Michael Jackson’s family are up in arms saying that the pop singer is innocent of the sexual abuse claims on ‘Leaving Neverland’ documentary.
Four members of Michael Jackson’s family have given an interview to defend the late pop star ahead of a controversial new documentary.
According to an article by BBC, speaking about Leaving Neverland on CBS, brothers Tito, Marlon, and Jackie and nephew Taj Jackson rejected the film’s claims that he abused children. Taj said his uncle’s behavior seemed odd to some, but was “very innocent”, adding: “His naivety was his downfall” while Marlon said there was “not one piece of evidence” to back up the allegations. Marlon added: “If Neverland was so horrifying for them, why would you keep going back?”
None of the Jacksons who were interviewed on CBS’s This Morning had watched the documentary. “I trust my attorney,” Marlon explained.
Asked whether they ever found Michael Jackson’s behavior around children odd such as sharing a bed with children, Taj replied: “I grew up in it so for me it wasn’t odd. I think to the outside world, yes, it can be odd, I mean I’m not oblivious to what it sounds like. On the other hand, Jackie said: “I know my brother. He’s my little brother. I know my brother. He’s not like that,” while Taj added: “It’s always been about money, I hate to say it about my uncle, it’s almost like they see a blank cheque.”
Fellow brothers Jermaine and Randy Jackson did not take part in the CBS interview, and nor did Michael Jackson’s sisters, including LaToya and Janet. But the group said every member of the family “feels the same way”.
The infamous documentary that premiered at Sundance Festival in January features victims, James Safechuck and Wade Robson who claim they were abused by the singer as children. As previously reported by The Sauce Michael’s elder brother Jermaine last month said in an interview that there was “no truth” in the two-part film.
The “Man in the Mirror” singer was on trial in 2005 for sexual abuse but cleared of all charges at his trial. He died four years at the age of 50 on June 25th, 2009.
The documentary will air on HBO in the US in March. Michael Jackson’s estate is now suing HBO for $100m (£77m), claiming the film breaches a non-disparagement clause in an old contract.
