ITV and Simon Cowell have signed up Michael Jackson to appear on the British version of X-Factor. On the assumption that all goes to plan, Jackson's first appearance will be in early December. He will be a mentor to the show's contestants.
An anonymous source is quoted in the UK newspaper, The Sun, saying:
"We've got some huge names but Michael Jackson really is a sensational signing. He is a truly global, worldwide superstar. And this will be his first TV appearance in Britain since the Martin Bashir interview. Given his background with ITV, it's even more astonishing that he agreed to do it."
The question is, will this really happen?
Showing posts with label Martin Bashir. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Martin Bashir. Show all posts
Monday, October 08, 2007
Friday, January 20, 2006
Geller Falls Out With Jackson
Michael Jackson's alleged anti-Semitic comments have lost him a friend.
His friendship with mystic spoon-bender showman Uri Geller is now on the rocks.
Geller, who is of Jewish descent, is reportedly disgusted by reports that Jackson made anti Semitic comments.
Jackson allegedly called Jewish people "leeches" on a voicemail message.
Geller, who was best man for Jackson in 2001, claims that their friendship is at an end.
Quote:
"I don't want to hear from Michael Jackson ever again.
I'm Jewish, I was born in Israel, and I will never forgive him."
It should be remembered that Geller persuaded Jackson to do the now infamous Martin Bashir documentary, which was the catalyst for the child molestation trial.
His friendship with mystic spoon-bender showman Uri Geller is now on the rocks.
Geller, who is of Jewish descent, is reportedly disgusted by reports that Jackson made anti Semitic comments.
Jackson allegedly called Jewish people "leeches" on a voicemail message.
Geller, who was best man for Jackson in 2001, claims that their friendship is at an end.
Quote:
"I don't want to hear from Michael Jackson ever again.
I'm Jewish, I was born in Israel, and I will never forgive him."
It should be remembered that Geller persuaded Jackson to do the now infamous Martin Bashir documentary, which was the catalyst for the child molestation trial.
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Bashir Becomes Anchor
Martin Bashir, whose documentary about Michael Jackson was the cause of his recent child molestation trial, will be one of the three anchors for ABC's "Nightline".
The new "Nightline" team will comprise Martin Bashir, White House correspondent Terry Moran and "Primetime" anchor Cynthia McFadden.
The first broadcast will be on November 28th.
The new "Nightline" team will comprise Martin Bashir, White House correspondent Terry Moran and "Primetime" anchor Cynthia McFadden.
The first broadcast will be on November 28th.
Thursday, June 16, 2005
Jackson To Sue Sneddon?
Tom Mesereau, Michael Jackson's defence attorney, is reportedly urging Jackson to go back to court and sue Tom Sneddon for "malicious prosecution".
I would have though that the best thing for Jackson would be to get away from lawyers and courts for a while, and to make an attempt to rebuild his brand.
I note that there are also rumours that he may sue Martin Bashir, in London, for his 2003 documentary.
Mesereau made his suggestion, about suing Sneddon, on Larry King Live.
Quote:
"Do I think this was done maliciously and unfairly? Absolutely...I think that he was treated in a way that no one else would have been similarly treated. It's because he's a mega-celebrity."
Adding:
"I think their biggest problem was they were not objective about their case, they believed things they wanted to believe, they tried to prove theories that were absurd and they tried to demonise Michael Jackson."
Sometimes though, even in victory, it is better to get on with your life and let the dust settle.
I would have though that the best thing for Jackson would be to get away from lawyers and courts for a while, and to make an attempt to rebuild his brand.
I note that there are also rumours that he may sue Martin Bashir, in London, for his 2003 documentary.
Mesereau made his suggestion, about suing Sneddon, on Larry King Live.
Quote:
"Do I think this was done maliciously and unfairly? Absolutely...I think that he was treated in a way that no one else would have been similarly treated. It's because he's a mega-celebrity."
Adding:
"I think their biggest problem was they were not objective about their case, they believed things they wanted to believe, they tried to prove theories that were absurd and they tried to demonise Michael Jackson."
Sometimes though, even in victory, it is better to get on with your life and let the dust settle.
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
Fallout
Martin Bashir, the journalist who fronted the infamous 2003 documentary about Michael Jackson, now faces the possibility of a lawsuit from Michael Jackson.
Jackson began legal moves against Bashir and Granada, which made the documentary, in 2003 claiming breach of confidence.
It was claimed that Bashir broke a promise to allow Jackson to vet the programme before it was broadcast.
Jackson also said Bashir reneged on an agreement not to film his children without the masks they wear in public. A High Court action was due to start in late 2003, but was halted after Jackson was arrested and charged with child abuse.
Jackson began legal moves against Bashir and Granada, which made the documentary, in 2003 claiming breach of confidence.
It was claimed that Bashir broke a promise to allow Jackson to vet the programme before it was broadcast.
Jackson also said Bashir reneged on an agreement not to film his children without the masks they wear in public. A High Court action was due to start in late 2003, but was halted after Jackson was arrested and charged with child abuse.
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Jackson's Children Not His Own
It is being reported that Paris, Prince and Blanket (an absurd name) are not Michael Jackson's children.
The "Outtakes Tape", the video that Jackson's cameraman Hamid Moslehi made of Martin Bashir, was discussed between the prosecution, defence and judge in Jackson's trial.
In the tape Jackson tells Bashir that his children genetically his, and that he had slept with Debbie Rowe to conceive Prince and Paris. Regarding Blanket, he seemingly used a surrogate whose egg had been fertilised with his own sperm.
Defence council Sanger is reported to have said during the discussions:
"The circumstances that relate to the birth of the children wouldn't be admitted for the truth of the matter. Only his love of the children."
District Attorney Tom Sneddon had threatened to show that Jackson lied about the paternity.
Not that showing Jackson had not fathered the children would prove that he was a child molester.
The "Outtakes Tape", the video that Jackson's cameraman Hamid Moslehi made of Martin Bashir, was discussed between the prosecution, defence and judge in Jackson's trial.
In the tape Jackson tells Bashir that his children genetically his, and that he had slept with Debbie Rowe to conceive Prince and Paris. Regarding Blanket, he seemingly used a surrogate whose egg had been fertilised with his own sperm.
Defence council Sanger is reported to have said during the discussions:
"The circumstances that relate to the birth of the children wouldn't be admitted for the truth of the matter. Only his love of the children."
District Attorney Tom Sneddon had threatened to show that Jackson lied about the paternity.
Not that showing Jackson had not fathered the children would prove that he was a child molester.
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
Gavin Arvizo Denies Sex
Irene Peters, a social worker from the LA County Department of Children and Family Services, gave testimony at the Michael Jackson trial yesterday.
She said that she had met privately with Gavin Arvizo and his family, during the time they claim they were held prisoner by Jackson, and they praised Jackson and denied any sexual abuse.
Peters said that she had met Janet Arvizo, and her three children in February 2003, after the Martin Bashir documentary was shown on TV.
Quote:
"I asked him if he had ever been sexually abused by Michael Jackson and he became upset. He said, 'Everybody thinks Michael Jackson sexually abused me. He never touched me'..."
Adding that Gavin told her Jackson "was very kind to him and treated him like a father."
Peters also said that she separately interviewed Janet Arvizo, Gavin's brother Star and his older sister, and all of them praised Jackson. She said Mrs Arvizo even gave Jackson credit for her son's victory over cancer.
It seems that Janet Arvizo initially asked if the social worker could do her interview at Jackson's estate.
So much for being held captive!
Peters said:
"She denied all allegations of general neglect...I asked her about the relationship with Michael Jackson. She went on to say he was like a father to her children and she felt he was responsible for helping (Gavin) to survive his cancer, for his cancer to go into remission. I asked her if the kids ever slept in Michael Jackson's room and she said no, that never happened."
Peters said that the Arvizo family never mentioned being held against their will.
She said that she had met privately with Gavin Arvizo and his family, during the time they claim they were held prisoner by Jackson, and they praised Jackson and denied any sexual abuse.
Peters said that she had met Janet Arvizo, and her three children in February 2003, after the Martin Bashir documentary was shown on TV.
Quote:
"I asked him if he had ever been sexually abused by Michael Jackson and he became upset. He said, 'Everybody thinks Michael Jackson sexually abused me. He never touched me'..."
Adding that Gavin told her Jackson "was very kind to him and treated him like a father."
Peters also said that she separately interviewed Janet Arvizo, Gavin's brother Star and his older sister, and all of them praised Jackson. She said Mrs Arvizo even gave Jackson credit for her son's victory over cancer.
It seems that Janet Arvizo initially asked if the social worker could do her interview at Jackson's estate.
So much for being held captive!
Peters said:
"She denied all allegations of general neglect...I asked her about the relationship with Michael Jackson. She went on to say he was like a father to her children and she felt he was responsible for helping (Gavin) to survive his cancer, for his cancer to go into remission. I asked her if the kids ever slept in Michael Jackson's room and she said no, that never happened."
Peters said that the Arvizo family never mentioned being held against their will.
Thursday, May 12, 2005
Outakes
The jury in the Michael Jackson trial were shown outakes of the Bashir documentary.
In these, Jackson spoke of his innocent love of children, his overwhelming loneliness and his anger at critics who called him "wacko."
The footage was shot by Jackson's personal videographer, during the Jackson's interview with British journalist Martin Bashir for the documentary "Living With Michael Jackson."
Quote from the video:
"Everything I do is inspired by children. If it weren't for children I'd throw in the towel. I'd have no reason to live...I haven't been betrayed or deceived by children. Adults have let me down,".
Bashir was heard to verbally gush to Jackson, quote:
"My life, my romantic development was shaped by your records..some of the most beautiful pop music we have ever heard."
Jackson took a pop at his critics in the video:
"They are ignorant and I am prejudiced against ignorance,...They called me weird, strange, wacko. They said I'm a girl, a homosexual ... it is jealousy...I am Peter Pan in my heart."
Adding:
"I used to be very lonely, you have no idea..I would walk up to strangers and say will you be my friend."
That doesn't ring true, if anyone had been approached by Jackson in this manner it would have been spread across the tabloids within 24 hours.
Jackson said:
"I feel pure and good inside...taking a good shower."
In these, Jackson spoke of his innocent love of children, his overwhelming loneliness and his anger at critics who called him "wacko."
The footage was shot by Jackson's personal videographer, during the Jackson's interview with British journalist Martin Bashir for the documentary "Living With Michael Jackson."
Quote from the video:
"Everything I do is inspired by children. If it weren't for children I'd throw in the towel. I'd have no reason to live...I haven't been betrayed or deceived by children. Adults have let me down,".
Bashir was heard to verbally gush to Jackson, quote:
"My life, my romantic development was shaped by your records..some of the most beautiful pop music we have ever heard."
Jackson took a pop at his critics in the video:
"They are ignorant and I am prejudiced against ignorance,...They called me weird, strange, wacko. They said I'm a girl, a homosexual ... it is jealousy...I am Peter Pan in my heart."
Adding:
"I used to be very lonely, you have no idea..I would walk up to strangers and say will you be my friend."
That doesn't ring true, if anyone had been approached by Jackson in this manner it would have been spread across the tabloids within 24 hours.
Jackson said:
"I feel pure and good inside...taking a good shower."
Sunday, March 13, 2005
Leno Gag Lifted
Judge Rodney Melville has ruled that US talk show host, Jay Leno, can tell jokes about Michael Jackson; this despite the fact that there is a gag order on witnesses talking to the media about the trial.
The lifting of the gag came despite the fact that Jackson's lawyers argued that Leno, who has been subpoenaed as a possible witness, should be subject to the strict gag order just like every other witness.
Leno has been using a substitute to tell jokes about Jackson on his "Tonight Show" on US television.
Melville, on Friday, ruled that Leno could make jokes about Jackson. However, he could not talk about specific aspects of the case about which he might be called to testify.
Melville said:
"I wouldn't have expected him not to tell jokes, I would have expected him to tell good jokes,".
Leno's lawyers had argued that the gag would impinge on his freedom of speech.
Quote:
"Mr Jackson's assertion that broad restriction on Mr Leno's speech is necessary to protect Mr Jackson's right to a fair trial is specious,".
Judge Melville has allowed Jackson to file a request to issue a rebuttal to a US television show about Jackson, made by British TV journalist Martin Bashir.
Jackson's lawyers have asked the judge to hold Bashir in contempt of court, over a new film about Jackson broadcast in the United States last month.
The lifting of the gag came despite the fact that Jackson's lawyers argued that Leno, who has been subpoenaed as a possible witness, should be subject to the strict gag order just like every other witness.
Leno has been using a substitute to tell jokes about Jackson on his "Tonight Show" on US television.
Melville, on Friday, ruled that Leno could make jokes about Jackson. However, he could not talk about specific aspects of the case about which he might be called to testify.
Melville said:
"I wouldn't have expected him not to tell jokes, I would have expected him to tell good jokes,".
Leno's lawyers had argued that the gag would impinge on his freedom of speech.
Quote:
"Mr Jackson's assertion that broad restriction on Mr Leno's speech is necessary to protect Mr Jackson's right to a fair trial is specious,".
Judge Melville has allowed Jackson to file a request to issue a rebuttal to a US television show about Jackson, made by British TV journalist Martin Bashir.
Jackson's lawyers have asked the judge to hold Bashir in contempt of court, over a new film about Jackson broadcast in the United States last month.
Saturday, March 05, 2005
Home Movies
On Friday the jury in the Michael Jackson trial were forced to endure watching the equivalent of a ghastly home movie.
This was in fact a video of the Arvizo family, in which mummy Arvizo described Jackson in very warm terms; calling him an ideal father figure, who made them happier than they had ever been.
Quote:
"He spreads his wings. He makes sure my kids are safe and happy -- happiness they have never had..He's a true family man. He is an ideal family man, and I appreciate him with all my heart."
I commend the jury for not instinctively reaching for their sick bags at this juncture.
The saccharine coated video extolling the virtues of Jackson was recorded in the weeks following the February 2003 broadcast of a British documentary, "Living With Michael Jackson".
The prosecution allege that Jackson's advisors panicked, as the worldwide furor over the documentary by Martin Bashir threatened to sink Jackson's and his motley crew; the prosecution say that they coerced the Arvizo family into praising Jackson on the tape, they even supplied the script of what they should say.
Should the latter point about the script be true, then at the very least the Jackson team are guilty of creating a movie of nauseating hyperbole and should be punished accordingly
The videotape is in essence mummy Arvizo's testament to Jackson. In it she praises Jackson as a humble, giving man, who was important to her son's recovery from cancer and helped the family at a time when no-one else would.
Quote:
"Every door was closed to us, and Michael said, 'All of my doors are open'..".
She states that Jackson's involvement in their lives was "a wish come true."
Gavin also makes an appearance in the movie, saying that Jackson:
"treats me like he's my father..If you hear something bad about Michael, its not true, because Michael is such a loving man,".
After the tape, the jury then heard again from Davellin Arvizo, Gavin's sister, speaking of her brother she said:
"He didn't want to be hugged. He didn't want to be kissed..It just hurt because I'm his older sister."
She described how she had seen Jackson hugging her brother, and kissing him repeatedly on the head and the cheek.
This was in fact a video of the Arvizo family, in which mummy Arvizo described Jackson in very warm terms; calling him an ideal father figure, who made them happier than they had ever been.
Quote:
"He spreads his wings. He makes sure my kids are safe and happy -- happiness they have never had..He's a true family man. He is an ideal family man, and I appreciate him with all my heart."
I commend the jury for not instinctively reaching for their sick bags at this juncture.
The saccharine coated video extolling the virtues of Jackson was recorded in the weeks following the February 2003 broadcast of a British documentary, "Living With Michael Jackson".
The prosecution allege that Jackson's advisors panicked, as the worldwide furor over the documentary by Martin Bashir threatened to sink Jackson's and his motley crew; the prosecution say that they coerced the Arvizo family into praising Jackson on the tape, they even supplied the script of what they should say.
Should the latter point about the script be true, then at the very least the Jackson team are guilty of creating a movie of nauseating hyperbole and should be punished accordingly
The videotape is in essence mummy Arvizo's testament to Jackson. In it she praises Jackson as a humble, giving man, who was important to her son's recovery from cancer and helped the family at a time when no-one else would.
Quote:
"Every door was closed to us, and Michael said, 'All of my doors are open'..".
She states that Jackson's involvement in their lives was "a wish come true."
Gavin also makes an appearance in the movie, saying that Jackson:
"treats me like he's my father..If you hear something bad about Michael, its not true, because Michael is such a loving man,".
After the tape, the jury then heard again from Davellin Arvizo, Gavin's sister, speaking of her brother she said:
"He didn't want to be hugged. He didn't want to be kissed..It just hurt because I'm his older sister."
She described how she had seen Jackson hugging her brother, and kissing him repeatedly on the head and the cheek.
Friday, March 04, 2005
Arvizo's Sister Speaks
Gavin Arvizo's sister Davellin, Arvizo is Jackson's accuser, took the stand yesterday in Michael Jackson's trial.
She told the jurors about the making of the TV documentary that triggered the case, a children's drinking party with Jackson, changes in her brother's behaviour and death threats.
She spoke about private jet trips, stays in luxury hotels and at Jackson's Neverland ranch and plans by the Jackson's associates to send them to Brazil.
However, she did not state that she witnessed any molestation of her brother.
She did say that he became "weird."
Quote:
"Me and my brother are very, very close...During all this he didn't want to talk to me. He didn't want to be near me."
Jackson said that it was "Interesting, frustrating," to see her.
She said that at Neverland she often saw people with cups coming and going from a cellar, through a door hidden behind a jukebox. One day she decided to follow her two brothers behind the door.
Quote:
"When I walked into the wine cellar I saw Michael Jackson pouring wine into cups..I drank some and then I went upstairs and left it on the counter,".
She told the jury that on February 6 2003 Jackson had her family flown by private jet to a Miami resort, where he told them not to watch the documentary that would be aired that night.
On the flight home, she said, Jackson shared a soda can with Arvizo and gave him a watch and a jacket.
She told the jury about the making of the documentary, "Living With Michael Jackson", by British journalist Martin Bashir.
She said that Jackson greeted them, when they arrived, and that he took her brother aside for 5 to 10 minutes for a private talk.
She takes the stand again today.
She told the jurors about the making of the TV documentary that triggered the case, a children's drinking party with Jackson, changes in her brother's behaviour and death threats.
She spoke about private jet trips, stays in luxury hotels and at Jackson's Neverland ranch and plans by the Jackson's associates to send them to Brazil.
However, she did not state that she witnessed any molestation of her brother.
She did say that he became "weird."
Quote:
"Me and my brother are very, very close...During all this he didn't want to talk to me. He didn't want to be near me."
Jackson said that it was "Interesting, frustrating," to see her.
She said that at Neverland she often saw people with cups coming and going from a cellar, through a door hidden behind a jukebox. One day she decided to follow her two brothers behind the door.
Quote:
"When I walked into the wine cellar I saw Michael Jackson pouring wine into cups..I drank some and then I went upstairs and left it on the counter,".
She told the jury that on February 6 2003 Jackson had her family flown by private jet to a Miami resort, where he told them not to watch the documentary that would be aired that night.
On the flight home, she said, Jackson shared a soda can with Arvizo and gave him a watch and a jacket.
She told the jury about the making of the documentary, "Living With Michael Jackson", by British journalist Martin Bashir.
She said that Jackson greeted them, when they arrived, and that he took her brother aside for 5 to 10 minutes for a private talk.
She takes the stand again today.
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
Bashir Might Face Contempt Charge
The British journalist, Martin Bashir, might be prosecuted for contempt of court after refusing to answer questions yesterday during Michael Jackson's trial.
His documentary "Living With Michael Jackson" is the centre of the case against Jackson.
After Bashir took the stand, the documentary was shown to the jury.
Jackson was seen to wipe his eyes with a tissue during one part of the programme, in which he said that his children are his reason for living. He also appeared agitated when Bashir was in the witness box, putting his arms out as if to tell him to speak up.
Jackson was shown holding hands with boy, Gavin Arvizo, who accuses him of abuse. Arvizo says the Thriller star is perpetually childlike and understands children.
As Bashir was being questioned, Bashir's lawyer Theodore Boutrous invoked California's shield law for reporters and the First Amendment; saying that as a journalist Bashir did not have to answer questions about unpublished materials.
Quote:
"We today invoked the California shield law, which is part of the constitution, and it protects the independence and autonomy of journalists who report the news, and gather the news...The judge has taken our objections under consideration and has also indicated that the defence may be allowed to call Mr Bashir as a witness in their case, but only if they meet the standards of the constitution and of the First Amendment."
As Jackson left court, reporters asked him how he was feeling.
He said "good," then added "angry."
His documentary "Living With Michael Jackson" is the centre of the case against Jackson.
After Bashir took the stand, the documentary was shown to the jury.
Jackson was seen to wipe his eyes with a tissue during one part of the programme, in which he said that his children are his reason for living. He also appeared agitated when Bashir was in the witness box, putting his arms out as if to tell him to speak up.
Jackson was shown holding hands with boy, Gavin Arvizo, who accuses him of abuse. Arvizo says the Thriller star is perpetually childlike and understands children.
As Bashir was being questioned, Bashir's lawyer Theodore Boutrous invoked California's shield law for reporters and the First Amendment; saying that as a journalist Bashir did not have to answer questions about unpublished materials.
Quote:
"We today invoked the California shield law, which is part of the constitution, and it protects the independence and autonomy of journalists who report the news, and gather the news...The judge has taken our objections under consideration and has also indicated that the defence may be allowed to call Mr Bashir as a witness in their case, but only if they meet the standards of the constitution and of the First Amendment."
As Jackson left court, reporters asked him how he was feeling.
He said "good," then added "angry."
He Didn't Do It
The jury at the Michael Jackson trial was shown Martin Bashir's "Living With Michael" documentary on Tuesday. In it he is shown holding hands with the 13-year-old boy, Gavin Arvizo, who is accusing him of child molestation.
The first witness called to the stand, by the defence, was Martin Bashir. Bashir adopted the "shield" strategy, which is designed to protect journalists from being involved in court cases, and refused to answer defence questions.
Bashir refused to answer question after question; Jackson's lawyer repeatedly asked the judge to strike his film from evidence, and find Bashir guilty of contempt of court.
Mesereau asked Bashir as to whether he had been honest with Jackson over his motives for making the documentary, or if he had promised the singer editorial control.
Tom Mesereau, for the defence, said that no DNA evidence was ever found in Jackson's bedroom. He noted that Arvizo had free run of the Neverland estate. He said that Arvizo and his siblings were "out of control", they broke into Jackson's wine cellar and got drunk.
He said they even broke into the locked ferris wheel, in Neverland, they got to the top then started to throw things on the people and elephants below.
Mesereau, for good measure, then said that Arvizo's mother made full use of the trappings of Jackson's wealth. Seemingly she would enjoy limousine rides and salon visits, even during the time she claimed the family was being held against their will.
In other words, he didn't do it; and the charges are made up.
The first witness called to the stand, by the defence, was Martin Bashir. Bashir adopted the "shield" strategy, which is designed to protect journalists from being involved in court cases, and refused to answer defence questions.
Bashir refused to answer question after question; Jackson's lawyer repeatedly asked the judge to strike his film from evidence, and find Bashir guilty of contempt of court.
Mesereau asked Bashir as to whether he had been honest with Jackson over his motives for making the documentary, or if he had promised the singer editorial control.
Tom Mesereau, for the defence, said that no DNA evidence was ever found in Jackson's bedroom. He noted that Arvizo had free run of the Neverland estate. He said that Arvizo and his siblings were "out of control", they broke into Jackson's wine cellar and got drunk.
He said they even broke into the locked ferris wheel, in Neverland, they got to the top then started to throw things on the people and elephants below.
Mesereau, for good measure, then said that Arvizo's mother made full use of the trappings of Jackson's wealth. Seemingly she would enjoy limousine rides and salon visits, even during the time she claimed the family was being held against their will.
In other words, he didn't do it; and the charges are made up.
Saturday, February 26, 2005
Rulings
Judge Rodney Melville made a number of rulings yesterday, in addition to the one allowing the defence to attack the mother of Michael Jackson's accuser.
Judge Melville ruled that lawyers may not show the jury the entire "Living with Michael Jackson" documentary, but may use a clip.
The prosecution plans to use a two-minute segment. The first prosecution witness is expected to be the documentary's maker, Martin Bashir.
However, Judge Melville did not immediately rule on a defence request to take the jury to Jackson's ranch. It is reported that one juror and two alternates have already been there.
In another matter, Melville ruled that the defence will not be allowed to raise the allegations about the accuser's mother's extramarital affairs.
It seems that the defence said that it had wanted to show that during the time she was allegedly held captive by Jackson she was in contact with a Los Angeles police officer and an Army officer, whom she eventually married.
The defence also alleged that the mother might have been delusional, at the time she was allegedly held against her will, because she wasn't taking drugs that had been prescribed for her. Judge Melville barred mention of prescription drugs, unless the defence establishes that the woman was supposed to take them and did not.
The trouble with barring mentioning these issues, is that now that it has been widely reported the jury will be well aware of them.
Judge Melville ruled that lawyers may not show the jury the entire "Living with Michael Jackson" documentary, but may use a clip.
The prosecution plans to use a two-minute segment. The first prosecution witness is expected to be the documentary's maker, Martin Bashir.
However, Judge Melville did not immediately rule on a defence request to take the jury to Jackson's ranch. It is reported that one juror and two alternates have already been there.
In another matter, Melville ruled that the defence will not be allowed to raise the allegations about the accuser's mother's extramarital affairs.
It seems that the defence said that it had wanted to show that during the time she was allegedly held captive by Jackson she was in contact with a Los Angeles police officer and an Army officer, whom she eventually married.
The defence also alleged that the mother might have been delusional, at the time she was allegedly held against her will, because she wasn't taking drugs that had been prescribed for her. Judge Melville barred mention of prescription drugs, unless the defence establishes that the woman was supposed to take them and did not.
The trouble with barring mentioning these issues, is that now that it has been widely reported the jury will be well aware of them.
Wednesday, February 23, 2005
Jackson Makes It To Court
Michael Jackson managed to struggle into court yesterday, as the jury selection process resumed.
His lawyers added a few more "stars" to the list of witnesses that, seemingly, will add useful testimony on Jackson's behalf.
The additional names added to the list were; Eddie Murphy, Smokey Robinson and Macaulay Culkin.
The remainder of the day as spent dealing with less "glamorous" issues, such as jury selection.
Out of the 242 potential jurors remaining, 20 were dismissed by the end of the day.
The defence motion against Martin Bashir, for continuing to report on Jackson, was quashed by Judge Rodney Melville.
The documentary fronted by Bashir, Secret World, managed to cause some controversy; as there are suggestions that some of the subjects were paid.
Surely not!
His lawyers added a few more "stars" to the list of witnesses that, seemingly, will add useful testimony on Jackson's behalf.
The additional names added to the list were; Eddie Murphy, Smokey Robinson and Macaulay Culkin.
The remainder of the day as spent dealing with less "glamorous" issues, such as jury selection.
Out of the 242 potential jurors remaining, 20 were dismissed by the end of the day.
The defence motion against Martin Bashir, for continuing to report on Jackson, was quashed by Judge Rodney Melville.
The documentary fronted by Bashir, Secret World, managed to cause some controversy; as there are suggestions that some of the subjects were paid.
Surely not!
Monday, February 21, 2005
Bashir Contempt Motion
In documents released on Friday, in relation to the Michael Jackson trial, Judge Rodney Melville denied a defence motion to issue a contempt citation against Martin Bashir.
Bashir was the journalist who produced "Living With Michael Jackson" in 2003, then followed it up this week up with two more TV specials; including a two hour programme called, "Michael Jackson's Secret World".
The defence tried to argue that Bashir was in violation of a court gag order prohibiting him, as a witness, from continuing to make public statements on the case.
Bashir argues that, as a journalist, he is exempt from the gag order.
Bashir was the journalist who produced "Living With Michael Jackson" in 2003, then followed it up this week up with two more TV specials; including a two hour programme called, "Michael Jackson's Secret World".
The defence tried to argue that Bashir was in violation of a court gag order prohibiting him, as a witness, from continuing to make public statements on the case.
Bashir argues that, as a journalist, he is exempt from the gag order.
Wednesday, February 16, 2005
Jackson Threatens Feldman's Life
Actor Corey Feldman revealed that Michael Jackson once threatened his life, because he thought that Feldman was planning to reveal all about their friendship.
This rather bizarre assertion is made in an interview with Martin Bashir. Seemingly Feldman was among the celebrities attending Jackson's anniversary concert in New York in 2001, and was shocked by a brief chat he had with his friend backstage.
In the Bashir interview, which was featured on US news show 20/20 last Friday night, Feldman said:
"Michael had some paranoid delusion that I had some ill-fated intentions to write some sort of book about him, which was categorically untrue...What happened next was basically, the way I perceived it, is that he threatened my life."
Seemingly, this "threat" was nothing more than Jackson refusing to transport Feldman out of New York, on his tour bus the following day (11 September 2001); after terrorist planes had hit the twin towers of the World Trade Centre.
Seems like artistic hyperbole to me.
This rather bizarre assertion is made in an interview with Martin Bashir. Seemingly Feldman was among the celebrities attending Jackson's anniversary concert in New York in 2001, and was shocked by a brief chat he had with his friend backstage.
In the Bashir interview, which was featured on US news show 20/20 last Friday night, Feldman said:
"Michael had some paranoid delusion that I had some ill-fated intentions to write some sort of book about him, which was categorically untrue...What happened next was basically, the way I perceived it, is that he threatened my life."
Seemingly, this "threat" was nothing more than Jackson refusing to transport Feldman out of New York, on his tour bus the following day (11 September 2001); after terrorist planes had hit the twin towers of the World Trade Centre.
Seems like artistic hyperbole to me.
Sunday, February 13, 2005
Bashir's New Film
British television interviewer Martin Bashir, whose documentary "Living With Michael Jackson" led to the current molestation charges against Jackson, is finalising another film about Jackson.
Called "Michael Jackson's Secret World", it will be shown this Thursday on ABC.
It is reported to contain video footage of Jackson with young boys, including the one currently accusing him of molestation.
Called "Michael Jackson's Secret World", it will be shown this Thursday on ABC.
It is reported to contain video footage of Jackson with young boys, including the one currently accusing him of molestation.
Friday, February 11, 2005
Corey Feldman Interview
The actor Corey Feldman, who starred in Lost Boys and The Goonies, has been ordered to testify at the trial of Michael Jackson; after describing in a TV interview his visits to the singer's home as a teenager.
Feldman told journalist, Martin Bashir, how Mr Jackson showed him a book with pictures of naked men and women.
Feldman is now questioning how appropriate his relationship with the singer was.
Mr Feldman's television interview with Bashir will be shown tonight in the US on ABC's 20/20 show.
In the interview he talked about a book that was on display at Neverland, when he visited at the age of 13; quote:
"The book was focused on venereal diseases and the genitalia...(Jackson) sat down with me and he explained it to me, showed me some different pictures and discussed what those meant...".
Mr Feldman said at the time that he did not see the event as "a big deal" but had started to question it, in the light of child abuse allegations facing Mr Jackson.
He noted that Jackson had never touched him inappropriately during their friendship, and defended him to police during the 1993 investigation into abuse allegations.
Feldman told journalist, Martin Bashir, how Mr Jackson showed him a book with pictures of naked men and women.
Feldman is now questioning how appropriate his relationship with the singer was.
Mr Feldman's television interview with Bashir will be shown tonight in the US on ABC's 20/20 show.
In the interview he talked about a book that was on display at Neverland, when he visited at the age of 13; quote:
"The book was focused on venereal diseases and the genitalia...(Jackson) sat down with me and he explained it to me, showed me some different pictures and discussed what those meant...".
Mr Feldman said at the time that he did not see the event as "a big deal" but had started to question it, in the light of child abuse allegations facing Mr Jackson.
He noted that Jackson had never touched him inappropriately during their friendship, and defended him to police during the 1993 investigation into abuse allegations.
Saturday, January 29, 2005
Teenager and Adult Material to Appear in Trial
Judge Rodney Melville ruled, on Friday, that the teenager who has accused Michael Jackson of molestation must face him in open court.
He dismissed prosecutors' calls for the 15 year old alleged victim, and his 14 year old brother, to testify behind closed doors.
However, he warned that he would not tolerate any intimidation of the children:
"Whether I keep an open courtroom will depend on what happens during their testimony..".
Additionally, Judge Melville ruled that the jury will be allowed to see the dozens of sexually explicit books and magazines seized from Neverland; also that the Martin Bashir documentary, "Living with Michael Jackson", would be shown.
Melville has banned the use of the terms "pornography, obscene or erotica" in front of the jury, ordering the prosecutors to refer to "books, magazines, adult material or sexually explicit" items; lest it prejudice the jury, one man's pornography is another's art.
Bashir will be made to come to court, to testify; despite his attempts to avoid appearing.
Jackson must be present in court for every day of his trial, as from Tuesday. However, Melville warned Jackson not to clutter the court up with members of his entourage.
He dismissed prosecutors' calls for the 15 year old alleged victim, and his 14 year old brother, to testify behind closed doors.
However, he warned that he would not tolerate any intimidation of the children:
"Whether I keep an open courtroom will depend on what happens during their testimony..".
Additionally, Judge Melville ruled that the jury will be allowed to see the dozens of sexually explicit books and magazines seized from Neverland; also that the Martin Bashir documentary, "Living with Michael Jackson", would be shown.
Melville has banned the use of the terms "pornography, obscene or erotica" in front of the jury, ordering the prosecutors to refer to "books, magazines, adult material or sexually explicit" items; lest it prejudice the jury, one man's pornography is another's art.
Bashir will be made to come to court, to testify; despite his attempts to avoid appearing.
Jackson must be present in court for every day of his trial, as from Tuesday. However, Melville warned Jackson not to clutter the court up with members of his entourage.
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