Auction Cancelled

In a remarkable volte face, Julien's Auctions have cancelled the auction (scheduled for 22-25 April) of Michael Jackson memorabilia from his Neverland and agreed to return all the items to Jackson.

A joint statement from Jackson spokesman Tohme R Tohme and auction organiser Darren Julien notes that the exhibition of the items will continue until April 25.

Adding:

"there was so much interest from so many of Jackson's fans that instead of putting the items in the hands of private collectors, Tohme and Julien's Auctions have made arrangements that will allow the collection to be shared with and enjoyed by Jackson's fans for many years to come."

Seemingly an amicable solution has been found. Julien, president and chief executive of Julien's Auctions, said:

"We reached a resolution and we're very happy about it. It allows Michael to retain ownership of his possessions. He contracted us to conduct the auction and had a change of mind for whatever reason. And we honour and respect that. We're very happy with the outcome."

It is estimated that Julien's spent $2M on organising/cancelling the sale.

Echoes of Xanadu - Citizen Jackson's Memorabilia

Julien's Auctions, the organisers of the forthcoming auction of Michael Jackson memorabilia from Neverland (scheduled for 22-25 April), have held a press preview.

Martin Nolan, speaking of the ongoing legal action by Jackson, said that the auction would proceed.

Amongst the "bric a brac" are costumes, antique furniture, lifesize statues of superheroes and Star Wars villains, from Batman to Darth Vader, and a fully equipped computer game arcade.