YBF photographer/correspondent Wil Shelton was inside the Staples Center for the Michael Jackson memorial. And here’s a recap of audience’s reactions and people in attendance that we couldn’t see on tv:
- While Jennifer Hudson sang “Will You Be There”, several people in the audience audibly and visibly broke down and were virtually inconsolable.
- Celebrities seen inside the Staples Center but not shown on tv: John Singleton, Jesse Jackson, LisaRaye, Lil Kim, Dionne Warwick, and Cicely Tyson.
- From inside the Staples Center, you could really feel the deep and profound loss in the atmosphere.
- The 20,000 audience members hung on to every word of Al Sharpton’s moving speech. Went to church on everybody in that piece…
- The Jackson family was incredibly moved at Usher’s rendition of “Gone Too Soon”
- Memorable quotes from the memorial:
“He is not just the King of Pop, he’s the biggest entertainer that ever lived.”-Berry Gordy
“Michael was a genius with unchallenged ability.”-Brooke Shields
“This is a moment I wished I didn’t live to see come.”-Stevie Wonder
“So much pain and ridicule. How much can 1 person take? Maybe now, they’ll leave you alone Michael.”-Marlon Jackson
“Ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine. And I just wanted to say that I love him. So much.”-A sobbing Paris Katherine Jackson
More pics from the memorial when you read the rest…
R.I.P. Michael.
Photogs: Harrison Funk and Kevin Mazur
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:27 PM
are they gonna replay it anywhere?
primera??
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:28 PM
Thank you Michael!
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:28 PM
AMAZING! RIP
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:28 PM
The family coming to the stage to speak , had me in tears, I really was hoping Smokey Robinson would sing “Really Gonna Miss You”, that would have did it, but overall it was memorial service.
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:28 PM
If you want to make the world a better place take a look at yourself and make a change!
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:29 PM
Beautiful… His daughter had me in tears.
Side note… I wish Trey would have hit that high note!
First?!?!
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:29 PM
aww, they let his children spead…sadness.
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:29 PM
It will re-air on VH1 at 7 pm.
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:30 PM
aww, they let his children speak…:(
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:30 PM
Amazing tribute!! i cried the whole time. R.I.P Michael
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:30 PM
Gone to soon.. This is a sad day in history, God bless and keep his family.
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:30 PM
Gone to soon.. This is a sad day in history, God bless and keep his family.
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:32 PM
WOW that was touching i haven’t cried so much in a while, it was beautiful tho
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:33 PM
This was one of the most moving events I’ve ever seen….how emotional and beautiful at the same time. Michael I love you and I will truly miss you!
Your eternal fan!
Mina
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:34 PM
This homegoing celebration was amazingly beautiful!!
Jennifer sounded wonderfully soulful…she had me nervous though, I thought that water was gonna break !
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:35 PM
paris had me crying…so sad
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:37 PM
never can say goodbye….done with the dignity and respect michael deserved….and his children…just beautiful
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:38 PM
I lost it at work when his daughter Paris spoke and if you haven’t watched it yet you will lose it too when you finally see it.
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:38 PM
everyone did a great job and I loved Al Shaprton and Marlon’s speech. Jermaine made me cry and so did Michael’s little girl Paris. I thought everything went well. Michael would have been pleased.
RIP Michael Jackson always remember you
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:38 PM
I am lost for words for the grief that I feel and I cannot even wrap my head around what his family has gone through :(
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:39 PM
i live in france and i could eat today starring at my tv,it was really sad michael was a part of my childhood i cant believe he’s gonee cuz he was the only artist able to touch every country,every age,the end of the show with heal the world was a moment i would never forget
rip michael
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:39 PM
I broke down when Usher did. Truly a moving homegoing. Rest in Peace Michael Jackson. He has done more with the life GOD has given him than most and I am moved to do more with my own. I thank GOD for the gift that is Michael Jackson.
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:40 PM
I cried too when his daughter Paris spoke!!! It was so moving. Those poor kids. I am still in disbelief about the whole thing….
And I’m so glad no pants hanging off their ass rappers were no where in sight!
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:40 PM
WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!! Just speechless and I have no more tears to cry. All cried out!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:41 PM
Thank you MJ for the greatest gift, you were the BEST R.I.P and Family my heart goes out to you all LOVE YOU MJ xxxx
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:41 PM
That was Emosh. R.I.P Michael,
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:42 PM
This was so sad. When the song I’ll be there came on, i cried. It was so touching, and Mariah did well singing it.
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:42 PM
Another memorable quote was by Al Sharpton….
“There was nothing strange about your daddy”
“There were strange things he had to deal with”
For all those who said negative things about the man in the last week and half, God have mercy on your souls. If they could do just 10% of what Mike gave that would be incredible. I loved his music, but sometimes forgot about how many barriers he helped erase, and how much he did for Humanity. A good person was laid to rest today…..
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:43 PM
Now that was a tribute & remembrance suitable for Michael….I couldn’t even watch for long periods of time, the level of sadness that fills ppl’s heart for a man most ppl never even met truly goes to show Michael had the great gift of reaching ppl on all levels…..I wish I could’ve been there
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:43 PM
Michael, you are such an inspiration to me as an young african american. You truly were a blessing to all of us around the world. We have lost the greatest entertainer that ever lived, but we have gained an amazing angel.
R.I.P Michael
We love you and will never forget you!!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:45 PM
…very touching and well put together service for MJ.
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:45 PM
URSH AND PARIS HAD ME IN TEARS,,,,,
RIP MICHAEL KING OF POP
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:46 PM
Me too…
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:48 PM
I love jennifer and all but somehow she manages to always have the “wrong” thing on… didnt her stylist tell her it was a memorial?!?! wear black.
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:49 PM
I was busy screwing my face at those frizzy braids
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:51 PM
Now thats how you send a King home. I am truly pleased with the tone and delivery of this memorial! His final act and boy was it a show..I laughed..and cried and cried and laughed. Long live the King. Everyone did a wonderful job. We love you Michael! May God be with you and to your children we will wrap our arms around them!
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:52 PM
Ok, when Paris spoke I lost it!! I don’t cry for anything but this had me in tears, despite of what the media says about him, he was a good father to those kids.
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:52 PM
Michael we luv and miss you :’( See you later
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:52 PM
I have not cried this much since my grandfather passed. i have been weaping since they brought him out while the choir started singing , I thought I finally lost it when Usher sung & Brooke spoke but when his daughter apoke I just let it go .What a wonderful service, everyone did a great job.Now hopefully he will be in peace and left alone.
Side note:Martin Bashir and all you negative nut ass media may you choke on the pens from which you write lies from and may you hang your self with the wires from the mics you hide behind.
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:53 PM
Michael..you will always be remembered….i’m only 21 but I love his music. He had the ability to touch people all over the nation. He was truly an amazing person. I watched the memorial at work and broke down completely when paris got up there. He was an icon to us but he was also a son, brother and father…..Now the King of Pop has gone to be with the King of Kings…..Rest In Peace !!
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:54 PM
On CNN at 7pm
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:55 PM
am w/ you on the rappers..Thank God
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:56 PM
Many people I’ve known don’t wear black at funerals/wakes/memorials because they rather celebrate the life of the person than mourn their death
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:56 PM
WOW! PARIS, THAT DID IT FOR ME. I DID NOT EVEN WATCH THE WHOLE THING BECAUSE I KNEW I WOULD LOOSE IT. I STARTED WATCHING WITH USHER, WHICH WAS REAL SAD! THEN WHEN PARIS SAID THAT ABOUT HER DADDY AT THE END! THAT DID IT FOR ME!
CHILDREN ARE SO INNOCENT. THAT WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY JUST LIKE WHEN JFK SON SALUTED HIM WHEN HE PASSED.
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:57 PM
@ strong…nothing wrong with wearing white. I know plenty of people who wear white to funerals. And they were also celebrating his life! So I think white is appropriate.
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:58 PM
Ditto! Lawd, when Usher touched the coffin with “gone too soon,” then Paris lil’ face/speech put me over the edge, O gosh!
Tue, July 7, 2009 4:59 PM
amen! he went to church on that speach.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:00 PM
Sad but yet sweet..RIP MJ
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:00 PM
White is appropriate at funerals too
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:00 PM
Michael I love you so much more then words can say.
You will be missed, You are gone but will never be forgotten.
The Memaorial today was beautiful, this send off to Michael Jackson was amazing in so many was.
I love you Michael and I will always love you, may you watch over your children and rest in eternal peace until we meet again!
I love you dearly!
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:00 PM
cnn has a link to replay it on their website.
does anyone have a link or photos of Usher touching the casket?
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:01 PM
Very sad but beautiful, jennifer did great, Mariah had me scared but she pulled it together toward the end, his daugther had my eyes a little watery…
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:02 PM
God, that was a beautiful memorial. I lost it so many times during the service that I was done, done, done by the time Usher’s performance was over.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:04 PM
It was a great service..
of course Paris did it for me. Crying like I got a beating. I can’t imagine loosing my father, so i really feel for her and her brothers as well as the rest of his family.
Usher got me teary eyed, he did a GREAT job.
Mariah, obviously didn’t warm up before she hit the stage, thank god for the man who sang with her.
I really wish this wasn’t real. RIP Mikey!
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:04 PM
it was a beautiful tribute, with a wonderful message. I was, am now, and will forever be a Michael Jackson fan. I Love You, Michael!! RIP
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:04 PM
~яєѕт ιη ρєα¢є мι¢нαєℓ~
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:05 PM
I watched an hour of the celebration, during my lunch, and was moved by the heartfelt love and emotion exhibited during the celebration of his life and musical genius. Michael Jackson was truly a gift from the Almighty God to us, and I thank God for the experience of coming to love he and his music. I’ve have never once cringed when listening to his lyrics, and never felt embarrassed by him. My prayers go out to his family, particularly his children. There will never be another musical talent like Michael Jackson. One is truly one of a kind!!!!!!! RIP brother Michael.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:06 PM
Nelson Mandela, Barack Obama, Micheal Jackson….three great people that have stopped the world in its tracks.
RIP Mannnn. U are sorely missed
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:07 PM
j hud wore white in celebration of his life..my family never wears black @ funerals we always wear white..besides bump what she had on she was apart of a very great moment in history so what she wore shouldn’t even matter…
by the way al sharpton gave the BEST speech eva..i didnt expect him to speak so well!
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:08 PM
Lord When USHER came out with “Gone too Soon” I cried hard. The tears came down my face because that performance was truly heartfelt. Damn MJ, I still can’t believe you’re gone.
Also broke when Marlon said “Give our brother Brandon a hug” and when Paris said that about her dad.
Beautiful homegoing service, they did him very well. My childhood has officially been put to rest because MJ was my childhood. Damn, gone but NEVER forgotten.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:09 PM
I love u MJ…..Im so sad i didn’t get tickets to be @ the memorial service as much as i wanted to go. My daddy is now with the king of pop in heaven and I know hes soo soooo happy. Because of my father im in love with michael and all of his songs…i have every album hes made and will cherish them along with his memories in my heart. i love u daddy and MJ may u rest in peace in paradise.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:10 PM
Usher was amazing he brought me to tears,and Al Sharpton had a profound speech that made everyone look at themselves, and I loved that they used some of the videos that was actually going to be in his last tour, well done Jackson Family. RIP MICHAEL J. Jackson you will live on.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:12 PM
I know we all have to go . . . but honestly . . . there are just some people that you just can’t imagine the world without (your mom, your dad . . . grandparents) for me Michael Jackson was just one of those people . . . R. I. P. Michael Jackson . . . I still have my beat jacket . . . : }
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:13 PM
usher new what he was doing when he touched that casket. he knew it would be the talk of the town and that’s exactly what’s happening! usher is so phony to me!
but anyways!!!!!!!!!!! Everyone else was wonderful! Paris and Jermaine had me crying! It was a nice and moving service and shall Michael R.I.P.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:13 PM
@4evanN.O.
j hud wore white in celebration of his life..my family never wears black @ funerals we always wear white..besides bump what she had on she was apart of a very great moment in history so what she wore shouldn’t even matter…
by the way al sharpton gave the BEST speech eva..i didnt expect him to speak so well!
———————————————————-
don’t even say nothing to them about JHud, i guess she shoulda went up there in a leotard/bodysuit, smh :roll:
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:14 PM
Now that we’ve laid our brother to rest, let justice prevail!
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:15 PM
I cosign! People were always too focused on what “they” deemed to be weird about him! He was magic. He loved, he laughed, he cried, he entertained, he brought millions upon millions to their feet, he crossed barriers and color lines, he endured abuse. He never let the world harden him or his heart. A genuine real human being something the world does not see enough of! Before you talk about what others need to or should be doing take a look in the mirror it starts with the man/woman in the mirror! It is sad that only in death is he given the amount of love and respect he truely deserves! R.I.P MJJ!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:18 PM
I don’t think Mariah warmed up. I have heard her sing live numerous times and she is amazing. J Hud was a sensational. I feel so bad for the kids, especially that little girl. Poor thang. *tears* I hope her aunts play a major role in raising her.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:18 PM
Chris should take notes from his bodygaurd and purchase a suit, there not only for court hearings you know.
Usher and J-Hud is all we have to music. Artists are gonna have to GO HARD OR GO HOME.
I refuse to put up with TERRIBLE music from here on.
Playing “Give In To Me” RIP MJ.
:(
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:19 PM
But it is not their place to go against tradition unless the departed requested it! She could have worn white to “celebrate” his life to some other event. When in doubt, follow the family! If the Jackson’s had wanted to wear other colors to celebrate his life, they would have! You should wear black to services to show mourning and respect… period!
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:19 PM
You never realize the impact a person has on your life until they’re gone. I’ll admit I was one of those people that laughed at all of the comedians that poked fun at Michael, but when you think about it, as talented as he was, his life was speckled with so much heartache and grief. So tragic…Michael you will be truly missed.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:20 PM
Yeah, It is not written in the memorial service hand book that the color you have to wear is black. For my childs father’s service we all decided to wear his favorite color.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:20 PM
this was by far one of the BEST homegoing celebrations i have ever witnessed. what was supposed to me a memorial, became a celebration and i am so glad i was able to witness it in it’s entirety. From the beginning of the ceremony, until the end it was done with such class and taste. It showed the world just how special and dear he was to so many people. When the Reverend Al Sharpton got up there to speak…I promise you my Amen was as loud as it could be….he PREACHED that thang’!…..it didn’t truly hit me that he was gone, until his daughter spoke….when she proclaimed how GREAT of a father he was, and that she loved him….it symbolized that he was not just an entertainer, he was a MAN….a great one at that…..R.I.P Michael Jackson
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:21 PM
The Jacksons looked like a strong black family today despite every single thing you thought you knew about them.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:21 PM
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:21 PM
RIP MICHEAL JACKSON FOREVER……
I just wanted to say a final THANK YOU, for the influnce you had in my life, for sharing your life and music with me, for the times that you made my family come together to watch you, for helping me heal after a broken heart, for teaching me how to dance and for keep me inspired!
And I will cherish the time I go to meet you in person at the Mall of America even more than I did the day before….
My words cannot express my pain. My prayers and with your family and children, And MAY YOU FINALLY GET TO REST IN PEACE….
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:24 PM
I’m like everyone else except I started tearing when Stevie sand “never dream you’d leave in summer”. OMG! I cried when that played in Poetic Justice. Then Usher…OH BOY!! He had to go and touch the casket, that’s what got me. I thought I was done then Paris spoke. What a heartfelt sentiment. People thought MJ was this pedophile but Paris made it known that her dad was the best Daddy ever. That really had me in tears, especially when she collapsed into Janet. You can see how close those kids are to their aunts/uncles and grandmother. RIP MIKE.
Oh, one thing that bothered me….was it just me or did Joe Jackson just not seem remorseful?? That man just rubs me the wrong damn way for some reason…..
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:24 PM
I didn’t believe the service would be as moving as it was. The performances were very touching.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:25 PM
I think this memorial was done so beautifully! The performances, speeches, etc. were great. To me there were alot of touching moments, but I must agree with others, as a parent the most touching moment to me was when Michael Jackson’s daughter Paris spoke… I was no more good and the tears were flowing. Wow, I will continue to pray for his family. R.I.P Michael Jackson. We miss you much!
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:26 PM
This was such a organized beautiful event. BET take notes.
I cried when Paris Michael spoke. It just broke my heart b/c she lost her daddy.
Everyone gave such wonderful speeches and it couldn’t have been better.
RIP Michael.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:29 PM
Thank you Michael! Thank you for your worldwide love to all of mankind!!!!!!!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:29 PM
Abusers never really are remorseful.. He probably feels everything he did was right. Anyone who can shamelessly promote their record lable not even a week after their child has passed away is a cold piece of work. Just my thought.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:29 PM
Phew that service was emotional. Marlon J. did a very emotional but sweet speech. I loved it.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:33 PM
Al Sharpton said the hardest job of a preacher is to preach the eulogy of a negro that never did anything in his life. People need to get BUSY!!!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:33 PM
He did and he sounded really good. His kids are beautiful!
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:34 PM
I can’t believe people are being so catty about what someone wore to a funeral or the fact that Usher touched the casket.. The family was obviously moved by that gesture that they all got up to hug him.. Relax and just for a day remember what Mike stood for… He wasn’t about this kinda of catty bullshit
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:35 PM
Janet is a fucking DIVA. She’s got on gloves…work that shyt girl. Love the pearls and her sunglasses have just the right amount of tint.
The photograph of the kids is haunting. So sad.
I see LaToya did Paris’ nails. She know big mama didn’t let you wear red nail polish until you were 18.
Jennifer Hudson threw down. She looked good in the white.
Yah for Brooke Shields. She had MJ first.
Al is a way better man than Jesse.
I really wish Janet would raise the kids. There’s a photo of her and Paris on another site and she looks like she’d kill a bytch protecting them. Oh but no Jermaine Dupree he must be forever banished from her life!!!! Troll.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:36 PM
I am certainly all cried out. That was one fo the most touching tributes I’ve ever seen on TV. Well done and heartwrenching. Michael, you are so missed. I hope that you are finally at peace. R.I.P.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:36 PM
I love you Michael Jackson!!! You were my first boyfriend and we never even meet!! My first concert was at the Fourm and it was yours my next door neighbor had (1)extra tickect and ask if I wanted to go, I was honored. I use to act like I wrote the song “Dear Michael”, to you. I will give Kim Fields her credit…I loved that song Kim!!
I just wanted to share my special Michael Jackson moments… May your soul rest in peace.
“Just look over your shoulder honey”
MJ + WJ forever!!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:38 PM
That was the tribute to end all tributes!!! I don’t even have to watch grammy tributes, ama tributes, wma tributes, THIS WAS IT!!!! So sad and beautiful
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:38 PM
THe memorial service was beautiful. Clearly irony in that MJ was bigger than the BET network. As in life, he clearly crossed all color barriers. It took the world to truly appreciate who he was.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:38 PM
okay can anyone tell me where MJJ’s sister Reebie is? Seems like everyone forgot her
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:39 PM
Paris is a rock.She seems to be the strength within the sibling clan. What a beautiful send off. Thanks Michael.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:39 PM
Great Homegoing, clearly, Paris is the one who will step up and take care of her brothers evenhthough she is the middle child. My ♥ goes out to any child who loses their parents too soon!!!!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:40 PM
I didn’t know Marlon had a twin brother who died…when did this happen, at birth?
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:40 PM
@MRS les923 ELBA…i shouldnt have even entertained them ur right..people just show ignorance anytime they get a chance!
ok, am i the only person that didnt kno marlon was a twin??
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:43 PM
Rebbie was right there… She was the one adjusting the Mic when Paris was speaking
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:43 PM
I missed most of the memorial, but I caught the end. Who was the young lady that sang the lead at the end (I think it was heal the world), she also sang during We are the world??
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:44 PM
She is pregnant you fool!!! She represents life so why should she wear the color black!!!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:45 PM
I’m not sure about wearing black anymore to a memorial or funeral but as long as its respectable clothing in the house of God..Someone should of told Mariah that where people are praising God you don’t wear something so revealing
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:45 PM
Those kids are BEAUTIFUL no matter what has been said about their parentage. Watching Paris during the service and at the end, she obviously loves to sing and Prince seems very mature. Little Blanket looked confused and scared but was clutching his MJ doll through the whole thing. When Paris spoke at the end….my heart broke for her and her brothers. I only pray that the vultures and the bloodsuckers leave these kids alone and let them grow up in peace. Unfortunately, we all know that will never happen. RIP Mr. Jackson
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:46 PM
This was on wikipedia about the twin! Prays for the family!
“He had a twin that was stillborn during an emergency c-section.
His twin died as a result of respiratory failure. ”
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Did_marlon_jackson_have_a_twin
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:47 PM
I believe its Pairs Michael Katherine Jackson…
But that beautiful little girl had me balling like a baby…what a brave child to want to go up and say those words on behalf of her beloved DADDY..people fail to realize thats just what he was & nobody had heard anyone say those words before
Blanket looks so distraught…but all in all I thought it was a great memorial..everything was very well done and respectful
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:49 PM
@AngieMNDC
Rebbie was on stage when Paris was talking, she was to the right (our left) of Paris when she was on stage talking.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:49 PM
I’ve heard her live too, it might’ve really been emotions. I doubt she knew that casket was going to be infront of her and she and Michael were good freind so i could understand. Her and Lionel sounded shaky a bit, but great none the less
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:50 PM
I was young (6) when my mother died and I probably looked confused and distraught like Blanket….my sister was older (8)and cried alot…but it took a while for me to fully understand..
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:52 PM
That tribute was awesome! BET should take notes. And please…get off of J HUD. This post should be focused on MJ not what J HUD was wearing. I personally think the dress was beautiful. At least it wasnt all low cut and exposed like Mariah. But because she is Mariah…people just over look it. Quit hating on J HUD. It was a honor and very big of her to come and sing considering most of her family was killed less than a year ago. I know I wouldnt be able to do it…plus she is preggo. I think she did a job well done.
Anyhoot…its about MJ. And what a way to do. I wouldnt change anything about the tribute. God bless the Jackson family especially his children.
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:54 PM
I had no idea the idea of a repast after a funeral was foreign to so many people. Its been kind of funny to watch reporters try to explain it to their viewers. LOL!!
I was so hoping they would do Michael justice with this celebration of his life, and they DID. That was a beautiful service.
Often IMITATED but NEVER DUPLICATED!!!! Thanks for the memories Michael. May you now REST in PEACE!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:58 PM
Yahoo has photos of the memorial…more than 500…some are repeats but I think I did see a picture of Usher touching the casket
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:59 PM
I was thinking the same thhing. Is that reall “mainly” traditional with us?? Bcus i heard some of them trying to explain!! lol
Tue, July 7, 2009 5:59 PM
AMEN And AMEN!!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:01 PM
WHO cares…I want to see what u look like…this is not the time u ass hole!
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:02 PM
“thank you god for giving us michael joseph jackson i love you and you will be missed i wish you were still here”
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:03 PM
this is my favorite picture of michael. i can recall my “mead” spiral notebook with that picture on the cover. i’ve recently found a poster online for sale. i ordered it! can’t wait to see it!
anyone ever had the MICHAEL JACKSON DOLL? man i wish i still had it! all i have is the thriller jacket it came with! that was the cutest doll. i remember playing with it along side my christie barbie doll. and the painted plastic hair that was to resemble the jheri curl with the twirl of hair painted on the forehead. classic!
I MISS YOU MICHAEL!
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:04 PM
Ive seen people wear white to a funeral, celebrating the life. I think J-Hud, Mimi, JJ..and everybody looked great and appropriate. And Jon Mayer did very good.
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:07 PM
I am still teary over, Brooke, Usher, and little Paris. Rev. Shartpton and Sheila Jackson Lee had me fired up though.
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:07 PM
i loved the whole memorial program they had for Mike R.I.P. it was beautiful he will always be missed i luv u MIKE!!!!im 35 and i’ve been a fan since i was first hear his songs with the Jackson 5 and off the wall songs all he way til his presence he will always live!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:08 PM
i love u Micheal Jackson…RIP
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:08 PM
Had 2 come back with a postive comment…the memorial was just beautiful! We love you always…Usher was remarkable…
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:10 PM
What a moving tribute to Michael and his lasting legacy of music and human kindness. I thought the whole ceremony was a class act from beginning to end. I was moved to tears by Usher’s song, Stevie’s song and most especially, Michael’s little girl, Paris. It’s a shame it took this for the media to be able to see that this man, this great artist, this wunderkind of magic and music, was above all else, a human being who was loved and did love. My prayers are with his family. Michael, we will miss you :-(
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:10 PM
JenniFAT HUGE-son should be in the gym; that’s where she should be right now.
kisses
*prettywhitegirl*
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:10 PM
when his daughter went up to say what she had to say i just broke down this is the worst day in my life i wish michael was still here even though i grew up in the ealy 90’s and despite what the media has said about him and tried to tear him down i never belived any of it i have always wanted to meet michael in person but now i can’t i wish he was still here i wish this have never happened. at least he’s free now i love you michael joseph jackson THANK GOD FOR MICHAEL!!!!!!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:10 PM
Awe, that was too cute! I smiled.Michael too was my first bf lol
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:14 PM
marlon jackson, brooke shields, and daughter paris had me ballling. that was beautiful. better than that mess BET called a tribute…
ushers performance was beautiful. that also had me crying lol basically everything had me crying.
but anyways, your finally free now michael. no more evil white reporters and CONGRESSMEN [DID YALL SEE THAT EVIL WHITE MAN CALL HIM A PEDOPHILE] calling you out of your name. your soul can finally rest in the paradise that you deserve with the king of kings. RIP
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:19 PM
GAWD YOUR STUPID…..YOU ARE ON THE WRONG SITE….BRANG YO, IGNIT ASS OVER TO THAT FAT, RACIST, FAGGOT PEREZ HILTONS SITE. GET THE FUCK OFF THIS SITE.
SHE’S PREGNANT YOU DUMB BITCH!
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:19 PM
damnnn, this memorial hit me realll hard.
no lie, i was gonna bawl my eyessss out.
mj was a human being, & its a shame no one saw him for who he truly was until his death.
“I’m just like anyone. I cut and I bleed. And I embarass easily.” – M.J
hell, i miss him.
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:23 PM
This was one of the most beautiful memorial services ever. I CANNOT believe that Michael Jackson, my childhood boyfriend who brought so much joy and excitement to so many, is GONE! I’m completely outdone today.
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:25 PM
I see some people just HAVE to be negative and unnecessary…you need to find personal peace! AND read man in the mirror lyrics!
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:27 PM
lol was watching the reporter on msnbc like wtf? we do this all the time i thought everyone did.
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:31 PM
LMAO!
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:32 PM
I am still crying! Thanks for posting the pictures!!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:35 PM
Actually in my family (I am Black) it is a long standing tradition to wear white (winter white/ or cream in winter and fall) to funerals. It is also the traditional in many asian and middle eastern cultures.
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:41 PM
i love every minute of the service, the performance, the speeches, everything, everytime i look at those kids i start balling, just the fact that they had to deal with so much at such a young age, now they have to go though life without their father physically there for them God bless them that they have that big family and wonderful Grandma, and i hate to say it yes joe to hey he is their grandfather
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:44 PM
we all took a big big loss now its time 4 us all 2 start the healing prosess for those kids to move on we have 2 begin the healing for them M.J. rest in peace to the kids your farther will always be the man in the mirror no matter where you are his love will always follow you
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:47 PM
To the poster that said something about Joe Jackson just doesn’t sit right, I agree. His whole demeanor is off. At first I thought he was simply the same callous son of bitch he’d always been, but now I’m starting to think that maybe is in the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Anyway, in the worlds of David A. Arnold, “…once the grieving process if over and everyone has mourned, Michael, nobody is fucking with you. Nobody wants to join beat a nigger productions.”
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:48 PM
CO-SIGN THAT!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:49 PM
MJ you will be missed
love you now and forever
RIP
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:50 PM
The memorial ervice wa beautiful!!!!!!!!! I wa good until the very end…Marlon got me teary eyed and Paris had my bawling!!!!!!!!!! Because I still have my father and he was popular to a lot of the kids to the community as a baseball coach & baketball coach and they only aw that part of him. Even though we have all out arguments he is still MY daddy and only me and my brother ll experience the pain of losing him as a father as will Prince,Paris, and Blanket! I can’t even fathom their pain!
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:53 PM
Rebbie is with Latoya and Janet in the picture above with the three of them. Take a look again.
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:53 PM
I think everyone did really well at the memorial and I would rather have mariah than maddona at a memorial. Brooke shields that was upsetting but what made me break down and cry was lil paris its so sad to loose a parent at such a young age
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:58 PM
That woman… I know she’s always ass out for her little paparazzi outings, but this was a memorial service not one of her concerts. She should have toned it down.
Tue, July 7, 2009 6:59 PM
I’m co-signing to the 25th power. Ain’t none of these saggy pants fools going to be around , mounting huge arena tours where tickets sell out in minutes when they busted ass turn 50. Though Michael was very much a fan of rap and hip hop, I’m sure he is not a fan of the coonin’, black-face spectacle rap has become.
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:01 PM
Like, whoa! I need to take it down a notch. LOL
I loved John Mayers guitar solo sans lyrics of Human Nature. Very much reminded of when Miles Davis did it in 1991 at the Montreux Jazz Festival.
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:02 PM
CAN SOMEONE PLEASE CALL BET (STEPHEN HILL) AND TELL THEM/HIM THAT THIS IS HOW YOU PAY HOMAGE?!!!! THIS IS WHAT ONE WOULD CALL A CLASSY EVENT! WHY DOES BET LOWER THE BAR EVERY OPPORTUNITY THEY GET? THIS MEMORIAL MADE ME PROUD – PROUD OF MICHAEL, HIS ACHIEVEMENTS AND THAT ALL EYES WERE ON US AND WE SHOWED THE WORLD BLACK PEOPLE DON’T ALWAYS CURSE (BABYBOY SKETCH) WEAR ICED OUT CHAINS THAT SAY -”BIG ASS CHAIN” AND BRING FIFTY PEOPLE ON STAGE. WE ARE THE BRIGHTEST, MOST TALENTED PEOPLE ON THE FACE OF THIS EARTH AND TAKE NOTICE WHAT YOU SEE ON BET IS NOT A REPRESENTATION OF OUR PEOPLE !!!!!!!!!!!!!
PS – DID ANYONE ELSE – SEE CHRIS BROWN IN THE AUDIENCE AND THINK — IF THE RIHANNA THING WOULDN’T HAVE HAPPENED HE’D BE A PART OF MJ’S TRIBUTE ??????
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:04 PM
Dear MJ,
So,now you can teach the Angels to Moonwalk :) We will always love you 4ever! Peace and Blessings……
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:05 PM
That BET Awards show was an assault on my senses. I had to watch Thriller 200 times back to back to get it out of my head. If there are two stations I can’t stand it’s MTV with their endless white trash reality shows and BET–The Coon Network.
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:06 PM
Thanks for sharing these pics Natasha. That memorial was so beautiful & so sad at the same time. RIP Michael Jackson.
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:13 PM
MAGENTA YOU ARE TOO FUNNY – I’M GONNA HAVE TO WATCH THRILLER 200 HUNDRED TIMES BECAUSE THE BET AWARDS ARE ENGRAINED IN MY PSYCHE AND IT JUST WON’T GO AWAY!! 2 DUDES I WORK WITH (WHITE AND ASIAN) KEEP DOING THE BABY BOY SKETCH AND THEY THINK IT WAS BAD AS* – BET GIVES OTHER FOLKS LICENSE TO THINK NEGATIVELY ABOUT US. MJ ERASED MANY NEGATIVE STEREOTYPES – WHO’S GOING TO DO IT NOW?????
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:16 PM
Yes, I feel you on that one. When Usher touched that casket I was standing strong,but I lost it.
Al and that lady Rep. from Texas let the haters have it.
I was expecting MC to turn that song out. I guess she drank too much Ciroc this weekend.
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:19 PM
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:25 PM
The memorial was so beautiful and well organized; very fitting for Micheal. Kudos to his family, performers, speakers and organizers. I kept my composure until his daughter spoke at the end… So heartbreaking.
He’s gone but never forgotten. R.I.P. MJ.
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:25 PM
Girl Me Too!!! She bought the house down! EVERY reporter on CNN and MSNBC are talking about how great her performance was. She sung her heart out for Mike. I’m still sad :-(
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:26 PM
first i want to say the memorial service was simply beautiful.
to katherine jackson, thank you for your beautiful son.
to michael: for most of girls you were our first boyfriend (in our little hearts and minds, anyway). you are the reason i love music and dance. your kind and gentle spirit inspired others to be giving to their fellow man. you encouraged us that if we want to make changes, to first look within ourselves. your beautiful family is in our hearts and prayers. you will live forever in our hearts and in our minds. never can say goodbye, michael, but i will say peace be with you.
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:27 PM
Debra Lee TODAY was a REAL TRIBUTE to MJ.
Folks were not wearing t-shirts, thick gold chains, running shoes, Tattoos , and gold teeth.
BET was a DISGRACE to the LEGEND and to decent African Americans.
.
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:31 PM
GHETTO ALERT
GHETTO ALERT
GHETTO ALERT
Why can’t you talk like a civilized person for once in your life? get some class in your act and learn to write in proper English.
kisses
*prettywhitegirl*
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:32 PM
I didn’t know when did the brother(Brandon) die?
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:33 PM
Usher did a wonderful job
Jennifer Hudson was simply FAB
Kobe/Magic- good examples on how AA men should dress and speak.
Rev Sharpton–we can always count on him to move the crowd
Queen Latiah–simply FAB
Paris — priceless
I love you MJ
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:36 PM
what does FAB mean? so much ebonics going on lol lol
It was a fitting tribute; a shame he spent his life struggling to be white. Maybe his wish will be granted in his next life.
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:42 PM
I broke down when Usher came to tears, and I still get teary eyed when I hear the news replay Paris’ speech {poor babies} RIP MJ you will surely be missed
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:42 PM
This Memorial Service was nothing short of magnificent! I had been crying since he died…it’s just terrible that it took for this kind-hearted angel on earth to finally recieve the respect that he undoubtly deserved after he has passed away! Let this be a lesson: don’t hold on to the possibility of “tomorrow” to tell someone how u feel, because tomorrow isn’t promised! Give the flowers while people can still smell them! R.I.P Michael…Thank you God for letting us feel how it was to truly have an angel among us!
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:42 PM
I’m just speechless..it’s still don’t feel like this is it…too painful to accept
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:48 PM
^^ FAB is not ebonics. It’s an abbreviation for fabulous, which is used by mainstream media. Ignorance does not become you “prettywhitegirl”.
Can someone please “bleach” this pastey off of the site? No one needs to see her episodic examples of ignorance & retardation in MJ’s post, sheesh.
Anyway… I thought the service was great. While Usher did a nice job singing, I was still put off with him touching the damn casket, what the hell?
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:52 PM
You may be pretty on the outside, or so you claim, but you are hideous on the inside and there’s nothing you can do about it. And like we said before, unlike MJ, when you die, no one will care. Hell, obviously no one cares about you even now which is why you’re here so desperately, pathetically begging for attention. And that’s a shame. But like I said, no matter what you do, no one cares about you, little girl. Sad. Actually no, it’s quite funny. LMAO! Keep posting, you pretty, pretty girl, you’re entertaining! Dance, puppet!
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:54 PM
PARIS HAD ME BALLING, I NEVER CRIED SO MUCH, THIS PROBABLY GONNNA GO DOWN AS 1 OF THE SADDEST DAYS IN HISTORY, GOD BLESS THE JACKSON FAMILY, I WILL ALWAYS LOVE U MICHAEL!!!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 7:56 PM
JERMAINE WAS AWESOME.
HE STILL CAN SING.
I WILL ADMIT WHEN PARIS BROKE DOWN, I GOT CHILLS.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:04 PM
R.I.P Michael. We miss and love you.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:10 PM
R.I.P Michael. We miss and love you.
Everyone sang so nice and beautiful. I was sad when Paris began to talk … Hard it must be for the children and family … Not only that, it is Michale birthday in August 29 …
I hope he has it good now
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:16 PM
YO DADDY WAS NOT STRANGE IT’S WHAT HE HAD TO DEAL WITH THAT WAS STRANGE IF REVEREND AL SHARPTON DID NOT HIT ON THE NOSE. AND THEM KIDS REALLY NEED TO KNOW THAT NOW, ESPECIALLY AS THEY GET OLDER AND HEAR ALL THE EVIL THINGS PEOPLE STILL ARE GONNA BE SAYING ABOUT HIM.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:17 PM
I thought I was the only one who remembered Kim Fields doing that song. I remember thinking that if Tootie couldn’t get him, I didn’t have a chance!
Gone to soon, rest in peace, Michael.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:21 PM
I got in trouble today at work when I was watching the live feed on TMZ.
And it’s not the same to watch reruns – I had to feel the collective emotion with billions across the globe as our precious Michael was laid to rest.
Agree with all the commenters above – this was a TRIBUTE. I loved everything about it – particularly Marlon, Stevie, Brooke Shields, Jermaine, and PARIS.
PARIS, know that we love you and your brothers and hope that that someday you can truly feel the love we the fans have for you and your daddy.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:23 PM
RIP Michael Jackson
Your Already missed!
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:24 PM
FROM TMZ. Michael’s mystery with the number &:
Get ready to have your mind blown. Ready? Here we go …
– Michael Jackson signed his will on 7/7/02.
– Michael Jackson’s memorial was on 7/7/09 … exactly 7 years after the will was signed.
– Michael Jackson’s two biggest hits — “Black & White” and “Billie Jean” — were each #1 for 7 weeks.
– Michael Jackson’s three biggest albums — “Thriller,” “Bad” and “Dangerous” — each produced 7 top 40 hits.
– Michael Jackson was the 7th of 9 children.
– Michael Jackson was born in 1958 … 19 + 58 = 77
– Michael Jackson died on the 25th … 2 + 5 = 7
– Michael Jackson has 7 letters in his first and last name.
7 is a biblical number which carries divine energy – and how fitting that this number would resonate so much throughout Michael’s life.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:26 PM
I loved how ppl brought some sence of humour, like that kfc chicken joke Magic said.
R.I.P Michael.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:26 PM
What a beautiful service. RIP Michael.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:27 PM
I am a grown ass man, but when Paris spoke, my heart broke and I bawled like a baby.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:28 PM
Now how is someone going to request a certain color be worn to their funeral? That is crazy in itself. Secondly, who said she had to follow anybody….white to a funeral is complete appropiate, there’s no funeral clothing rule book written anywhere that I know of.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:30 PM
It was hard to keep a dry eye during this service. I just don’t know what to say or to do. This had truly rocked the world as we know it.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:32 PM
THIS IS HOW A TRIBUTE IS DONE. MICHEAL DESERVES THE VERY BEST AND TODAY I AM PROUD TO SAY HE GOT JUST THAT. THIS TRIBUTE WAS ALL ABOUT HIS LIFE AND GIVING HIM THE WELL AND DESERVED APPRECIATION. BET IS A DISGRACE AND COULD LEARN A THING OR TWO. HIS FAMILY LOOKED LOVELY AND THEY PICKED THE PROPER MUSICIANS AND GUEST SPEAKERS FOR THIS HISTORIC EVENT. LETS PLEASE TRY TO REMEMBER THE POSITIVE THINGS HE HAS DONE AND FORGET THE NEGATIVE ATTENTION. HE IS A LEGEND AND A GOOD SAMARITAN. HOPEFULLY WE CAN ALL LEARN FROM HIS GOOD DEEDS AND FOLLOW IN HIS FOOTSTEPS. RIP MJ!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:38 PM
My heartfelt thanks goes out to the Jackson family. They did not have to allow us all the opportunity to share in this home-going tribute for their son, brother, father, and uncle. They recognized that the his fans are grieving also and wanted to be present to pay tribute to the “greatest entertainer in the world.” Opening the memorial service to us, also humanized Michael beyond more than being an entertainer. For the media and haters that were hoping that the memorial service wouldn’t be done well — they have no other choice but to recognize how well and tasteful everything was done. I have been touched and will forever be touched by Michael Jackson’s music. Now, may Michael Jackson finally have the peace that he deserves. I will continue to pray for God’s comfort for the entire family.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:42 PM
I’m watching on VH1 and this service is beautiful & organized. I thought it would be alot of nonsense and foolish people running around with leather jackets & white gloves. Brooke did an excellent job and you have to remeber that she was the closest thing to him at the height of his popularity.
I pray for the Jacksons. What got me was when Rev Al said to the children, There was nothing weird about your father, What he had to deal with was weird (please don’t get mad if I misquote) That was soooo strong.
Beautiful….
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:47 PM
I HAVE NEVER CRIED LIKE I CRIED TODAY
i know writing in caps is EXTRA, like KANYE WEST,
but i MUST SHOUT OUT THAT WAS THE MOST ELABORATE MEMORIAL
I’VE SEEN .
I BURST INTO TEARS WHEN USHER SANG,
AL SHARPTON GAVE HIS SPEECH
JERMAINE SANG
AND MOST IMPORTANTLY WHEN PARIS SPOKE
THAT PART – I BROKE DOWN – LITERALLY .
TRULY A MEMORIAL FOR A KING
RIP. MICHEAL JOSEPH JACKSON.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:48 PM
amazing .
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:49 PM
and when brooke shields talked about her memories .
i cried .
yet again .
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:51 PM
I hope all the people who tried to damage MJ’s reputation are happy now! I always believed in his innocence – Michael was so childlike and shy, his fear of adults was why he preferred to play with kids.
Gone way too soon, I was looking forward to new magic from MJ on that London tour.
RIP now Michael, as one of the presenters said “God wants you now”. We will never forget the dancing, singing and magic of the King, Michael J. Jackson.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:57 PM
Stop being so classless yourself.You have so much hatred in your heart.It’s obvious as to how you get a cheap thrill out of saying such cruel things.You should really go to church once in a while.May you be blessed anyway.
Tue, July 7, 2009 8:57 PM
I agree with everyone, Stevie, Jermaine, Usher, Marlon, Paris, We Are The World/Heal the World, bed of tears for me, Everything was well done, I felt the love admiration, and appreciation from everyone. AWSOME JOB WELL DONE! Michael IS, WAS, & WILL ALWAYS BE THE GREATEST ENTERTAINER THAT EVER LIVED. People lets try not to get into scrutinizing the ways others mourn or pay respect. Who are we to judge.
It is evident that his kids are in a family filled with love. As someone else said, Janet does look like she’d do great raising those kids and it truely tickled me how Janet gave Paris “THE LOOK” ( we all know it the mama look) but still politely and almost un- noticable when she was wrangling with her cute lil purse on stage. That totally let me know and hopefully the world know, that they are a CLOSE family, regardless of what the media reports. Jackson family you are all in my prayers
Love you Michael may you finally rest in PEACE. xoxoxoxo
Tue, July 7, 2009 9:10 PM
Black people go to church all the time but they are still violent. Just saying…
Tue, July 7, 2009 9:12 PM
Good evening everybody,
I would like to give thanks to Joe and Katherine Jackson for allowing the world to share in their son. Michael J’s music has been the standard of how folks remember their lives. Watching the memorial today, I was glad that I got to enjoy Michael’s music and his videos and on this day of days folks should give thanks that they were able to share in the genius that is Michael Jackson. Today’s memorial is the example of how people should have a home going. The memorial was classy, and special. And I don’t think a person can ask for more than that.
Tue, July 7, 2009 9:15 PM
The tribute was absolutely beautiful & so touching. I cried during 99% of it. I will truly miss Michael Jackson. The amount of love the world has shown for him, his music, is nothing short of amazing.
Even Al Sharpton’s words resonated with me “There was nothing strange about your daddy” “There were strange things he had to deal with” That was a beautiful statement.
Marlon’s speech was great. I’m so overcome with emotion right now. I’m still numb with grief. The world has lost a great one. RIP Michael
Tue, July 7, 2009 9:17 PM
Jennifer Hudson’s performance was so powerful, it gave me chills. I welled up with tears as Jermain sang Michael’s favorite song. Just something about watching a grown man cry-especially under such curcumstances. Michael’s daughter was so pittiful. Those poor children. Supposedly the eldest son was to sing, but because of the emotions he couldn’t. Not sure if this is true, I’d read it on another site. I’m sure Michael taught his kids everything he knew-especially his craft, but moreso about love and the value of a charitable character.
Rest in peace Mr. Jackson.
Tue, July 7, 2009 9:21 PM
You seem to be SLIGHTLY racist and ignorant. Just saying…
Tue, July 7, 2009 9:24 PM
The whole memorial was just beautiful…proper way to send Michael off.
Tue, July 7, 2009 9:26 PM
Western culture is one of the few cultures in the world that believes in wearing black at funerals. Many cultures around the world wear white at funerals–some even wear very bright colors. Depending upon the relationship of the person that has passed, i have also been known to wear white at funerals for family members. White is a VERY spiritual color in many African societies.
I thought the service was so beautiful. It was very touching to see his brothers kiss his coffin after they escorted him. Then we usher walked down to Michael, took his shades off and couldn’t sing the last phrase of the song. …..Whooo…I haven’t cried this much or watched as much TV since 9/11.
Tue, July 7, 2009 9:27 PM
Thats just scary man!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 9:34 PM
I was in tears when Usher started cr
Tue, July 7, 2009 9:36 PM
I HOPE EVERYBODY LEARN SOMETHING ABOUT THE KING OF POP..MJ WAS A GREAT PERSON.I WISH I COULD MEET HIM BEFORE HIS DIE…I WILL NEVER FORGET A MJ..FOR THE FIRST TIME I HEARD HIS KIDS VOICE N FACE…I STILL CANT BELIEVE IT..MJ WAS A GOOD FATHER 2 HIS KIDS…
Tue, July 7, 2009 9:45 PM
So glad that Beyonce was not there. She is so annyoing and there is nothing genuine about her…from acting like she is giving to charities from her heart to making us believe she cares about Politics…she doesn’t. It is her dad trying to ger her out there as much as possible. When President Obama was running, she was no where to be found, but as soon as he was the front runner, she started singing all these America the Beautiful songs and strong armed her way to sing for him. So happy that J-HUD, the real singer and Diva was chosen to sing for Michael. Once again she did not DISAPPOINT, she was FABULOUS.
Tue, July 7, 2009 9:57 PM
I LOVE YOU MICHAEL JACKSON. YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN, THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING!!!!!!!
…RIP, FOREVER MY FIRST TRUE LOVE!
Doue <3
Tue, July 7, 2009 10:01 PM
I HATE FOX NEWS.
I WILL NEVER WATCH REAL HOUSEWIVES OF NEW YORK EVER AGAIN. BETHENNY ON FOX NEWS JOINING IN ON THE BAD MOUTHING OF THE GREATEST ENTERTAINER EVER
Tue, July 7, 2009 10:03 PM
The song that Usher sang…Gone to soon….perfect. An ICON gone to soon.
Tue, July 7, 2009 10:09 PM
j-hud is prego
Tue, July 7, 2009 10:10 PM
Michael you will be missed…
Tue, July 7, 2009 10:10 PM
I cried like crazy the whole time. The King got the love and respect he so desired in life, unfortunately in death.
Also, there is no doubt that those 3 babies are his children. PERIOD. the media should be ashamed of those paternity rumors. All 3 children look like Jacksons. Especially sitting next to and walking with the family, they are JACKSONS, and with the Jacksons they should remain.
God Bless you Michael, and thank you and WE ALL LOVE YOU MORE AND FOREVER!!!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 10:19 PM
First of all I want to say RIP to Mr. Micheal Jackson. You were the true definition of an entertainer and you will be missed for years and years after that. Forget all the controversy we will never forgot what you brought to entertainment. In the words of Marlon “Maybe now they will leave you alone and let your soul rest”. He was so much more than music he did it all even humanitarian work all over the world. May God bless him and his family.
Tue, July 7, 2009 10:20 PM
The service was amazing, Brooke was trying so hard not to cry, u could see she really cared and loved MJ, the rev Al Sharpton spoke the TRUTH “aint NOTHING strange bout your daddy, what was strange was what he had to deal with” Stevie Wonder had me in tears…Usher did his thing…and Paris oh my gosh! well if i wasn’t already teary eyed she just brought it all down…i can’t imagine loosing a parent far less my dad…my heart really goes out to those three beautiful angels! RIP MJ!
Tue, July 7, 2009 10:24 PM
That chick never has anything compelling to say out of her mouth. Her voice is annoying in itself and she thinks she is too damn cute. Maybe if someone realigned her dang jawbone with a fist she wouldnt talk so much!
Tue, July 7, 2009 10:30 PM
I love my black folks. They have always stood by the Jackson. This was unforgetable.
Tue, July 7, 2009 10:34 PM
Paris & Blanket gave me the blues! God bless his kids. R.I.P. MJ
Tue, July 7, 2009 10:38 PM
Very nice comments…..but nobody commented on how John Mayer KILLED Human Nature without singing a word. He made that guitar cry. I loved it. The tribute was King Worthy.
Tue, July 7, 2009 10:38 PM
Woooo..The Jackson sisters look FABULOUS!!!!! Get it Rebbie, LaToya and Janet!
Tue, July 7, 2009 10:45 PM
I CANNOT STOP CRYING!….watching the various recaps of today’s service has me in tears non-stop. WHY am I crying for a man I don’t personally know or ever met? All I can think about when I hear his music is the happy times of my childhood, how he made me smile, how he made me dance hard, how he made me love real hard. Those were good memories, happy times, the world was a good place to be in and Michael brought people together…and for that, I thank GOD for allowing him to be with us for the time he had here on earth. THANK YOU GOD!
Michael was truly gifted and talented and THERE WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER LIKE HIM!
RIP Michael…I know my brother is rocking to his beat in heaven…RIP BOW!
Tue, July 7, 2009 11:00 PM
That fake boob cross-eyed cunt better sit down somewhere. That’s why no man wants her barren fire-crotch ass.
Ugh.
Tue, July 7, 2009 11:08 PM
This was a very emotional program. Micheals death didn’t really hit me until this service. The only thing that really making me feel better about this loss is the fact that now he can finally be happy. When he was on earth, it was clear that he was constantly under pressure and scrotany. I think now he can finally be happy where he is. Micheal your a great man and we will never forget you. We love you forever. R.I.P.
Tue, July 7, 2009 11:08 PM
Being in my early 40s, I’ve followed his career since I can walk and talk. Its too much for me. Its like loosing one of MY family members. You never know when its your last day (or someone you love, admire, “look up to” etc.). *SMH* Just like Marlon said, Maybe NOW they will leave him alone. BUT NOT A CHANCE OF THAT HAPPENING!!!
He is in peace now. What ever happened his last days for him to be “sedated”, NOW he can just rest…
GOD bless you Michael “King of Pop” Jackson.
Tue, July 7, 2009 11:09 PM
The pictures just got me going again…cried at Usher’s performance, and when Marlon and esp Paris spoke.
I think his fav colour as mine is yellow hence the brothers wore the yellow ties…memorials are celebrated best when there is love and support.
I love you Michael J Jackson!
Tue, July 7, 2009 11:22 PM
LOL! That is terrible….. but funny! I was quite upset about that…. Any other year I would have let that slide, but I knew “other” people were tuning in and witnessing that “coonery”, including the preview for the bank robbers movie with martin and jamie…. sigh
Tue, July 7, 2009 11:25 PM
I love my people we are the best can’t nobody do it like we can! R.I.P Michael Jackson!!
Tue, July 7, 2009 11:29 PM
John Mayer was the best musical performance to me they need to put that on itunes seriously!
Tue, July 7, 2009 11:53 PM
THE TRIBUTE WAS AWESOME,IT MADE ME WANT TO BE MORE LOVING AND TOLERATE OF OTHERS. THIS LIFE AS WE KNOW IT IS ALL THAT WE HAVE, TOMORROW IS NOT PROMISED. LIVE TODAY, LOVE TODAY, LAUGH TODAY, AND MOST OF ALL MAKE A CHANGE TODAY!!! MICHAEL JACKSON WILL NEVER LEAVE US, HE REMAINS FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS. PEACE AND BLESSINGS TO HIS CHILDREN AND FAMILY. LOVE YOU MICHAEL!!!!!
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:33 AM
I cried my broken heart out from start to finish. I was good until I saw the brothers putting the casket in the hearse. I really wasn’t prepared to see that. I loved seeing the Jacksons together again. The brothers are still “fine” princes and the sisters are regal princesses. The kids are sooooo precious and mama Katherine is our queen. They are our black royalty at its finest. Loved Rev. Al, my girl Mariah, Usher, Brooke, John Mayer even Kobe and Magic represented for the brothers. And yes I am soooooo glad we did not have to be subjected to gangsta, ghetto, skankish mess like BET threw us. Aren’t we worth more than that? Michael rest in eteneral peace and tranquility. We got it on this side and won’t let you down.
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:37 AM
Definitely a moving and appropriate tribute…EBT–take notes! I also noticed that NO artist who performed at the EBT awards performed at this memorial…And one thing that Rev. Sharpton, Dionne Warwick and Harry Belafonte each said at separate interviews was that the tribute was done with class, grace and fitting for Michael Jackson, because he was a perfectionist (I think was a stab at Coonery channel)
I was watching the “Remember the Time” video and I could have sworn I saw LisaRaye dancing in that video…can anyone confirm?
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:42 AM
Diamond can’t dance so that was not her. The light eyed chick with the braids was a backup dancer for Janet. I think her name was Josie
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:44 AM
This was a classy tribute fit for a KING! RIP Michael. You are among the angels now~
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:46 AM
Damn she looks just like her, esp. with the Count Chocula eyebrows lol (ok that wasn’t right), but that was a dead ringer right there…
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:50 AM
my cousin asked the same thing but i saw someone standing next to janet and latoya she looked like reebie to me. she was on the stage with them. i’m going to check when it comes on again.
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:54 AM
MSNBC is replaying it right now if anyone missed the whole thing. God bless the Jacksons.
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:00 AM
Who was the girl singing the lead for heal the world?
I’m watching Mike’s vids and I think he would’ve been a good actor…
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:01 AM
Reebie is there. She was there to adjust the mike for Paris on the right. She’s also in one of the pictures (the one where all 3 sisters are walking in the hallway; she’s on the right).
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:03 AM
I am cried and am still somber. But this brought a sense of peace. I just wanted to see other share how much he meant, tell of the humanitarian he was, tell of how much he gave to the world, b/c he was too humble to tell these things himself. He was so beautiful, sensitive, caring, forgiving, and yet so strong still. I love him although I never met him and will use his as a example to follow to try to give more than I take in this world and be better. How many ppl can say they have that affect of so many millions of people. An angel, I believe he was, has like Marlon said, done his job here and the Lord has taken him to give him the PEACE he deserves. RIP MJ. NEVER will he be forgotten.
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:07 AM
rebbie is the one wit the shortest hat. There are no clear pics of her face that I could find. I hope God’s angels protect the Jackson clan, especially MJ’s 3 lil angels, from any of the d’evils that come there way.
I can’t believe he’s really gone :(
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:25 AM
Sorry, but I didn’t like Usher’s performance. His touching the casket, wearing MJ’s sunglasses during performance. Neither was apropriate. He was grandstanding. IMO.
Loved all the rest…… RIP Michael.
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:34 AM
I am so happy his family allowed the public to feel like we attended a funeral. It is good to know the world I am talking internationally had the opportunity to unite our voices and say WE LOVE YOU MICHAEL
so those who talk hatred remember that
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:34 AM
AGREE! @ Reenie: Sorry, but I didn’t like Usher’s performance. His touching the casket, wearing MJ’s sunglasses during performance. Neither was apropriate. He was grandstanding. IMO.
Loved all the rest…… RIP Michael.
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:52 AM
LOVE YOU MJ YOU WILL BE MISSED SOOOOOOOOO MUCH, respect to the family thank you for sharing your son with his amazing gifts well appreciated GOD is looking after his spirit NOW!!! Sleep well MJ xxx
Wed, July 8, 2009 2:12 AM
THIS SERVICE WAS SO BEAUTIFUL. EVERYBODY WAS WONDERFUL AND WAS VERY SINCERE. HIS ENTIRE FAMILY ARE VERY BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE INSIDE AND OUT I KNOW HIS KIDS WILL BE WELL TAKEN CARE OF AND LOVED BY THE ENTIRE WORLD.
MICHAEL JACKSON, I LOVE YOU,I WILL MISS YOU AND NEVER WILL FORGET YOU.
Wed, July 8, 2009 2:19 AM
I’ve loved Michael for 22 years. I’ve been on this earth for 22 years. So my whole life I’ve loved Michael. I DON’T know a world without Michael Jackson. I just don’t. I am soo scared to find out what a world without Michael will be like. I know one thing I will carry on his music and his name for the rest of my years. My young family members WILL know who Mike is. He is sooo important, words can’t even express his relevance. Mariah (my girl) she was clearly sad, clearly sad, but did a great job. Usher (tho I am a die hard justin fan) did an EXCELLENT job, he was superb. Jennifer Hudson killed it, and Al Sharpton’s words touched me more than almost anything. Michael was a great person, a great performer, a great singer, a great man, and a great father. His children are his legacy and I wish them strength. I wish his parents and his brothers and sisters strength as well. THANK U MICHAEL FOR 40 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE, FOR GIVING ALL YOUR TIME AND ENERGY TO MAKING OTHERS HAPPY. THANK U FOR CREATING A PLATFORM SO THAT THE “BLACK SUPERSTAR” COULD EXIST. THANK YOU FOR INSPIRING THE ARTISTS OF THIS GENERATION. THANK U FOR YOUR WISDOM AND YOUR STRENGTH. THANK YOU FOR YOUR COURAGE. MICHAEL JOSEPH JACKSON, 1958-2009, thank you!
Wed, July 8, 2009 2:30 AM
you know its funny that bitch bethanny is talking shit becuse i always thought she looked like him.
Wed, July 8, 2009 2:49 AM
okay. so why do i keep replaying john mayer’s rendition of “human nature” over and over on utube? i hope they sell that one and all the proceeds go to michael’s charities. i would def by it!
Wed, July 8, 2009 3:05 AM
This was a truly touching and beautiful memorial service. Such a wonderful tribute to the man that was Michael Jackson. He deserves so much of the love and the praise because he gave up his childhood to accomplish his dreams and to break down barriers for black entertainers, black people, and people all over the world. B. Gordy was right, King of Pop doesn’t fit him HE IS SIMPLY THE KING OF MUSIC, point blank! His children are beautiful and little Paris is the rock for her siblings when she spoke, I got teary and sad for her and her brothers Prince and Blanket because children don’t often understand what is going on now and usuallly the saddest moments when they miss their dad is going to hit hardest down the road in their lives. But the Jackson Family are a strong, wonderful black unit who love and protect each other, they all have such a true and powerful bond as brothers and sisters, and it is clearly that the kids love their family, so they are in the right place. I usually don’t agree with Al Sharpton but his speach was on point WE NEED TO START MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THIS LIFE INSTEAD OF WAITING FOR SOMEONE ELSE TO DO IT OR ACKNOWLEDGE THE WORLD’S PROBLEMS. Michael had the biggest heart and he put his money where his mouth was and donated and raised awareness. Everyone speeches and songs was beautiful and touching, each and everyone of them gave me chills, this is how to pay homage and a tribute to someone, yes BET take note! It was classy and truly memorable. RIP MJ and may your spirit fly and soar, godspeed. Blessing to the Jackson family and the children. You or your music will never, ever be forgotten or rivaled because generations from now will fall in love with Thiller, learn how to do the moonwalk, and get inspire by your music and videos. Well, done brother.
Wed, July 8, 2009 3:35 AM
Wed, July 8, 2009 3:40 AM
RIP Mike ~ The Original King of Pop~
This is for you, aquote from Psalms 62; 1-5
1 Only God can save me,
and I calmly wait for him.
2 God alone is the mighty rock that keeps me safe
and the fortress
where I am secure.
3 I feel like a shaky fence
or a sagging wall.
How long will all of you
attack and assault me?
4 You want to bring me down
from my place of honor.
You love to tell lies,
and when your words are kind,
hatred hides in your heart.
5 Only God gives inward peace,
and I depend on him.
May God Bless your family with peace.
Numbers 6;24
The Jackson family is in my prayers,
You will be missed Mike~
Wed, July 8, 2009 4:22 AM
Did anybody notice that all of MJ’s love interests in his video’s were all black women????? How dope probably dirty Diana was the only white chick, but it wasn’t his love interest!!!! Just thought I put that out there love you MJ you the best we ever had!!!!! xxx
Wed, July 8, 2009 4:54 AM
I swear I thought the same thing. Didnt buy Usher’s act for a second. Trying to pull a “kid is not my son” on his wife. Taking things a little to far. PUHLEASE. Fall back!
Wed, July 8, 2009 4:56 AM
Most of you are definately a bunch of hypocrits especially the one’s questioning whether MJ’s kids are his or not. There are so many biracial entertainers in the industry that if it was not said , y’all would have thought were white. Take for instance our own Mariah Carey. Her mom is white and Dad black. Alicia Keys ain’t no different.
I’m not Black American, but I must say this, I notice that most if not all of you are caught up with colour and shades. Who is white, who is light and shit. You all seem to have an inferiority complex. So what if the kids are lighter than they should be or if they aren’t his !! He loved them like his own and that’s what matters. You who speak about colour and trying to justify all make me sick and ashamed of you lot.
My son is biracial and is just now starting to look mixed, for a great number of years he looked more white than anything, but I didn’t care. It doesn’t matter. Leave the poor kids alone you cunts and get on with it.
The service was touching and I was SOOO happy Beyonce didn’t perform, sick of her anyway. It was classy and the perfect send off for a man, an enigma of a man that impacted on the world in sooo many different ways. I will always love Michael and although my son isn’t near old enought to understand, I’ll make sure he knows about the King of Music, the King of Pop. Rest in peace MJ you were and will forever be ‘the one.’
Wed, July 8, 2009 5:48 AM
it was a very touching moment..too emosh..i couldnt hold it..paris tribute waz very touching..an 11 year old..sending off her daddy..her words..oh mi, i broke down..i lost it completly!..luvd marlons too…”i hope they will now leave you alone michael..”it was touching..rest in peace michael..everyone had a moment of michael jackson in them..even the haters..
Wed, July 8, 2009 6:31 AM
EXACTLY WHAT I WAS THINKING ABOUT WHEN IWAS WATCHING THIS MEMORIAL,THANK GOD THEY DIDN’T INVITE HER FOR THIS PARTICULAR CEREMONY,SHE’S JUST A H..$% THAT WOULD ONLY BE SEEKING PUBLICITY AND NOT AWARE OF APPROPRIATE TIMES.BEYONCE IS ALWAYS SEEKING FOR HER OWN ATTENTION.lETS THATNK GOD AGAIN SHE WASNT AROUND.!!!!!!!!
gOD BLESS TO THE WHOLE JACKSON FAMILY.
Wed, July 8, 2009 6:51 AM
The entire memorial was GREAT. I enjoyed everyone’s participation but the most moving moments for me was Stevie Wonder, Brooke Shields, Usher and Paris. OMG!!! I was crying like I’ve never cried before. I though Usher performance put me over the top, but Paris really had me bawling. R.I.P. Michael I love you. May God protect your children from the evil vultures, a.k.a. – the Media, especially FoxNews.
Wed, July 8, 2009 7:06 AM
What I’m about to write is no different to what everyone else has written. I am amongst the millions who loved Michael to the bitter end and never met him, I don’t care if this sounds cheesey but he made music what it is-he made the media pay attention to black musicians and take them seriously. Think about it-he started at 5 and lived till 50-that’s a long time to be a performer and regardless of all the negativity and lies he still loved people, children, nature the whole world.
MJ is a legend, NOT WAS, he is because his mucic lives on! I will miss him!
The memorial was perfect in every way-can’t believe they put that together in such short time-it felt like a funeral and everybody that sang or made a speech was relevant, Paris and Brooke had me crying like a baby and it reminds me that I loved him and never met him, imagine the pain of someone who loved him and was close to him!
Jackson family-you are up there with the Obama’s when it comes to showing black people in a great light, thank you for Michael.
R.I.P God loves you MJ!
Wed, July 8, 2009 7:25 AM
we’ll miss you so so so much Michael Jackson.You’ve left us too soon and we’ll never find anyone like you.It’s times like these that i desperately want to believe in another life after death and looking forward to seeing you again then.You were the greatest among the greatest.Muaaaah.We love you very much Michael Jackson
Wed, July 8, 2009 7:44 AM
It amazes me that you scrolled through the pictures, watched the memorial service and yet the most profound thing to you is the color of Jennifer Hudson’s dress. Wearing black to a funeral is traditional, BUT she was there to celebrate the life of man who broke many barriers therefore transcending many traditions. I’m guessing that you did not watch the program in its entirety or you would have notice that Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee wore white as well. Whatever color the participants of the memorial service chose to wear is completely irrelevant in comparison to the celebration itself. Exclamation point
Wed, July 8, 2009 7:50 AM
I SHOULDNT SAY THIS BECAUSE ALL OF IT WAS BEAUTIFUL
BUT MY FAVE MOMENTS
BROOKE SHIELDS. man she had me on the verge of crying.
JOHN MAYER. MAN OH MAN. HE GOT TALENT
JERMAINE. STILL CAN SING!!!!!!
PARIS. BLESS HER HEART. SHE MADE THE TEARS FALL.
JHUD. AWESOME.
AND THEY PUT THIS TOGETHER SO QUICKLY.
TAKE NOTES BET AWARDS CREW/ DEBRA LEE. CAUSE MY NERVES ARE STILL ACHING OVER THAT MESS OF A SHOW.
Wed, July 8, 2009 7:50 AM
I SHOULDNT SAY THIS BECAUSE ALL OF IT WAS BEAUTIFUL
BUT MY FAVE MOMENTS
BROOKE SHIELDS. man she had me on the verge of crying.
JOHN MAYER. MAN OH MAN. HE GOT TALENT
JERMAINE. STILL CAN SING!!!!!!
PARIS. BLESS HER HEART. SHE MADE THE TEARS FALL.
JHUD. AWESOME.
AND THEY PUT THIS TOGETHER SO QUICKLY.
TAKE NOTES BET AWARDS CREW/ DEBRA LEE. CAUSE MY NERVES ARE STILL ACHING OVER THAT MESS OF A SHOW.
Wed, July 8, 2009 8:02 AM
THATS HOW YOU PAY TRIBUTE TO THE KING
ORGANIZED ORGANIZE AND ORGANIZE ALMOST CAUGHT THE HOLY GHOST WHEN “REV” AL SPOKE. THE ONLY PART THAT THREW ME OFF WAS GUY WITH THE “CRAZY EYES” AND STILL VERY ENTERTAINING
Wed, July 8, 2009 8:06 AM
R.I.P. Michael. You will always be the greatest of them all Michael. Meet you in the next world.
Wed, July 8, 2009 8:31 AM
I had no interest in watching the games at present….I found a hot place, you guys should try it _~~B l a c k W h i t e l o v i n g.c O m~~____a great place for rich people to meet their soul mates….
Wed, July 8, 2009 8:35 AM
I’m so glad I was able to experience Michael Jackson in my generation.
After hearing all the things this man has accomplished in life, these celebs should be ashamed of themselves and start thinking about others. We need to be more selfless and less selfish.
RIP
:(
Wed, July 8, 2009 8:47 AM
Magnificent!! The memorial was amazing. I knew it would be done right, by the right people. Debra Lee and BET staffers should really take heed to this. This was a program that was put together very quickly and it came out flawless. I thought it was one of the best programs I’ve ever seen. Classy, appropriate and full of the right people paying tribute! I felt like it was one of my own family members. Al Sharpton was superb. Classic speech. Surprisingly one of my favorite speeches came from Brooke Shields. All the performances were great, I think I understand what folks are saying about Usher’s performance. There was something a little eye-brow raising about it. At the end of the day we lost an icon, our icon, black people. That’s what Maya Angelou’s poem was about that Queen Latifah delivered. “We” are the world and “We” had him. He was a humanitarian, an entertainer who wanted us to all be as one and be happy on God’s earth.
Wed, July 8, 2009 8:59 AM
Al Sharpton was on it, it was like a sermon and When he said there wasnt anything strange about your daddy what was strange was how people treated him. That is how you pay a tribute, Bet take note!!
Wed, July 8, 2009 9:01 AM
@cadywhy
I am so tired of people being on this site talking about meeting a rich person, if it happen for you you would be on this site.
Wed, July 8, 2009 9:02 AM
My heart is still breaking..for the Jackson family, for the generations of kids who won’t know him in person, and for mysef. My comments are no diferent than the millions that have been left on blogs everywhere. I’ve loved Michael all of my 25 years and was loking forward to seeing him back on top again. He never took a downfall in my eyes and I appreciate every song, lyric, note, and activist action he made because it represented what true fame and celebrity was to be used for. Michael was certainly and is certainly a king and that memorial was quite fitting. I’m so glad that the Jackson family allowed us- his loyal fans- to take part in his homegoing and I only pray that they know what he meant to the world. I’ve never met Mike, only through his albums (I know yall remember those :D), tapes, CDs, and DVDs but the way he made us feel as if we were on stage with him was nothing short of pure magic.
Thank you Michael for your talent, your compassion, your strength, and your legacy.
Wed, July 8, 2009 9:13 AM
I mean wouldnt be on this site.
Wed, July 8, 2009 9:15 AM
I’m so glad that Michael is out of his suffering and pain on this earth. I always believe that a persons eyes are the window to their souls and when I looked at Michael’s eyes I saw lately pain and suffer. I’m glad that he had his family, friends and most of all the his children whom he loved the most and his fans to give him the love that he gave in return. Michael will be missed in so many ways. I pray their strength in the Lord in these coming days. May god be with them all.
Wed, July 8, 2009 9:34 AM
Diana’s Ross’s son was also there…he wasn’t shown on TV…he looks a LOT like MJ. I was lucky enough to attend the memorial, and afterwards found out the wake was being held at the hotel we were staying at. So I got to see all the Jackson family and the guests as they came inside…we later spotted Usher shopping at nearby LV store…he was really nice (and much cuter in person!) and let us take pics…Rest in Peace Micheal – The world was not ready for you, now you are home, I hope you have the peace you were not able to find in life *Love you MJ
Wed, July 8, 2009 9:47 AM
I noticed that too and it made me think of nothing but the love a family member gives you when they are teaching you how to behave. Those kids are blessed to have her in their life.
Wed, July 8, 2009 10:09 AM
I thank God for J Hud courage, it had to be very hard for her to sing over MJ casket knowing that she just not to long ago buried her own family. Who better to understand a lost then J Hud. I think the Jacksons knew exactly who they wanted to celebrate MJ life, and Beyonce wasn’t included, thank God…. MJ will always be remebered by many, and the many pepole that are and have been negitive about him, may God remind them of judgement day! I really loved Ushers tribute, but I tell you the three things that touched me most were Paris, Al Sharpton, and J hud, because Lord knows I don’t know were she found the courage to sing as well as she did, and not break down! We love you MJ… May you rest in peace, and your spirit remain here on earth….
Wed, July 8, 2009 10:27 AM
I was just about to comment on that! Despite what anyone says about Mike about who he married in real life, ALL his love interests were Black! And they were presented in a very tasteful way. Another note, is that many were dark–Naomi Campbell, and Iman in Remember the time wore darker makeup…Rappers and R&B singers take note!!!
Wed, July 8, 2009 10:37 AM
And about the JHud comment: Did you even consider that maybe they asked her to wear white to show a contrast when all the dancers formed that circle around her? What she wore was appropriate, but damn, that VOICE–she has a powerhouse voice and sang that song beautifully…
Wed, July 8, 2009 10:47 AM
Thank you world for the tribute to Michael Jackson, so well deserved…RIP MJ
Wed, July 8, 2009 11:09 AM
* Agreed–the Jacksons are Black royalty, no matter the good, the bad, or the ugly. They have been through a lot; God bless them all.
* Usher was trying too hard to cry at the end of his performance…I’m sure he meant well and to make an impact on the service, but it seemed contrived
* Maybe it was just me, but didn’t that little boy from Britain’s Got Talent BLOW THE LID off MJ/Smokey’s song??? My teenage daughter called me at work with chills after hearing that child…it was a fantastic choice to have him perform
* Reverend Al took us to CHUUUCH!!! And said it like it was, straight no chaser. And Pastor Lucious took it on home with the prayer at the end too…so fitting
* Personally, I wish Diana could have made it. I also wish the various channels would have shown more of the audience so we could see who all was actually there. A few stars I would have loved to see–Naomi Campbell, Tyra Banks, Chris Tucker, Teddy Riley, Michael Jordan, Justin Timberlake, Spike Lee, Paul McCartney, OPRAH, to name a few…were any of these folks spotted yesterday?
* Heard this morning on a Chicago radio station that Buffoon Entertainment Television (BET) did NOT simulcast like nearly every other television outlet! Is that true? Because if it is, I am too through with that network, especially after the travesty that was their Awards show!
* Stevie is truly a WONDER. He put heart and soul into his performance, and to me was the best at articulating a memorial fit for a KING.
Incredible television, people. The standards have been re-set. Will our stars and celebrities rise to the occasion?
Wed, July 8, 2009 11:20 AM
*You don’t always have to wear black at a funeral*
Wed, July 8, 2009 11:29 AM
I thought I was the only one who felt that way. The celebration was beautiful but Usher seemed so fake to me. especially when he took off his glasses for effect!!! On the J Hud wearing white, people wear white, black, and purple to funerals. I think she looked like and angel.
Wed, July 8, 2009 11:34 AM
John Mayer has gained one new fan–ME!! lol absolutely flawless. I loved Stevie and little Shaheem’s(sp?) performance as well. Maya Angelou’s poem and Randy’s speech were very touching. RIP Michael You are the GOAT.
Wed, July 8, 2009 11:39 AM
* Usher was trying too hard to cry at the end of his performance…I’m sure he meant well and to make an impact on the service, but it seemed contrived
USHER’S PERFORMANCE WAS SO GOOD BUT HE WAS SO FAKE, TOUCHING THE CASKET & THEN SHOWING THAT HE WAS CRYING, BY TAKING OFF THE MJ SHADES. LMAO.. WHO FELL FOR THE BANANA IN THE TAIL PIPE? LMAO
Wed, July 8, 2009 11:39 AM
I will second that motion!!! Your so right and it is sad, because him being apart of that would have shown that he can still rise above all of that mess, jusr like (his idol) Michael did.
Wed, July 8, 2009 11:47 AM
Classy classy classy! And the whole family looked fierce in head-to-toe custom Versace (Janet put in a special request to Donatella because Versace was Michael’s favorite designer). Even little Paris and her bros were decked out in Versace. So beautiful. And Janet and Katherine…I saw ya’ll Loubous. But it wasn’t just the clothes…EVERYTHING was moving and beautiful…JHud, Usher, lil Paris…I cried for 2 hours!
Wed, July 8, 2009 11:48 AM
I totally agree with all of that man I still can’t believe it.
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:00 PM
I honestly have to say this is the best memorial service I have ever witnessed and was fitting for “the King”. I just wish Debbie Rowe will drop off the face of this Earth and leave those kids with their grandmother like Michael wanted. She knows those kids are worth alot now and thats the only reason she wants them. BITCH!
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:03 PM
Umm first of all i would think that jennifer hudson wore white because she looked at it as a celebration….some people do where white to memorials. for all you ignorant people out there. But anyway..i thought it was appropiate and her performance was simply amazing..pregnant stomach and all. Jermaine’s performance had me in tears…i must admit it was beautifully done and i know how much he loved his brother. (Love ya Jermaine). And Usher’s performance left me in sobs and how everybody got around him and consoled him. Including joseph..he meant he was gon get up and hug everybody who walked down that way. I wonder was his outside child there at the funeral?? let me stop. i love me some joe too.
Now my ipod is full of michael jackson songs and he’s all i been watching. (his interviews, i recorded the memorial service, videos, and cnn). Im a huge fan even in death. now you can finally REST IN PEACE! “Maybe now they will leave you alone michael” – Marlon Jackson!
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:10 PM
To something that calls herself pretty but I am sure your soul is not. I speak and write english very well Iam 5 months away for gradurating with my master’s in Psychology tell me what you done with your miserable life. People who can do people who can’t talk s**t. Is your life so miserable that the only way you can get anyone to talk you is to get on a website and act the fool? Michaeal Jackson touch lifes and left a living legacy that will live on despite him not being here. When you leave this world will anyone moan your passing are will they said good that BITCH has left this world and by the way happy day. Being white, black or any other ethnic group doesn’t mean that you are smarter or can write or speak proper english. Does it make you feel better to try to put other people down you much be a very small and petty individual however, it takes all kind of people to make this world go round. You can response back however I will not play your game because you need the attention. You poor sad little girl so much anger not enough love and look what you get a half ass not so smart individual with delusions and grandiose ideas that they are actual better than the next person. Because if you were better you would have to keep announcing it to the world. I will give you a quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. ” Never look down on person unless you are giving them a hand up” But I am sure fromyour comments that will never happen. Be careful Karma can be a bitch as the old adage what goes around come around meaning what you put out will come back to you so be careful God don’t slap the taste of your nasty little mouth.
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:12 PM
I thought it was a very beautiful service reminds me of many homegoings I have attended for my loved ones. It made it all very real for me. Never has the Jackson family in my opinion seem as normal as they did yesterday. Nothing bad to say here at all… RIP Micheal
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:17 PM
I’m really glad I stayed home to watch the memorial. I loved every minute of it. I feel it was grand enough befit him, yet at the same time it felt very intimate. I cried as if I knew him.
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:24 PM
I loved the tribute cried several times, it is a shame that a man who wanted to be loved the way he was yesterday couldnt get it while he was alive. I have nothing bad to say about anyone from the tribute. I felt like we had a little church going on with Al. I dont know why but I wanted to her from his mom so bad but that is ok
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:24 PM
Michael is the best, truly the best of ALL tims. Now this is what we call an ICON! He was talented, gifted, never have to do much to move people, he could write , dance, entertain,his heart was so big… etc… We would never have someone else like that! Its so sad!
On another note, what was mariah doing?? Damn girl, just retire, your voice is gone sweetie!
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:34 PM
For those who are doing it- I don’t think it’s fair to compare the BET awards to the MJ memorial. Though I agree that the BET awards were less than perfect (ok it was terrible) I wouldn’t compare an award show to a memorial service. It’s two different things.
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:45 PM
I will always Love you Michael Jackson. And thank you for being you.R.I.P
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:45 PM
thank u!!! i was wondering was that rule written in stone somewhere that black has to be worn at funerals…
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:53 PM
This memorial was so fitting to Michael, It was so good to see his family, and how they showed so much love for everyone.
Can’t believe you have gone Michael, you are the King of Pop.
love Alicia xx
Wed, July 8, 2009 12:54 PM
I think some of you are so pathetic for being grateful Beyonce was not at/apart of this service. No, it isn’t it about her, but if she wanted to be there, I don’t see any problem with her doing so. Other big name stars, including Justin Timberlake, were not there either. I don’t see anyone else celebrating them not being there either.
*End of rant
I thought the service was absolutely beautiful. Usher really moved me with “Gone Too Soon.” Rev. Al Sharpton spoke extremely well, but little Paris was the highlight. So sad.
Long live the King of Pop!
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:00 PM
Do either one of you know her personally to make those assumptions? No. I love how people claim she’s so fake and don’t know anything about her. Sad.
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:20 PM
I meant * a part.
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:25 PM
we love you Michael!!!!!
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:27 PM
R.I.P MIKCHAEL JACKSON!!!!! He was the greatest performer in the world and will always be. His memorial was BEAUTIFUL and Paris made me cry harder than I was already doing. My prayers are to the family and he will always be in our hearts. Like Brooke said when we look up to the sky all we can do is smile. I LOVE YOU MICHAEL JACKSON!!!!
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:38 PM
What a beautiful tribute! Really, I don’t think it could have been done any better. Rest In Peace MJ.
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:38 PM
Michael rocked my world and gave me butterflies!
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:43 PM
The whole ceremony had me crying and I will never forget the day he died..I think its now up to the Jackson family to look over his children and make sure they continue to raise them the way Michael raised them..I did not appreciate some of the talk on CNN from Campbell Brown and this other guy with glasses that was on CNN talking about Michael Jackson…it says alot about the people that talk cruely about the dead after seeing Paris Jackson talk about her daddy..There are people that had no respect for Michael that softened their opinions about him after seeing his daughter speak..I have been a fan for life of his music even when people abandoned him..Appreciate people when they are living because when they die its too late to let them know..Michael was too big for this world..he had no ignorance in his body..he was humble and had a heart of gold..Many people lack that…He’s in a better place now with God..People can say whatever they want but God has the last word..thats the only word that matters the most
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:50 PM
I totally agree! If the family chooses to wear white, fine. But Jennifer should have worn black. All in all she did a GREAT job!! But, I don’t think she s/h had on a white dress.
And Chris should have had on a suit. Show a little more respect.
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:54 PM
The memorial was beautiful! What a profound loss to the family. In spite of all the negative attention Chris Brown has been getting, I am still glad that he was there to pay his respect. It’s obvious when you watch Chris dance that Michael was a true inspiration to him.
This is a lot of love for one man. He gave so much of himself without hesitation. This huge farewell was so deserving.
Love you forever Michael!
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:57 PM
Oh I forgot to say THANK YOU TO THE JACKSON FAMILY FOR ALLOWING US ALL TO SHARE IN SAYING GOODBYE TO A BEAUTIFUL MAN!!!
Wed, July 8, 2009 1:59 PM
Like who really gives a damn that she wore white but you two! As if that was really on the families mind!
Wed, July 8, 2009 2:01 PM
There was nothing wrong with Chris’s attire and like who really gives a damn that Jennifer wore white but you two! As if that was really on the families mind!
Wed, July 8, 2009 2:13 PM
This is not the post for such nonsense. Go into the Halle Berry post with this mess.
Wed, July 8, 2009 2:16 PM
R.I.P MICHAEL I’M GOING TO MISS U!!!!!!!!!!!!! PEOPLE STOP FIGHTING WE JUST LOST THE KING OF POP!!!!!!!!!! WHO CARE ABOUT WHAT PEOPLE HAD ON AS LONG THEY WAS THERE TO SHOW HIM LOVE!!!!!!!!!
Wed, July 8, 2009 2:30 PM
Knew someone had to bring up Beyonce, can we have a post without someone referring to her, I like her music not acting but this is not about her. Also I kinda wondered about the white dress with J but nowadays I guess everone wears whatever and thinking about MJ he loved to wear white and be colorful so it was ok.
Wed, July 8, 2009 2:37 PM
What I want to know is where was Jermain Dupree?
Wed, July 8, 2009 2:56 PM
This MJ tribute messed me up. My eyes were swollen this morning from crying watcing this. A few things made me sad, one is that I hope Michael knew how much we in the U.S loved him. Everywhere he went in the world they showed unconditional love…except for his country. To see that man broken down the way he was these past ten yeas was painful as a fan to watch. Sure, Michael may have made some questionable decisions…but I never once beleived he was pervert or child molester. This was a man that sacrificed his childhood so that he could entertain ours…he always had kids around him because they were the only ones that understood him and didn’t judge him..they never demanded anything from him other then to be HIM. He built Neverland and donated so much to childrens charities because he enjoyed seeing kids happy and lived his childhood through them.
Michael may have looked a little strange to others, but to his kids he looked like a father…they dont know anything else so to them, he didn’t look strange and they didn’t treat him like some sort of freak. It just breaks my heart that people and the media played a role in the distruction of Michael..the man was the greatest entertainer of our time and he hailed from America and represented us, he was ours and we took part in destroying him. If that memorial taught me anything its that Michael was a very fragial soul in a very cruel world. The other thing that made me sad is that music will never be the same. Michael was so original and did things his way..there are so many artists that built their career of of Michael. There is hardly no one in that business that reinvents themselves the way he did…there will never be an artist that sold records as high as he did. NEVER. I just hope that people, especially black people, start learning how to appreciate greatness while its here and not when its gone.
Wed, July 8, 2009 3:02 PM
It was a really great memorial. Just beautiful. I love how his family is close and loving towards his children. On all the other websites – the white ones I’ll be blunt, they keep saying that those aren’t his blah blah. He raised them and they are his children. I don’t see those type of comments on here. I myself have family who aren’t related to be by blood but they are my family and I love that just as much. The Jacksons love those children and you can see that and they accept. If they are his biologically or not. I guess white people who comment aren’t as accepting if their family members had black children. It’s sad that people still try and be hurtful even in this mans death. Leave him alone like his brother said. Please.
I couldn’t help but cry when his daughter spoke and I’m glad she did. That was her daddy no matter what and she clearly loved him. I really tried not to cry but I did.
Wed, July 8, 2009 3:09 PM
@R
I agree. I’m mixed and I’m not American either but a lot of whites and blacks in America are very caught up in color and race. It’s ridiculous in 2009 when your very own president is biracial! And many people wouldn’t know just looking at him. I’m biracial black and white and people don’t know I’m mixed either. It’s stupid. Does anyone question Brad Pitt about his children? No because he is raising them so he is their father. He raised them from birth. Enough already the Jackson family doesn’t care if they are his biologically or not because that’s their family. God people make me mad. The man will always be criticised even in death. Anyone who is different is a freak. That what he always said. Chilren never judged him, it’s always adults who should KNOW BETTER who act childish and ridicule people.
Wed, July 8, 2009 3:53 PM
Atleast rappers MARRY and share their wealth with black women unlike Michael did! I love Michael to death but now that he’s gone his fortune is going right back to the white community…Atleast he gave ALOT to charities…
Wed, July 8, 2009 4:07 PM
Yeah, how many rappers you know get married?? And even so, that means it’s okay to marry us, but shit on us on camera?? Michael was never really in a long term relationship with anyone, and I do appreciate how he represented Black women. How is his fortune going to the white community? Besides the debts he has to pay, the majority of his estate is willed to his mother, children, and charities…
Wed, July 8, 2009 4:25 PM
Thank you, Michael Jackson. As someone who was born and raised in Africa, I thank you so much for giving a voice and face to the plight of our continent. Thank you for putting Africa in your thoughts, in your music. From the catchy “soul makossa”, the Remember the Time video, the song ‘Liberian Girl’, the Earth Song and most importantly, “We are the World.” It is my prayer that everyone learns from your example and that we may all seek to make a brighter day.
Africa loves MICHAEL JACKSON! RIP, brother. Thank you for visiting my country Kenya.
Wed, July 8, 2009 4:43 PM
stupid lil white girl jennifer kate hudson is pregnant and lookin damn good so shut up. plus is did a marvelous job at hte funeral.
Wed, July 8, 2009 5:38 PM
I WAS SO MOVED I CRIED ALL THRU THE SERVICE . WHEN USHER SONG I CRIED. WHEN
Wed, July 8, 2009 5:48 PM
Wed, July 8, 2009 5:50 PM
THANK YOU!! I thought me and my bf were the only ones to see that. This was a memorial service not your time to shine fing hasbeen!
Anyways other than that is was a beautiful service and I cried the entire time. Loved loved loved Al Sharpton’s speech. It made me remember the reason I love MJ. Truly Superman. I will love you always MJ!!
Been geeking out on MJ vids on youtube since Saturday. Anyone watched the Jackson Variety Shows yet? On the jackstill78 channel. Michael was so frigging sexy. I was born in the wrong era man!
Wed, July 8, 2009 7:04 PM
I have so many very fond memories of Michael. To be honest, he’s been in my life most of my life. I am absolutely blown away by his sudden death. Remembering getting yelled at for watching his cartoon on Saturday’s instead of going to my piano lesson. Or going to the record store for my mom to pick up “Who’s lovin’ you” so she could groove while cooking.
Just thinking about the world’s loss, makes me sad.
Take a lesson from Mike, God gives us special talents and gifts – we are to share them with the world. Michael Jackson was a very good Steward of his God given gifts. He will now be performing for the Best of the Best! RIP!
Wed, July 8, 2009 9:15 PM
black people “fat” and white people “fat” are totally different. White folks think 130#’s is fat. If you’re black you have to be over 250 before we think “fat” and there’s still a “ph” in front of it. do your black people homework before you say things on the YBF.
Thu, July 9, 2009 2:44 AM
I thought I was the only one who felt that way. The celebration was beautiful but Usher seemed so fake to me. especially when he took off his glasses for effect!!! On the J Hud wearing white, people wear white, black, and purple to funerals. I think she looked like and angel.
Thu, July 9, 2009 7:10 AM
R I P Michael J Jackson……..u whr great
Thu, July 9, 2009 8:23 AM
God gift send to us from above,accomplished his mission on earth now of to heaven to prepare the paradise music.i swear we gonna rock in heaven day n night.God needed u i know RIP.
Thu, July 9, 2009 8:27 AM
God gift send to us from above,accomplished his mission on earth now of to heaven to prepare the paradise music.i swear we gonna rock in heaven day n night.love. RIP.
Thu, July 9, 2009 8:42 AM
I AM 43 YRS OLD, I GREW UP WITH THE KING, I OWN EVERYTHING THE MAN HAS EVER DONE. ON JUNE 25,2009 I LOST A MEMBER OF MY FAMILY. MY GRANDMA, MOTHER, DAUGHTERS( 22,15,8) ARE AFFECTED BY THIS AS IF WE R BURING A MEMBER OF THE FAMILY WHICH WE R. I WILL MISS U MICHAEL BUT WILL NEVER FORGET U, EVER. TO THE FAMILY OUR PRAYERS AND LOVE R WITH YOU AS WELL. RIP MR. JACKSON FOR YOU ARE THE KING OF ALL.
LOVE AND REMEMBERANCE,
TYESE JOHNSON
Thu, July 9, 2009 3:49 PM
I peeped that too!That was her
Thu, July 9, 2009 10:32 PM
r.i.p Mj lOvE U JhUd
Fri, July 10, 2009 2:28 PM
The prodigies came out in full force of our beloved…
STEVIE WONDER is TRUE GENUIS!!! When he sang “they wont go” I LOST IT! Incredible.. and no other song could have been so right for our beloved.
Brother Sharpton, if they didn’t know why he could bring a packed church to their feet as a child.. they know now!! I jump to my feet..”Ain’t nuthin strange bout yo daddy, it was strange what he had to deal wit!” AMENNN!
I grieved and am still grieving at this massive loss. He was almost unearthly.. so far ahead of all of us. The world persecuted him for what they did not understand.. he was the greatest gift of our generation, divine love is really all he had in his heart and he shared it with the WHOLE world.. unselfishly! He sacrificed his childhood and will be the eternal man-child…pure and innocent. I love u Michael!!
Fri, July 10, 2009 2:32 PM
YEESSSS!!!! I could have bitch slapped usher’s lil punk ass.. fake ass.. dry ass tears!!! I was maadddddd about that! Nf he’s the only one who went to the casket.. DISreSPECTUL lil heffa.. none of the family went near it!
Sat, July 11, 2009 2:04 PM
The memorial service was just well put together. Even if BET had years to put it together, it would’ve still been bunch of nonsense and a hot mess, so i hope BET can learn.
I think it was ok, for Jennifer Hudson to wear white, because she’s been through a lot herself, and singing at MJ’s memorial will be too much for her, and she’s pregnant, so wearing white is probably a way to console herself. She looked nice and her voice was just amazing with that big belly.
It’s interesting how many people felt like Usher was been fake, but who knows maybe it was real because M.J is like his mentor. Mariah Carey had a hard time, but it’s ok, because she’s still one of the best female singers ever, and can give all these young ones a run for their money anyday.
I was so happy that Paris talked, because it was like even though the world see my father as a strange person, he’s the best daddy ever, that just did it for me, because it can’t get any better than that. I also like Brooke Shield’s speech. The family looked great. I can tell it has not yet sinked in for Blanket, i mean he’s young, but my heart really goes out to the kids, and i hope Joe Jackson does not come near those kids, if Katherine ends up having the kids, she should put a restraining order on Joe. I’m sorry, he’s just a hot mess. I can see Janet been a good aunt, and it looks like she’ll be a good mother. So get ready Janet for motherly duties. My heart goes out to Katherine, she’s the backbone for the family. R.I.P M.J