Jackson in Talks for Live Shows

(NEWSER) - Hundreds of fans are camped out in the front of the O2 arena in London where Michael Jackson was to begin his 50-concert stand today, the BBC reports. “I want to feel a bit closer,” said one of the approximately 600 fans. “We’ve been reminiscing and sharing memories with everyone. When more people arrive there will be quite a party atmosphere.” More»

Photog, friend reveals Jackson's excitement at performing again

(NEWSER) - The photographer who captured Michael Jackson’s image at his last rehearsal reveals the singer was upbeat and energetic on his final night. “He was totally there—100% there in fact,” Kevin Mazur tells the Mirror. “You would never suspect this would have ever happened—especially after his performance.” He says Michael told him, “I feel so alive—can you feel it? This is where I belong.” More»

Plaintiff demands singer play US show or cough up $40m

(NEWSER) - A New Jersey promoter has filed a lawsuit seeking to prevent Michael Jackson from starting his 50-concert London marathon next month, the Telegraph reports. The singer contracted to play a reunion concert in the US this summer with other members of the Jackson family before performing anywhere else, the suit charges. The promoter is demanding Jackson pay $40 million for breach of contract. More»

Contract for family concert series puts comeback in question

(NEWSER) - London may never see Michael Jackson’s much-ballyhooed comeback concerts, TMZ reports. A contract Jackson signed for a reunion tour with his sister and brothers forbade him from making another concert deal for 18 months. Lawyers for that tour say Jackson’s London series violates the pact. Jackson’s position is that he didn’t sign the contract personally, but since his agent did, that argument might not hold water. More»

Forget the weirdness, it's all about nostalgia

(NEWSER) - You might not let Michael Jackson babysit your kid, but should that stop you from indulging in the “sweet elixir of nostalgia” of his concerts this summer? Not according to Matt Stewart, whose reaction to Jacko’s concert announcement was “pure, liquid joy,” he writes for the Huffington Post. He promptly bought tickets and “did a little dance when the confirmation email came through.” More»