Jacko is dead

Michael Jackson, the brilliantly talented, deeply troubled, endlessly controversial, undisputed King of Pop, died yesterday in Los Angeles.

Jackson’s career began 45 years ago as the youngest of the Gary, Indiana, Jackson Five brothers whose career was managed by their father, Joe. When Motown signed them on, they were instantly hugely successful.

Jackson’s solo career, which he began in 1971, was enormous. Thriller, Billie Jean, Black or White – his list of hits which helped sell more than 750 million albums goes on and on. His stage presence, magical dancing feats, and stunning special lighting effects, mesmerized his audiences around the globe.

As his popularity soared, so did curiosity over his increasingly unusual behavior and troubling legal battles. He altered his physical appearance through countless plastic surgeries. His skin color changed. He was put on trial for child abuse. His finances were in disarray.

And yet, throughout all these difficulties, he remained the consummate, charming, inventive performer, who was weeks short of launching his This Is It, 50-concert, comeback tour in London.

Jackson, who was 50, is survived by his three children, eight siblings, and his parents.