Victory Snatched From The Jaws of Defeat?

Michael Jackson has, at the eleventh hour, managed to stop the auction of Neverland by agreeing a deal with Fortress (the holders of a $24M charge over Neverland).

Jackson's lawyer, L. Londell McMillan, told The Associated Press that Jackson has worked out a confidential agreement with Fortress Investment Group LLC allowing him to retain ownership of the estate.

However there are two unaswered, and obvious questions.

• Given that Jackson is in dire financial straits, he hasn't stepped foot in Neverland for some considerable period of time and that the place is shuttered and rotting how long will he keep it?



• More importantly, why does he want to keep it?

Time will tell.

Jackson To Move To Barnstaple?

The media are awash with rumours that Michael Jackson is planning to move to Barnstaple, in Devon UK.

Seemingly Jackson is to move into his brother Tito's new house.

Tito is quoted:

"We hope it will be a family hideaway where my brothers and sisters can escape media attention when we need to.

I can confirm that he [Michael] has been to Barnstaple on private visits in recent years along with my brother Jermaine and a few other Jackson siblings.

My family love North Devon and the wonderful countryside and friendly people. I am looking forward to living in Barnstaple and I hope the Barnstaple public will respect our family's privacy.

Michael likes North Devon, too, as no one bothers him."

Matt Fiddes a friend and celeb bodyguard is also quoted:

"Tito spoke with Michael on the phone the other night and all the family are certain that this is the area where they want to find a UK family hideaway.

Tito is staying with me until the weekend but if everything goes through OK, he will soon be able to use the home as a base from which to develop his career in the UK."

It is alleged that Jackson has made offers on two properties, following several viewings in villages on the outskirts of Barnstaple.

Why, if the Jackson's claim that they want a "hideaway" and privacy from the media etc, do they then embark on a publicity drive about this move?

iTune Story Denied

Sony/ATV Music Publishing, the joint venture owned by Sony and Michael Jackson, the owners of the rights to the majority of The Beatles music catalog has denied newspaper stories that The Beatles catalogue would soon be available on iTunes.

A spokeswoman for Sony/ATV Music Publishing said that the reports are "untrue."

Brit Buyout of Neverland?

The Sun reports that two British property tycoons from Newcastle, Liam Collins and David Bone, have offered to buy Neverland then rent it back to Michael Jackson.

David Bone said:

"We really want to see Jacko back on his feet. He's had a real hard time of it."

Does Jackson have the money, or desire, to rent it back?