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Was Jackson Healthy or On the Brink? Yes.
Drug-addled or ready to rock, his inner-circle tells it from all sides
By Drew Nelles
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Posted Jul 12, 09 2:43 PM CDT
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(Newser)
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Was Michael Jackson happy and healthy, or drug-addled and depressed in his final days? Depends who you ask. The AP compiles a list of contradictory reports from the star’s inner circle:
- Concert promoter Randy Phillips initially told reporters Jackson was "a healthy, vibrant human being,” but later said he hired an attendant whose sole job was reminding the singer to eat.
- Dermatologist Dr. Arnold Klein says Jackson “was very happy,” but confirms he went to rehab for a painkiller addiction. Klein also says Jackson suffered from lupus and vitiligo, a skin disorder.
- Several close friends, including self-help guru Deepak Chopra, say they confronted Jackson about his drug abuse. Chopra says he last spoke with Jackson about the issue just six months ago.
- Singer Akon says his famous mentor reminded him to stay healthy, asking him, “What are you doing out there on the road? Are you eating? Are you exercising?”