Michael's Mom Gets Custody of Jackson Kids

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»

(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»

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.

Kids getting back to normal at hotel that used to be home

(NEWSER) - Michael Jackson’s three children spent the weekend at their old home—the Palms Hotel in Las Vegas, where they lived with the King of Pop briefly last year, People reports. This time around, Prince, Paris, and Blanket were joined by grandma Katherine and three friends, and spent a few hours yesterday playing—and dancing—at the pool and sipping virgin daiquiris. Uncle Jermaine joined them later for dinner at N9NE Steakhouse. More»

Plus, the family argues over burial, will

(NEWSER) - Joe Jackson spoke to Larry King last night—in an interview King made sure to affirm was not paid for—and reaffirmed his belief Michael’s death involved “foul play,” denied any plans to put his three grandchildren into show business, and called claims he abused Michael “bull. I’ve never been abusive to him, never have. Michael was never beaten by me, I've never beaten at all.” More: More»