Jackson Funeral Draws Millions
Over 30 million people tuned in yesterday to watch Michael Jackson’s funeral. The service was held in the Staples Center in downtown Los Angeles. The memorial, like Jackson himself, was an extravagant production.
Jackson’s service saw performances and tributes from music greats like Mariah Carey, Usher, Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie, Jennifer Hudson, John Mayer, and Michael’s brother, Jermain Jackson. A number of celebrities also spoke, recalling fond memories of times with Jackson. Brooke Shields recounted their life-long friendship that was often dubbed unlikely; she reiterated how perfectly easy and natural it really was. Smokey Robinson drew upon the amazing talent and feeling Jackson possessed as a young boy singing one of Robinson’s own songs. Queen Latifah reminisced about buying the album “Dance Machine” with her brother as a young girl; she concluded with words penned by poet Maya Angelou written specially for the occasion.
Others spoke as well including Rev. Al Sharpton, Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), and the children of Martin Luther King, Jr. — all highlighting Jackson’s character and challenging misconceptions of his conduct. Michael’s brother Marlon provided a few parting thoughts as the ceremony came to a close. The last word, however, came from Paris, Michael’s Jackson’s daughter:
“Ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father I can imagine. And I just want to say, I love him so much.”
It was apparent that many people felt the same way about Jackson. His work and his life both stand a testament to a great talent and a great man that has left behind an enduring legacy.
[photo: Kevork Djansezian]
Tags: funeral, Michael Jackson, Paris, Staples Center
