Michael Jackson's Ex-Wife Rubbishes 'Pay-Off' Reports

Debbie Rowe, the mother of Michael Jackson's two eldest children, has denied reports she agreed to drop a claim for their custody in return for a financial settlement.

On Tuesday, the New York Post claimed Rowe had reached a $4million deal with the star's mother, Katherine, that would see her forfeit parental rights.

But Rowe's lawyer, Eric George, said the newspaper claims were “blatant falsehoods” and called for an immediate retraction.

He added that Rowe "has not and will not" give up her parental rights to Prince Michael, 12, and Paris Katherine, 11.

There has been confusion over whether Rowe would launch a guardianship bid ever since Jackson's death on June 25. 

Rowe, who divorced from the star in 1999, dropped a previous attempt gain custody in 2006 after reaching a private settlement.

But in an interview shortly after the singer's death, she said: “I want my children back.”

In his last will – dated 2002 – Jackson signalled his intention for Katherine to be given custody of his children, who also include seven-year-old Prince Michael II, should she outlive him.

He also named Diana Ross as a back-up guardian should his mother become incapable of looking after them.

In a statement, the New York Post vowed the stand behind its claims.

Michael Jackson - The Final Farewell