More about: Michael Jackson
Family says...
The body of Michael Jackson will not go on public or private display at Neverland, his family have said.
The decision contradicts earlier reports that fans would be able to pay their final respects to the singer at his former home.
In a statement issued through their new PR company, the family added that plans are underway for a public memorial the star.
These are expected to be announced later, the statement said.
Yesterday, it was claimed Jackson’s body would be returned to the Santa Barbra ranch from his family home Los Angeles – a journey of 130 miles – on Friday.
It would then be go on display until a private memorial service was held on Sunday, it was claimed.
But the Jackson’s family’s statement tonight has triggered widespread confusion over where the singer will now be buried.
To some, a return to Neverland, which became Jackson’s landmark home in 1987, had seemed inevitable.
Many fans had already begun to descend on the property expecting to be able to view the star’s body.
Workers, including gardeners, had also been seen arriving at the ranch throughout the day.
As previously reported on Gigwise, Jackson’s will was filed at Los Angeles Superior Court earlier.
The five-page document names the star’s mother, Katherine, as guardian to his three children.
It also states that Jackson wanted his estate to be given to the Jackson Family Trust Fund.
Michael Jackson fans pay tribute
Atmosphere as Michael Jackson fans queue for Apollo tribute
Michael Jackson impersonator Prince Gitty with fans
Atmosphere as Michael Jackson fans queue for Apollo tribute
Atmosphere as Michael Jackson fans queue for Apollo tribute
Atmosphere as Michael Jackson fans queue for Apollo tribute
Young Michael Jackson impersonator Shemar Williams
Atmosphere as Michael Jackson fans queue for Apollo tribute
Atmosphere as Michael Jackson fans queue for Apollo tribute
Atmosphere as Michael Jackson fans queue for Apollo tribute
Atmosphere as Michael Jackson fans queue for Apollo tribute
Fans gather inside the Apollo Theatre
Fans gather inside the Apollo Theatre
Fans gather inside the Apollo Theatre
Michael Jackson tributes inside the Apollo Theatre foyer
Michael Jackson tributes inside the Apollo Theatre foyer
Michael Jackson tributes inside the Apollo Theatre foyer
Fans gather inside the Apollo Theatre
Chubb Rock addresses fans
Democratic politician Charles Rangel speaks to the Michael Jackson faithful
Reverend Al Sharpton gives a moving speech
Iconic film producer Spike Lee claps in Michael Jackson's honour
President of the New York Apollo Theatre, Jonelle Procope, speaks of Michael Jackson
Apollo Theatre Michael Jackson tributes
Apollo Theatre Michael Jackson tributes
Apollo Theatre Michael Jackson tributes
More about: Michael Jackson
Photo: WENN.com
