Rowe Drops Bid for Jacko's Kids ... for $4M

Rowe's relationship with children has been sporadic since 1999

(NEWSER) - The battle for Michael Jackson’s three children is heating up: Ex-wife Debbie Rowe is considering a custody bid, and another alleged ex-wife has come out of the woodwork. Rowe, who gave birth to the two oldest, has been in and out of their lives since 1999, and once said if Jackson died she would not want the children back, adding, “I am sure he has a wonderful person in mind to take care of them,” reports the Los Angeles Times. More»

(NEWSER) - A judge signed off today on last week’s unofficial custody arrangement for Michael Jackson’s children, appointing Katherine Jackson as the permanent guardian of all three, the AP reports. Jackson’s mother, 79, was the first choice given in his will to raise the children, and is the only person to formally petition for custody. Paris and Prince reportedly signed statements saying they wished to remain with their grandmother. More»

Rowe will have visitation, sources say

(NEWSER) - The custody battle between Katherine Jackson and Debbie Rowe is over, sources tell CBS News. The Jackson matriarch has been awarded full custody of Michael Jackson’s three children, and Rowe will have visitation rights—but receive no money. “It’s an agreement for the best interests of the children. This is not a money deal,” says Jackson’s attorney, adding that Katherine's husband, Joe, will not be involved with raising Prince Michael, Paris, and Blanket. More»

Plus, investigation turns criminal, doctor flees California

(NEWSER) - Let the Michael Jackson lawsuits begin. Ex-wife Debbie Rowe filed a defamation suit against Rebecca White, Radar reports. White who claimed to be a friend of Rowe's, publicized an e-mail in which she said Rowe wrote, “Do I want the kids? Hell no.” Rowe denies being friends with White and writing the e-mail—and White has been accused of fabricating stories before. More: More»

Plus, ubiquitous biographer publishes another shocking book, more

(NEWSER) - Joe Jackson wants to turn his grandchildren into the “Jackson 3,” Michael’s biographer tells the Sun. “Joe wants the children to go on a world tour in 2010. He has also already offered recording contracts to two of Michael’s kids,” Ian Halperin tells the tabloid. “He wants to exploit the kids the same way he did Michael.” More:

• Halperin—who else?—has a new book out, and it includes allegations that Michael Jackson was gay, according to the Sun: “The very first time he had sex with me he said, ‘The King of Pop’s going to lick your lollipop,’” says one alleged lover.