Jackson Family Majority Pull Out of Badly Timed Tribute

The Jackson family is in a rift over the timing of a tribute concert for the King of Pop, which has lead to the announcement by the Jackson brothers that it is impossible to be involved in an event that has been so ill timed.

Brothers Jermaine and Randy Jackson have expressed that they are unhappy the concert that will take place at the Cardiff Millennium Stadium will take place during the trial of Conrad Murray on Oct.8th, who faces charges of manslaughter for giving Michael Jackson an overdose of the sedative Propofol.

" We find it impossible to support an event that is due to take place during the criminal trial surrounding Michael's death," they said adding that the majority of the Jackson family was opposed to the date.

One key supporter of the event is Jackson's mother Katherine. "Michael gave his entire life to the world through his love, his music and his devotion to healing the planet," Katherine Jackson said speaking at a Press Conference for the announcement of the concert. She said the concert would be "a worthy celebration of his life".

Following the Press Conference the two brothers issued a statement: (via the BBC)

"Today's press conference in Los Angeles announced a tribute concert to Michael to be attended and supported by the Jackson family.

"However, we want to make clear that this does not reflect the position of the entire family."

"While we wholeheartedly support the spirit of a tribute that honors our brother, we find it impossible to support an event that is due to take place during the criminal trial surrounding Michael's death.

"As everyone knows, those proceedings commence September 20th, and this Michael Forever concert takes place in Cardiff, Wales, on 8 October.

"In light of this, we feel it is inappropriate to be involved with such an ill-timed event and its promoter, Global Live.

"Furthermore, the decision to proceed with this concert disrespects opinions and wishes expressed in the strongest terms to Global Live during conversations in April when this event was presented to the majority of the family as an idea already in its advanced stages.

"There will come a time and place for an amazing and deserving tribute to Michael. But we feel that the most important tribute we can give to our brother at this time is to seek justice in his name."

No acts have been announced for the concert yet but the organizers Website states, " The world's greatest artists will appear." The concert will be broadcast across 30 countries in 2D and 3D. The BBC has reported that the singer's sister La Toya and brothers Tito, Marlon and Jackie, were in support of the event.