathy | 7/6/2009, 4:42 pm EST

michael jackson was a wonderful person and singner dancer god bless your family

VERY SAD | 7/6/2009, 6:11 pm EST

I WAS A TEENAGER IN THE 80′S AND MICHAEL ALONG WITH PRINCE AND MADONNA WERE THE TOP ENTERTAINERS OF MY YOUTH AS FAR AS ROCK GOES. i AM DEEPLY SAD ABOUT MJ’S DEATH BECAUSE I AM A CHRISTAIN AND FOR ETERNAL LIFE THERE IS ONLY ONE NAME GIVEN THAT IS JESUS CHRIST. AND MICHAEL HAD ACCEPTED ALLAH AND NOT JESUS SO I KNOW HE IS’NT REASTING IN PEACE.

danielle | 7/6/2009, 6:35 pm EST

dear: michael Jackson you are my best friend ever have and I love you.

danielle | 7/6/2009, 6:46 pm EST

michael Jackson/7/72009,6:37 PM EST
you are the best and I love you so much tank,s you for your love and support.

danielle | 7/6/2009, 6:46 pm EST

michael Jackson/7/72009,6:37 PM EST
you are the best and I love you so much tank,s you for your love and support.

danielle | 7/6/2009, 6:46 pm EST

michael Jackson/7/72009,6:37 PM EST
you are the best and I love you so much tank,s you for your love and support.

danielle | 7/6/2009, 6:46 pm EST

michael Jackson/7/72009,6:37 PM EST
you are the best and I love you so much tank,s you for your love and support.

Anonymous | 7/6/2009, 6:49 pm EST

Talent like Michael Jackson only comes once in a lifetime there will never be another performer as talented as he was

Denise | 7/6/2009, 6:50 pm EST

Talent like Michael Jackson only comes once in a lifetime there will never be another performer as talented as he was

danielle | 7/6/2009, 6:57 pm EST

Michael Jackson is the best
My Favorite songs
Off the wall
thriller
ben
got to be there
you are not alone
rockin robin
lady in my life
Michael is the greatest entertainer of all time

Bella | 7/6/2009, 7:41 pm EST

“SAVE NEVERLAND”
Neverland should become the next Graceland — Why? because the fans need a place to go. Michael’s children and family need it as a reminder of what Michael stood for. How can they sell it to strangers? Can’t Michael’s entertainment friends – money from his estate – family – save NEVERLAND! They will more than get their money back in future earnings within the estate. Neverland needs to be saved so it can become the next GRACELAND. Michael should be buried there. Why? can’t money be raised for that?? It sickens me that Neverland will be sold and it won’t go to Michael Jackson’s estate. It is hard to believe his family and friends didn’t come to Michael’s rescue of Neverland Ranch. With his come-back tour – he could have easily repaid the loan back. His kids, fans, all of his family, all know that Michael Jackson loved Neverland. Can Michael Jackson’s estate purchase the house? There should be money coming in now to make the purchase and leave it with Michael Jackson’s family. Please — to the people in charge of Michael’s estate — BUY BACK NEVERLAND. I NEVER believed that Michael Jackson was a pedophile. I NEVER believed he would harm any child. How can this congressman or anyone else for that matter accuse someone of something that they did not actually see? Are they God? Do they have ESP? No! Michael Jackson is not like most people. Michael Jackson was not raised like most people. Michael Jackson was gifted beyond words can say. I just watched the congressman again on CNN and it sickens me that someone would go after someone like that in death. Michael Jackson was a Daddy, a son, a brother, and has millions of fans across the Globe. Michael Jackson cared about kids and that does NOT make you a pedophile. He was found innocent. MJ could afford to pay his accuser because he wanted to go on with his life. Look at what happened to those people. That money was come by with lies and deceit. It is heartbreaking that so many turned their backs on MJ and he felt he had to hide out all of those years. We missed out on so much. Michael Jackson backed up his love for children by creating Neverland for all to enjoy. There were children who were ill, in wheelchairs, and all children were welcomed to Neverland. It was Michael’s home. It was his children’s home. So what…he had locks to his room – anyone would with as many people that were around Neverland. There were nannies, cooks, security guards, and other staff. He made a difference and cared enough about kids to create that magical place. The congressman and others talk like they know exactly what went on. Are they God? Michael Jackson left 20% to children’s charities. Will the congressman leave 20% of his estate to children’s charities? I grew up on Michael Jackson’s music. He made mistakes – we all do. The documentary on MJ was an attack on his character. It was horrible. MJ was honest and he paid the price. Do you think a real pedophile would be as honest? We lost out on Michael Jackson for all of these years because of what people thought may have happened. He was found innocent. It sickens me a congressman would attack his character after his death. Michael Jackson cared about all people – including our military. The secret door in his room was for safety. Many celebrities and even normal people have things like that in their homes. He was a world celebrity and it should not be considered anything but normal in his situation. I feel bad for MJ’s kids. I’m sure they miss him terribly. I’m sure he didn’t expect to die. Have some compassion people! MJ had compassion and it showed. It wasn’t fake – do you think so many people would have followed him if it was fake? There will never be another Michael Jackson. I don’t have all the answers. No one does. Just let the man RIP. The most criminal people and liars in society today come from politicians. Michael Jackson was a child himself. He never got a break. I for one am heart-broken over this great loss. Take away the celebrity – the man helped people and was genuine and kind. He had a caring soul. He was sensitive. He had compassion. We need more people like that in society today. I am educated and in my 40s now and grew up with Michael Jackson’s music. I remember watching his videos over and over again…for dance routines when I was a cheerleader in high school. We always used Michael Jackson’s music. I for one will always miss Michael Jackson. I hope Neverland will forever become a tribute to Michael Jackson and his children. NEVERLAND: What a beautiful and peaceful place! ~ Lubbock, Texas

Cj | 7/6/2009, 9:28 pm EST

Rolling Stone sould have a 50 word limit on these posts. When I see a post that’s a foot long, I don’t even bother to read it. Take your insipid baby drool and go write a book.

anonymous | 7/6/2009, 10:09 pm EST

people, there are other sites to have debates on his religion…this site, i believe, is to comment on paying a tribute and respects to MJ…show respect

melai of PI | 7/6/2009, 10:16 pm EST

Michael Jackson…. waaa i cant help it but cried a lot… i will miss you so much and you will always be in my hear forever and ever… rest in peace… love you forever muahhhhhh

r lakshmi chetan | 7/6/2009, 11:43 pm EST

micheal u r great in the hearts of entire world take rest in peace atleast now

ELY | 7/7/2009, 12:55 am EST

You were my idol Michael. You were part of my young life. Everytime I see you dancing, singing those beautiful songs, you take me to wonderful times I lived. Rest in peace Michael, KING OF POP.

Baidha | 7/7/2009, 1:54 am EST

When I heard Michael died I cried like a baby and was sad and depressed for days refusing to accept the fact that he was gone and today once again hearing of his burial brings back the reality again and sadness…I love you Michael may your soul rest in peace

Anonymous | 7/7/2009, 3:15 am EST

For the fans that loved MJ, the king of pop as I did, this is my tribute to MJ, hope you enjoy, can you guess how many songs there is and this is only a few?

Michael, I Remember The Time you said I’ll Be There and told the Tabloid Junkie to Leave You Alone because they are Dangerous but that’s Human Nature, you said They Really Don’t Care About Us, they treated you like a Smooth Criminal, and yes you’re BAD, working Day and Night putting out some mega hits like ,Billy Jean,Thriller,Dirty Diana, We Are the World as you looked at the Man In The Mirror in Black and White, but I Wanna be Startin Somethin, I Can’t Help It, Just Can’t Stop Loving You for You Are My Life,
I’ve Got To Be There, You Are Not Alone, You Rock My World but although You are Gone To Soon, there’s a Jam session in heaven and others like James Brown, Aaliyah, Left Eye,Isaac Hayes, Gerald Levert, Luther Vandross, Barry White, Tupac and Biggie are going Off The Wall but I will Rock With You and your memories forever!

Beverly | 7/7/2009, 3:16 am EST

For the fans that loved MJ, the king of pop as I did, this is my tribute to MJ, hope you enjoy, can you guess how many songs there is and this is only a few?

Michael, I Remember The Time you said I’ll Be There and told the Tabloid Junkie to Leave You Alone because they are Dangerous but that’s Human Nature, you said They Really Don’t Care About Us, they treated you like a Smooth Criminal, and yes you’re BAD, working Day and Night putting out some mega hits like ,Billy Jean,Thriller,Dirty Diana, We Are the World as you looked at the Man In The Mirror in Black and White, but I Wanna be Startin Somethin, I Can’t Help It, Just Can’t Stop Loving You for You Are My Life,
I’ve Got To Be There, You Are Not Alone, You Rock My World but although You are Gone To Soon, there’s a Jam session in heaven and others like James Brown, Aaliyah, Left Eye,Isaac Hayes, Gerald Levert, Luther Vandross, Barry White, Tupac and Biggie are going Off The Wall but I will Rock With You and your memories forever!

CAROLYN | 7/7/2009, 3:19 pm EST

MICHAEL JACKSON WAS A GREAT PERFORMER BUT WATCHING HIS FUNERAL ESPECIALLY WHEN AL SHARPTON WAS GIVING HIS SO CALLED EULOGY BUT AT MY HOUSE WE WERE DISAPPOINTED THAT A COUPLE WHITES WERE ASK TO TALK. I HAVE 5 AFRICAN-AMERICANS AND THEY SAID THAT IT SOUND THAT IT WAS JUST FOR AFRICAN-AMERICAN EVEN AL SHARPTON DIDN’T WON’T THE WHITE PEOPLE THERE

Truff | 7/7/2009, 4:04 pm EST

Anyone remember when this guy touched lil boys?? Would we celebrate the death of a pedophile in prison?? Nope. This world is ridiculous sometimes.

Kindest Regards | 7/7/2009, 6:52 pm EST

MICHAEL JACKSON WILL BE GREATLY MISSED!

JACKSON’S MUSIC IS SPECTACULAR!
________________ _____
SCANDALS! SCANDALS! SCANDALS!

DANGER! DANGER! DANGER!

GEORGE W. BUSH IS AN EXTREMELY DANGEROUS CRIMINAL STALKER!

George W. Bush continuously criminally stalked Margie Schoedinger to the point that she could not get away from it, and she committed suicide in desperation to escape: he murdered her.

“In her suit, Margie Schoedinger states that George W. Bush committed sexual crimes against her, organized harassment and moral pressure on her, her family members and close relatives and friends. As Schoedinger said, she was strongly recommended to keep her mouth shut. . . . Furthermore, she alleges that George Bush ordered to show pressure on her to the point, when she commits suicide” (blog of drizzten).

“George [Bush is personally complicit] in the death (murder to be precise) of my friend Margie Schoedinger in September of 2003. Determining the exact whereabouts and contacts of . . . George Bush on September 21 thru 22, 2003, should be entirely lacking in difficulty” (Leola McConnell—Nevada Progressive Democratic Candidate for U.S. Senate in 2010).

McConnell is correct: George W. Bush applying pressure (continuously criminally stalking Margie Schoedinger) purposefully to force Schoedinger to commit suicide does in fact constitute murder where it culminated in her death.

Bush’s method of murdering Schoedinger cannot exist in a vacuum: he must have murdered other people in the same way.

While he was president, actually, George W. Bush continuously criminally stalked numerous people to the point that they could not get away from it, and they committed suicide in desperation to escape: he murdered them. During Bush’s presidency, of course Bush would have desired to kill people whom he hated or get them out of his way. Insofar as Bush was clearly capable of murdering Schoedinger—even in “broad daylight”—and is clearly capable of getting away with it, in consideration of common sense and the laws of human nature, Bush of course murdered numerous people in the disgusting way he murdered Schoedinger. However, the vast majority of such scandalous information will never come out (the grisly details are typically hard to substantiate). A prosecutor really can lawfully charge a former president with murdering one or more people in the disgusting way Bush murdered Schoedinger. The American people unfortunately live in a world where evil presidents can murder any number of people—figuratively—with a wave of a magic wand and get away with it.

(There are thousands of copies of the information above on the Internet. It exists very extensively in all major search engines. Please feel free to go to any major search engine, type “GEORGE W. BUSH IS AN EXTREMELY DANGEROUS CRIMINAL STALKER” or “George W. Bush continuously criminally stalked Margie Schoedinger to the point that she could not get away from it, and she committed suicide in desperation to escape: he murdered her” or “George W. Bush applying pressure (continuously criminally stalking Margie Schoedinger) purposefully to force Schoedinger to commit suicide does in fact constitute murder where it culminated in her death” or “George W. Bush continuously criminally stalked numerous people to the point that they could not get away from it, and they committed suicide in desperation to escape: he murdered them,” hit “Enter,” and find innumerable results.)

(Please feel free to see my “GEORGE W. BUSH IS THE WORST PRESIDENT IN U.S. HISTORY” blog.)
_____________________

Andrew Wang
(a.k.a. “THE DISSEMINATING MACHINE”)
B.S., Summa Cum Laude, 1996
Messiah College, Grantham, PA
Lower Merion High School, Ardmore, PA, 1993

Cynthia | 7/11/2009, 3:03 am EST

Michael,when the first i hear u that u leave the world…i actually wanna cry but i say to myself must stay happy go on…because i know when u leave the world,u also wanna us to stay happy and go on…i also know that u have do your best to stay so long to be a best singer go on…so now u may rest in peace atleast now…i LOVE u Michael Jackson,KING OF POP…will suppport u and will miss u so much…mwahzzzz…this kiss not just from me,is everyone that are falling in love with you…remember this kiss and u will feel YOUR NOT ALONE atleast…

louise conlo | 7/13/2009, 1:21 pm EST

RIP MICHAEL JACKSON
WE WILL MISS U

Louise | 7/13/2009, 1:24 pm EST

MJ waz the best in the world
RIP

Nisha | 7/17/2009, 4:30 am EST

We will truly MISS you MJ…

You are the BEST and will remain in our hearts forever…

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