Jackson Family: "There Will Be No" Public Neverland Memorial

Us Magazine - July 1, 2009 11:45 AM PDT
Story photo: Jackson Family: Michael Jackson arrives at the 2006 World Music Awards at Earls Court on November 15, 2006 in London. Frank Micelotta/Getty ImagesUs Magazine
A reported public viewing of Michael Jackson's body at Neverland Ranch this Friday will not happen, the Jackson family's rep tells Usmagazine.com.

"Contrary to previous news reports, the Jackson family is officially stating that there will be no public or private viewing at Neverland," their rep told Us in a statement Wednesday. "Plans are underway regarding a public memorial for Michael Jackson, and we will announce those plans shortly."

While CNN reported the singer, 50, who died of cardiac arrest last Thursday, would be on display this week, a source also tells Us the family is having problems getting the proper permits from Los Olivios, Calif. officials.

See photos of Michael Jackson and his kids.

It may be moved to the Staples Center in Los Angeles, the source says.

The Associated Press cites a separate source who says a funeral and burial will likely take place in Los Angeles. The source confirmed "nothing is planned for Neverland, at least through Friday."

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A source at the California Highway Patrol told Us they had "not received any official word [from Neverland or the Jackson Camp] as to whether it's going to happen."

A private memorial service for family and close friends may take place at the 2,500-acre ranch, near Santa Barbara, after the funeral, the AP reports.

A family source tells the AP that billionaire Thomas Barrack, who jointly owns Neverland with Jackson, is seeking an exemption to bury the singer at the ranch. But the source points out it's a complicated process that wouldn't be complete in time for a burial this week.

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"The family is aware a Neverland burial is not possible. They are expected to make decisions about whatever funeral and memorial service will take place," the source said.

When asked about cremating Jackson and scattering his remains at the ranch, the source said: "That's not the plan."

On Tuesday, a moving truck and heavy construction equipment were seen entering the compound's wrought-iron gates.

See Michael Jackson's life in photos.

The mayor of Gary, Indiana, where Jackson was born, has also lobbied for the singer to be buried there. The town plans to hold a large memorial later this month.

Meanwhile, a 7-year-old will was filed in Los Angeles court today. Jackson left his $500 million fortune to a family trust and various charities. He "intentionally" left out Debbie Rowe, the mother of his two oldest children, Prince and Paris.

He also named Diana Ross as a back-up guardian to his children after his mom, Katherine.


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comments 1-10 of 50  |< newest · < newer · older > · oldest >|  hide comments · post a comment
  • WinsomeW
    I grew up with michael.poster all over my room.he will be missed I dont care what the public says he is a good person and I pray God welcome him into his Kingdom of Heaven amen
    report abuseposted July 4, 2009 11:25 AM PDT
  • Fire!
    Lucy, lucy Lucy you musta had such stupid azzz parents. because you are very stupid. Dont hate cause it not u or someone in you dumb family that can leave somethng. michael jackson you are loved and always will be. rest in peace.
    report abuseposted July 3, 2009 8:12 PM PDT
  • Gavin
    LUCY!!!!! That wasnt nice at all...if u have nothing nice to say plz dont say nothing!!!! I loved him then and now
    report abuseposted July 2, 2009 12:23 PM PDT
  • Gavin
    I feel real sad for (micheal's) mom and childern,and why is MS ROWE,JACKSON coming back for the kids now???? TRUST IT'S THE MONEY !!!!
    report abuseposted July 2, 2009 12:18 PM PDT
  • JOANE...
    I feel sorry for the family and esp for the children of jackson.I was a fan of his and whatever he did in the past ...well should remain And whatever he was a human being that made mistakes,now he's in Gods hands God bless you M J
    report abuseposted July 2, 2009 3:42 AM PDT
  • TRACEY
    if you get a chance muchmusic is playing a short video movie called Michael Jacksons Ghost--its pretty sureal-- the words are incredible and the whole meaning behind the video is pretty close to what happened--my thoughts are with his children, who don't really care what any of us think or speculate they have lost someone they love very much--imagine how they feel -
    report abuseposted July 1, 2009 4:29 PM PDT
  • TRACEY
    im shocked, what a huge loss for all who enjoyed watching him perform, if you have every listened to an interview im convinced the transformation started to become the ultimate performer for his fans, and to have the girls swarming(he hated how he looked as a young person)i was looking forward to the new tour to see what new dance or hit would arise out of this phenominal talent. we love ya-T
    report abuseposted July 1, 2009 4:22 PM PDT
  • M
    Lucy, get a life. Leave Michael alone. He was a genius and a great performer, dancer, singer, and an incredible humanitarian. He obviously was not at peace in this life, though, so hopefully he can find that peace in the next life. Respect him in death, even if you didn't respect him in life.
    report abuseposted July 1, 2009 4:10 PM PDT
  • betty
    He is the king of pedophiles!!!
    report abuseposted July 1, 2009 3:46 PM PDT
  • betty
    MICHAEL IS ONLY A CELEBRITY IN THE MINDS OF SIMPLE....PATHETIC LOSERS....THAT HAVE NOTHING TO LIVE FOR!!!!!!!
    report abuseposted July 1, 2009 3:46 PM PDT
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