George Michael postpones tour due to pneumonia

LONDON (Reuters) - British singer George Michael has been forced to postpone the rest of his European tour due to ongoing treatment for "severe" pneumonia, his spokeswoman said on Friday.

But she denied reports that the former Wham! frontman was suffering from serious heart problems and was "slowly improving" in hospital in Vienna.

"George Michael is ill with pneumonia and any other speculation regarding his illness is unfounded and untrue," she said in a statement.

"He is receiving excellent medical care; he is responding to treatment and slowly improving."

His doctors advised that the chart-topping artist behind such solo hits as "Careless Whisper" and "Faith" should postpone the rest of his Symphonica tour.

He is being treated by Christoph Zielinski and Thomas Staudinger, who said in a joint statement:

"George Michael has severe community acquired pneumonia and is being treated as an inpatient. His condition has stabilized and he is responding to treatment.

"From the current point of view, the time until recovery cannot be estimated, but he will not be able to perform the rest of the tour. Besides medical treatment, complete rest and peace and quiet are mandatory."

All British dates of his Symphonica European tour have been called off, including three this month and 11 in December.

Further announcements will be made once the gigs can be rescheduled, and ticket holders were asked to retain their tickets.

(Reporting by Mike Collett-White, editing by Paul Casciato)

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Michael Jackson's doctor guilty of manslaughter

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Michael Jackson's personal doctor was found guilty on Monday of involuntary manslaughter in the pop star's drug-related death in 2009 but may not spend much time in jail.

Dr. Conrad Murray, 58, was led away in handcuffs after the jury in Los Angeles reached a unanimous verdict. Dozens of fans outside the court erupted in cheers and some burst into tears.

"Justice was served. Michael is with us," said Jackson's brother Jermaine.

Murray faces up to four years behind bars when he is sentenced on November 29 but may spend only months in Los Angeles' overcrowded cells.

Murray pleaded not guilty to giving the "Thriller" singer a fatal dose of the powerful anesthetic propofol -- normally used in surgery -- that was ruled the main cause of his death at the age of 50.

Prosecutors argued Murray was grossly negligent in administering the propofol to help Jackson sleep. Defense lawyers claimed Jackson delivered the fatal dose to himself.

The judge ordered Murray, who had been free on bail for two years, held in custody until his sentencing. The doctor did not testify at the six-week trial and looked impassive as the guilty verdict was announced in the packed courtroom.

Jackson's mother Katherine and sister Rebbie cried silently at the result. Other family members in court included his siblings La Toya and Randy, along with his father Joe.

"I am," Katherine Jackson said when reporters asked if she was pleased with the verdict.

Jackson was found lifeless at his Los Angeles mansion on June 25, 2009, about three weeks before he was due to begin a series of concerts in London aimed at returning him to the limelight after the humiliation of his 2005 trial and acquittal on child molestation allegations.

Murray admitted giving Jackson a small dose of propofol to help him sleep. But his lawyers argued the singer was dependent on the drug and likely gave himself an extra, fatal dose -- and swallowed a handful of sedatives -- without Murray knowing.

"THE CAUSATIVE FACTOR"

Murray's lawyer J. Michael Flanagan was asked by reporters if he was disappointed and he replied: "Of course."

Prosecutors said Murray was negligent for administering the drug in a home setting, failing to monitor Jackson, delaying a call to emergency services and failing to tell medical personnel he gave the singer propofol.

Judge Michael Pastor said Murray was "now a convicted felon who has been deemed the causative factor in Michael Jackson's death."

Pastor said the doctor should be detained before being sentenced to protect public safety.

Even if Murray is sentenced to the maximum four months, legal experts said involuntary manslaughter is not considered a serious felony in California law and carries a stipulation that only 50 percent of any sentence must be served behind bars.

Because of jail overcrowding, officials could release him after only months.

"It's pretty obvious by putting him in custody, which was the biggest surprise of the entire trial, that we're probably looking at a sentence of three to four years," Stan Goldman, a professor at Loyola Law School, told Reuters.

But he added: "I'd be surprised if a year from today Conrad Murray was still behind bars."

Still, Jackson fans were overjoyed. On the street outside the court, more than 100 of them whooped with joy and chanted "Thank you judge" as the verdict was read live on television.

Bus driver Dana Brenklin, 35, burst into tears.

"Of course it's not enough and it's not going to bring back Michael. But for two years, I had a project, justice for Michael Jackson, and I got what I wanted," Brenklin said.

Trial watchers said the guilty verdict was almost assured.

Prosecutors were required to prove only that Murray was reckless in his care. The judge told jurors the doctor could be found guilty even if the jury believed Jackson gave himself the propofol, as long as such a possibility was foreseeable.

"The prosecution did a great job of creating a portrait (of Murray) that asked 'Is this how someone would have acted if he was responsible?'" said Marcellus McRae, a former federal prosecutor who is now a trial lawyer with the New York-based law firm Gibson Dunn.

(Additional reporting by Piya Sinha Roy; Editing by Bob Tourtellotte and John O'Callaghan)

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Michael Lohan denied bail in Florida (AP)

TAMPA, Fla. – The estranged father of actress Lindsay Lohan has been denied bail in Florida.

Hillsborough County jail records show Michael Lohan was being held Saturday without bond on four charges.

He was arrested on domestic violence charges Tuesday. His bail was set at $5,000 and a judge warned him not to make any contact with his on-and-off girlfriend. Two days later, he was accused of violating the terms of his release by making a harassing phone call to her.

Police went to arrest him and he tried to avoid them by jumping off a third-floor balcony at a Tampa hotel. He was injured and had to be taken to the hospital.

He was released from the hospital Friday and put back in jail.

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Michael Jackson's children appear at tribute show (AP)

CARDIFF, Wales – Chart-toppers, soul singers and three generations of Michael Jackson's family — including his children — celebrated the King of Pop at an energetic tribute concert Saturday, urging fans to focus on the late star's music rather than his death.

The run-up to the "Michael Forever" concert was overshadowed by the Los Angeles manslaughter trial of Jackson's doctor, and marred by fan criticism, sluggish ticket sales and dissension within the Jackson family. But once the four-hour show started, Jackson's musical genius, and the warm tributes of friends and family, carried the night.

"We're very happy to be here on this special night to honor our father," said Jackson's 13-year-old daughter Paris, who made a brief onstage appearance alongside brothers Prince, 14, and 9-year-old Michael Joseph Jr., known as Blanket.

The children wore outfits evoking their father's famous styles — Paris most strikingly, in a red and black "Thriller"-style jacket. Blanket stood stoic and shy, but the older children smiled and appeared confident in the spotlight.

On a stage shaped like a giant glove, musicians including Christina Aguilera, Gladys Knight and Cee Lo Green performed songs from across Jackson's career — from his childhood with the Jackson 5 through monster solo albums like "Thriller" and "Bad."

The Black Eyed Peas, probably the biggest act on the bill, pulled out of the lineup this week, citing "unavoidable circumstances."

Participants urged fans to ignore the criticism and controversy, and to revel in the celebration of Jackson's musical legacy.

"It's not about the controversy," said R&B star Ne-Yo, who kicked off the show with a rendition of "Billie Jean," complete with some passable moonwalking. "It's not about the trial. It's not about his death. It's about celebrating his life. It's about celebrating his music."

The 50,000-strong crowd at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium did just that, roaring with approval as Jackson's brothers Marlon, Tito and Jackie — three-fifths of the original Jackson 5 — took the stage to perform "Blame It On the Boogie" with British boyband JLS.

"Can you feel his spirit in the house tonight?" asked Marlon. Judging by the cheers, the fedora hats and the sequined gloves in the audience, many could.

Jackson died in June 2009, at age 50, as he was preparing for a string of comeback concerts in London.

His last hours are being relived in graphic detail at the manslaughter trial of Dr. Conrad Murray, accused of giving Jackson a lethal dose of the anesthetic propofol and other sedatives in the bedroom of his rented mansion on June 25, 2009.

"This is a great counter-act to that," said Motown great Smokey Robinson, who gave a soulful rendition of "She's Out of My Life." "And it gives people something happy to do, rather than thinking about what's going on in the trial."

The show mined a rich trove of Jackson hits. Leona Lewis crooned "I'll Be There," Beyonce delivered the early single "I Wanna Be Where You Are" and Jamie Foxx performed "Rock With You." Aguilera sang Charlie Chaplin's "Smile" — one of Jackson's favorite songs.

"Tonight is a history lesson," Foxx told the crowd. "We're going to cover five decades of greatness."

The show reached a climax with Knight performing the poignant "Gone Too Soon" before a rousing finale that brought most of the performers — and the Jackson children — back onstage for the exuberant "Don't Stop Til' You Get Enough."

The concert has divided the King of Pop's family and followers. The three brothers, sister La Toya and vocal group 3T — composed of three of Michael's nephews — all performed, while 81-year-old matriarch Katherine was in the audience.

But Michael's brothers Jermaine and Randy and sister Janet have stayed away, saying it is wrong to hold the show at the same time as Murray's trial.

Before the show, Marlon Jackson said he respected his siblings' decision, but said he was sure Michael would have approved.

"Each one of us grieves differently," he said. "We want to celebrate the positive side of his life, the positive things that he did."

Some fan groups around also criticized the show for ticket prices that started at about $100 and for what some regard as an out-of-the-way location in Cardiff, 150 miles (240 kilometers) west of London.

"I believe it should wait, not only because of the Murray trial," said Wesley Noorhoff, president of a Dutch Michael Jackson fan club. "If you do a tribute to Michael, it has to be the best there is, just like Michael."

But those who came to Cardiff said it was a fitting antidote to the grim courtroom spectacle in Los Angeles.

"There's a lot of negativity in that courtroom," said Ronnie Lee, a 32-year-old truck driver from Pembroke, Wales, sporting a "Thriller" T-shirt. "This is a chance to say, 'Thank you Michael' and celebrate the music."

As the crowd poured out of the stadium, opinion was divided.

"Rubbish," said Sophie Stockdale, 23. "If you wanted to watch Beyonce on video link, you could do it on YouTube."

But Sophie Morris, also 23, said she'd loved it.

"It was amazing," she said. "I actually cried three or four times."

___

Online:

http://www.michaelforevertribute.com

___

Jill Lawless can be reached at: http://twitter.com/JillLawless

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Fans gather for Michael Jackson tribute concert (AP)

CARDIFF, Wales – Fans of Michael Jackson are gathering in Wales for a tribute concert that has divided the King of Pop's fans and family — a celebration of the late star's life overshadowed by the Los Angeles manslaughter trial of his doctor.

The genre- and generation-spanning lineup for the "Michael Forever" show at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium includes Christina Aguilera, Smokey Robinson, Gladys Knight, Leona Lewis, British boyband JLS, Cee Lo Green — and, via video, Beyonce.

The Black Eyed Peas pulled out this week, citing "unavoidable circumstances" amid reports the chart-topping band is splitting up.

Despite the last-minute loss, organizer Chris Hunt said fans can expect "a very, very spectacular show."

"Everything we've done has been governed by one criterion — would Michael have done it this way, would he approve, would he like it?" said Hunt, chief executive of Global Live Events. "We're trying to do something worthy of one of the greatest showmen of modern times."

Jackson died in June 2009, aged 50, as he was preparing for a string of comeback concerts in London.

His last hours are being relived in graphic detail at the trial of Dr. Conrad Murray, accused of giving Jackson a lethal dose of the anesthetic propofol and other sedatives in the bedroom of his rented mansion on June 25, 2009.

Little that Jackson did in the final years of his life was without controversy, and the division has continued after his death.

Jackson's estate is not involved in the concert, and his family is divided about the show. Siblings Marlon, Tito, Jackie and La Toya are scheduled to perform, and Michael Jackson's mother Katherine is due to attend, along with his children Prince, 14, Paris, 13, and 9-year-old Michael Joseph Jr., known as Blanket.

Katherine Jackson has said the concert is "exactly the way Michael would have wanted to be remembered."

But brothers Jermaine and Randy Jackson have criticized the timing of the show, saying Murray's trial should take precedence over other events. In a statement, the brothers said "we feel that the most important tribute we can give to our brother at this time is to seek justice in his name."

Sister Janet Jackson also has said she will not attend because the concert coincides with Murray's trial.

Fan groups around the world have also criticized the event, not just for its timing, but for ticket prices that started at about $100 and for what some regard as an out-of-the-way location in Cardiff, 150 miles (240 kilometers) west of London.

Organizers have struggled to line up top-name acts for the show, hosted by actor Jamie Foxx and British TV presenter Fearne Cotton. They outraged many fans by inviting the rock band Kiss, whose bassist Gene Simmons told a magazine last year that there was "no doubt in my mind" that Jackson, who was acquitted of molestation charges in 2005, had abused children.

The invitation was hastily rescinded, but many fans remain angry.

"The fans are not happy that the Jackson estate is not involved," said Wesley Noorhoff, president of a Dutch Michael Jackson fan club. "It seemed like they wanted to build a concert soon, to get money.

"I believe it should wait, not only because of the Murray trial. If you do a tribute to Michael it has to be the best there is, just like Michael."

Hunt insisted the show would be a success. He said more than 40,000 tickets had been sold, and he was confident of reaching the venue's 50,000 capacity.

Some of the proceeds will go to the AIDS Project Los Angeles and Prince's Trust charities, and a portion will be placed in a trust fund for Jackson's children, though organizers did not give an exact breakdown.

Hunt said 13 Jackson family members were scheduled to attend the concert, many of them appearing onstage.

"It's a family's tribute to their own," he said. "I'm expecting it to be a hugely emotional evening."

___

Online: http://www.michaelforevertribute.com

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Black Eyed Peas out of Michael Jackson concert (AP)

LONDON – The Black Eyed Peas have pulled out of this week's Michael Jackson tribute concert in Wales.

Organizers say the band, whose hits include "I Gotta Feeling," has withdrawn due to "unavoidable circumstances."

Christina Aguilera, Smokey Robinson, Gladys Knight, Leona Lewis and Cee Lo Green are on the bill for Saturday's "Michael Forever" show at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium.

Chris Hunt, chief executive of event organizer Global Live Events, said Wednesday that the concert would be a "fantastic evening," despite the absence.

The show is not affiliated with Jackson's estate, but his mother Katherine and other relatives are scheduled to attend.

Organizers have rescinded an offer to the band Kiss over singer Gene Simmons' past criticism of Jackson.

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Black Eyed Peas out of Michael Jackson concert (AP)

LONDON – The Black Eyed Peas have pulled out of this week's Michael Jackson tribute concert in Wales.

Organizers say the band, whose hits include "I Gotta Feeling," has withdrawn due to "unavoidable circumstances."

Christina Aguilera, Smokey Robinson, Gladys Knight, Leona Lewis and Cee Lo Green are on the bill for Saturday's "Michael Forever" show at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium.

Chris Hunt, chief executive of event organizer Global Live Events, said Wednesday that the concert would be a "fantastic evening," despite the absence.

The show is not affiliated with Jackson's estate, but his mother Katherine and other relatives are scheduled to attend.

Organizers have rescinded an offer to the band Kiss over singer Gene Simmons' past criticism of Jackson.

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Black Eyed Peas to play at Michael Jackson tribute (AP)

LONDON – The Black Eyed Peas will perform at next month's Michael Jackson tribute concert in Wales.

They'll join Christina Aguilera, Smokey Robinson and Cee Lo Green at the "Michael Forever" show.

Frontman Will.i.am — who worked with Jackson before the pop star's death in 2009 — said Friday "we all owe Michael such a lot."

He said Jackson's songs "have been an inspiration to my whole life and certainly formed the soundtrack to my childhood."

The Oct. 8 concert at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium will be hosted by actor Jamie Foxx.

The show is not affiliated with Jackson's estate, but his mother Katherine and other relatives are scheduled to attend.

Organizers rescinded an offer to the band Kiss over singer Gene Simmons' past criticism of Jackson.

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Trust fund request made for Michael Jackson beneficiaries (Reuters)

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – The executors of Michael Jackson's estate asked a judge on Tuesday to allow them to put aside $30 million in a trust fund for the late singer's mother and three children, who are the designated beneficiaries.

The executors, attorney John Branca and music executive John McClain, also requested permission from Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Mitchell Beckloff, who is overseeing matters related to the Jackson estate, to sell the longtime Jackson family compound in the Los Angeles suburb of Encino.

A petition from attorneys for the executors said that Katherine Jackson, the late "Thriller" singer's mother, wishes to "sell the Hayvenhurst property (in Encino) and purchase another residence as a replacement."

A court hearing in the case is set for September 28.

The executors for the Jackson estate have reported that it has generated more than $310 million in gross revenue through the end of last year from album sales, merchandising and other products.

When Jackson died, he had debts of more than $400 million, and his estate administrators said earlier this year that they had used $159 million to pay down those debts.

Jackson designated Katherine Jackson, 81, and his three children, Prince, 14, Paris, 13, and Blanket, 9, as the beneficiaries of his estate.

The singer died at age 50 on June 25, 2009, from what authorities describe as an overdose of the anesthetic propofol and other drugs. The singer's physician at the time, Dr. Conrad Murray, has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in Jackson's death and has pleaded not guilty.

(Reporting by Alex Dobuzinskis: Editing by Cynthia Johnston)

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Jamie Foxx to host Michael Jackson tribute concert (AP)

LOS ANGELES – Jamie Foxx has been named to host the Michael Jackson tribute concert planned for October in Wales.

Foxx's spokesman said Monday that the Oscar-winning star of "Ray" would host "Michael Forever — The Tribute Concert." It is scheduled for Oct. 8 in Cardiff, Wales.

Christina Aguilera, Smokey Robinson and Cee Lo Green are among the show's announced performers.

The show is not affiliated with Michael Jackson's estate, but Jackson's mother, Katherine, and other Jackson family members are scheduled to attend.

Organizers had to rescind an offer to the band Kiss last month after fans and Jackson's estate noted that singer-bassist Gene Simmons had harshly criticized the pop singer over the years.

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Michael Jackson jury 30-page survey is released (AP)

By LINDA DEUTSCH, AP Special Correspondent Linda Deutsch, Ap Special Correspondent – Sat Sep 10, 5:14 am ET

LOS ANGELES – Jury selection in the trial of Michael Jackson's doctor is moving forward with 145 prospective jurors cleared for further questioning after answering an in-depth questionnaire probing their views about the King of Pop and the criminal case against his doctor

Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor decided Friday that there were sufficient prospective jurors available to go on to the next phase — in-court questioning on Sept. 23.

The 30-page questionnaire, which seeks extensive personal information, challenged prospective jurors to share their feelings about the dead superstar and about the fact that his famous family members will be in court every day for testimony.

They were asked whether they have seen the posthumous Jackson concert movie, "This Is It," and whether they have bought Jackson CDs, DVDs or memorabilia.

"Have you ever considered yourself a fan of Michael Jackson or the Jackson family?" they were asked.

They were required to specify how much they know about the involuntary manslaughter case against Dr. Conrad Murray, who has pleaded not guilty in Jackson's death from an overdose of the anesthetic propofol.

Among the questions: Have potential jurors read newspaper stories about the King of Pop's death? Have they followed coverage of legal developments? Did they watch the funeral or memorial service for Jackson who died on June 25, 2009, or did they try to attend the services in person?

The form also gave prospective jurors a warning that publicity about the case will be heavy and they must ignore it.

"There will be cameras, reporters members of the Murray and Jackson families, and members of the public present in the courtroom," said one question. "... Would the presence of cameras and these people affect your responsibility to be completely fair and impartial to both parties in the case?"

One question already answered in court was that every member of the jury pool has heard of the high profile case.

The questionnaire included a list of 27 drugs including the anesthetic propofol. Potential jurors were asked whether they had a familiarity with the substances, whether they or anyone they know has taken them and whether they have ever had anesthetic for a medical procedure.

Murray is accused of gross negligence in his treatment of Jackson and prospective jurors were asked about their attitudes toward doctors.

The prospects were asked if they followed media coverage on high profile cases including those of O.J. Simpson, Robert Blake, Phil Spector and Casey Anthony.

"Did you form any opinions about the criminal justice system as a result of following these cases?" the form asked.

They are asked to state if they have formed an opinion on Murray's guilt or innocence.

As in a speech the judge gave to them in person, potential panelists were warned on the questionnaire to avoid Internet coverage of the case including posts on Facebook, Twitter and blogs.

Among the 113 questions asked of prospects was whether they believe celebrities receive special treatment in the criminal justice system.

Lawyers will begin studying the questionnaires in which participants also disclose their backgrounds and knowledge of Jackson's career. Some could be dismissed if they expressed extreme bias in the case.

Pastor lectured the jury candidates earlier in the day on the importance of jury service and their duty to insulate themselves from outside information about the trial.

"The electronic age is upon us," said Pastor, "and there are numerous mechanical devices for obtaining information."

He reiterated concerns that the final jury chosen for the trial will be unable to resist the lure of the Web.

"Some of us can't avoid sharing our thoughts with a quarter of a million people every day," he said in a reference to social networking. "We trust them ... but we don't know what their agenda is."

Pastor also stressed the patriotic duty of jury service. And he had everyone rise and face the flag for a moment of silence in observance of the upcoming 9/11 anniversary.

Murray could face four years in prison and the loss of his medical license if convicted. The trial, expected to last about five-weeks, will focus on the Houston-based cardiologist's actions in the final hours of Jackson's life.

_____

AP Entertainment Writer Anthony McCartney contributed to this report.

_____

Online:

People v. Conrad Robert Murray juror questionnaire: http://bit.ly/p9lE4J

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Michael Jackson jurors given 31-page questionnaire (Reuters)

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Potential jurors in the manslaughter trial of Michael Jackson's doctor were given a 31-page questionnaire covering topics ranging from their knowledge of prescription drugs to their familiarity with the late King of Pop's life.

Jury selection began on Thursday and by Friday some 370 people had been considered for the panel. Many answered a questionnaire that will help attorneys narrow the pool to some 145 people.

That smaller group will return to court on September 23 when a new phase of jury selection will begin to choose 12 people who will decide the guilt or innocence of Dr. Conrad Murray.

Pop star Jackson, whose "Thriller" remains the best-selling album of all time, died on June 25, 2009, age 50, in Los Angeles from what authorities have said was an overdose of the powerful anesthetic propofol and prescription sedatives.

Murray is accused of responsibility for Jackson's death by administering propofol as a sleep aid and failing to monitor the singer properly. He has pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter, and defense attorneys are expected to argue Jackson may have administered the lethal dose of propofol himself.

If convicted, Murray faces a maximum four-year prison sentence.

The jury document, containing 113 questions, asked potential jurors whether they were familiar with a number of painkillers and other medications, such as propofol, Valium, Vicodin, Xanax and Zoloft.

It also asked how much they rely on their doctor's advice and if they know anyone with drug or alcohol addictions.

Members of the pool were asked if they ever attended any concerts by Jackson, watched his DVDs or had Jackson memorabilia.

Opening arguments in the trial are expected to begin on September 27.

(Reporting by Alex Dobuzinskis; Editing by Bob Tourtellotte and Cynthia Johnston)

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Jermaine Jackson reveals escape plan for Michael (AP)

LONDON – Jermaine Jackson says his family had secretly arranged to fly Michael to Bahrain if the pop icon was found guilty of child molestation.

Jermaine was quoted as telling The Times magazine out Saturday that a private jet financed by a friend was on standby to whisk his late brother to the Gulf emirate if the 2005 court case ended with a conviction.

Bahrain does not have an extradition treaty with the U.S.

Jermaine says his brother did not know about the escape plan but Michael would have "done it in a heartbeat" because "why should he go to jail for something he didn't do?"

The singer was found not guilty on all charges.

He later spent a year in the emirate as a guest of a son of Bahrain's king.

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Michael Jackson jurors given 31-page questionnaire (Reuters)

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Potential jurors in the manslaughter trial of Michael Jackson's doctor were given a 31-page questionnaire covering topics ranging from their knowledge of prescription drugs to their familiarity with the late King of Pop's life.

Jury selection began on Thursday and by Friday some 370 people had been considered for the panel. Many answered a questionnaire that will help attorneys narrow the pool to some 145 people.

That smaller group will return to court on September 23 when a new phase of jury selection will begin to choose 12 people who will decide the guilt or innocence of Dr. Conrad Murray.

Pop star Jackson, whose "Thriller" remains the best-selling album of all time, died on June 25, 2009, age 50, in Los Angeles from what authorities have said was an overdose of the powerful anesthetic propofol and prescription sedatives.

Murray is accused of responsibility for Jackson's death by administering propofol as a sleep aid and failing to monitor the singer properly. He has pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter, and defense attorneys are expected to argue Jackson may have administered the lethal dose of propofol himself.

If convicted, Murray faces a maximum four-year prison sentence.

The jury document, containing 113 questions, asked potential jurors whether they were familiar with a number of painkillers and other medications, such as propofol, Valium, Vicodin, Xanax and Zoloft.

It also asked how much they rely on their doctor's advice and if they know anyone with drug or alcohol addictions.

Members of the pool were asked if they ever attended any concerts by Jackson, watched his DVDs or had Jackson memorabilia.

Opening arguments in the trial are expected to begin on September 27.

(Reporting by Alex Dobuzinskis; Editing by Bob Tourtellotte and Cynthia Johnston)

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Jermaine Jackson reveals escape plan for Michael (AP)

LONDON – Jermaine Jackson says his family had secretly arranged to fly Michael to Bahrain if the pop icon was found guilty of child molestation.

Jermaine was quoted as telling The Times magazine out Saturday that a private jet financed by a friend was on standby to whisk his late brother to the Gulf emirate if the 2005 court case ended with a conviction.

Bahrain does not have an extradition treaty with the U.S.

Jermaine says his brother did not know about the escape plan but Michael would have "done it in a heartbeat" because "why should he go to jail for something he didn't do?"

The singer was found not guilty on all charges.

He later spent a year in the emirate as a guest of a son of Bahrain's king.

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Michael Jackson jury 30-page survey is released (AP)

By LINDA DEUTSCH, AP Special Correspondent Linda Deutsch, Ap Special Correspondent – Fri Sep 9, 9:56 pm ET

LOS ANGELES – The first phase of jury selection in the trial of Michael Jackson's doctor concluded Friday with 145 prospective jurors cleared for further questioning after answering an in-depth questionnaire probing their views about the King of Pop and the criminal case against his doctor.

The 30-page questionnaire, which seeks extensive personal information, challenged prospective jurors to share their feelings about the dead superstar and about the fact that his famous family members will be in court every day for testimony.

They were asked whether they have seen the posthumous Jackson concert movie, "This Is It," and whether they have bought Jackson CDs, DVDs or memorabilia.

"Have you ever considered yourself a fan of Michael Jackson or the Jackson family?" they were asked.

They were required to specify how much they know about the involuntary manslaughter case against Dr. Conrad Murray, who has pleaded not guilty in Jackson's death from an overdose of the anesthetic propofol.

Among the questions: Have potential jurors read newspaper stories about the King of Pop's death? Have they followed coverage of legal developments? Did they watch the funeral or memorial service for Jackson who died on June 25, 2009, or did they try to attend the services in person?

The form also gave prospective jurors a warning that publicity about the case will be heavy and they must ignore it.

"There will be cameras, reporters members of the Murray and Jackson families, and members of the public present in the courtroom," said one question. "... Would the presence of cameras and these people affect your responsibility to be completely fair and impartial to both parties in the case?"

One question already answered in court was that every member of the jury pool has heard of the high profile case.

The questionnaire included a list of 27 drugs including the anesthetic propofol. Potential jurors were asked whether they had a familiarity with the substances, whether they or anyone they know has taken them and whether they have ever had anesthetic for a medical procedure.

Murray is accused of gross negligence in his treatment of Jackson and prospective jurors were asked about their attitudes toward doctors.

The prospects were asked if they followed media coverage on high profile cases including those of O.J. Simpson, Robert Blake, Phil Spector and Casey Anthony.

"Did you form any opinions about the criminal justice system as a result of following these cases?" the form asked.

They are asked to state if they have formed an opinion on Murray's guilt or innocence.

As in a speech the judge gave to them in person, potential panelists were warned on the questionnaire to avoid Internet coverage of the case including posts on Facebook, Twitter and blogs.

Among the 113 questions asked of prospects was whether they believe celebrities receive special treatment in the criminal justice system.

Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor decided Friday there were sufficient prospective jurors available to go on to the next phase — in-court questioning on Sept. 23.

Lawyers will begin studying the questionnaires in which participants also disclose their backgrounds and knowledge of Jackson's career. Some could be dismissed if they expressed extreme bias in the case.

Pastor lectured the jury candidates earlier in the day on the importance of jury service and their duty to insulate themselves from outside information about the trial.

"The electronic age is upon us," said Pastor, "and there are numerous mechanical devices for obtaining information."

He reiterated concerns that the final jury chosen for the trial will be unable to resist the lure of the Web.

"Some of us can't avoid sharing our thoughts with a quarter of a million people every day," he said in a reference to social networking. "We trust them ... but we don't know what their agenda is."

Pastor also stressed the patriotic duty of jury service. And he had everyone rise and face the flag for a moment of silence in observance of the upcoming 9/11 anniversary.

Murray could face four years in prison and the loss of his medical license if convicted. The trial, expected to last about five-weeks, will focus on the Houston-based cardiologist's actions in the final hours of Jackson's life.

_____

AP Entertainment Writer Anthony McCartney contributed to this report.

_____

Online:

People v. Conrad Robert Murray juror questionnaire: http://bit.ly/p9lE4J

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Doctor's trial may avoid Michael Jackson's past (Reuters)

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Michael Jackson's former doctor faces a tough challenge clearing himself of involuntary manslaughter charges in the pop star's death as his trial, which promises to avoid many dark aspects of Jackson's life, begins with jury selection this week.

While it is Dr. Conrad Murray, who will be on trial when attorneys begin selecting a panel on Thursday, the "Thriller" singer's infamy will loom large over the proceedings.

Jackson was one of the world's most recognizable singers, dubbed the King of Pop, when he died in June 2009, at age 50. He also was known to have battled an addiction to painkillers, and Murray's attorneys had hoped to present evidence of his past drug use at the trial.

But in an obstacle for the defense, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor barred testimony from a half-dozen doctors whom Murray's attorneys had indicated in court papers would portray Jackson as drug-dependent.

"The deck is, for various reasons, stacked against the defense here," said Stan Goldman, a professor at Loyola Law School in Los Angeles.

Jackson stopped breathing at his Los Angeles mansion on June 25, 2009, in what authorities say was an overdose of the powerful anesthetic propofol and various sedatives.

Murray, who pleaded not guilty to the charge of involuntary manslaughter, has admitted giving Jackson propofol, a drug normally used for surgery, as a sleep aid.

During a series of court hearings earlier this year defense attorneys suggested that when Murray was out of the room, Jackson could have given himself a large, fatal dose of the drug, possibly by swallowing it.

Murray faces up to four years in prison if convicted.

FINDING A JURY

As for choosing an impartial jury, legal experts say it will be impossible to find anyone who knows nothing of Jackson. Some will adore him, while others will abhor him. So attorneys will have to work to find the most unbiased jury possible under the circumstances.

"It's going to be like a Ouija board, it's going to be guess work," Goldman said.

After a jury panel is selected, the trial will be recessed until opening arguments begin the last week of September.

Jackson's family has faithfully attended all the court hearings in the case, with his mother, Katherine, 81, often sitting with his father, Joseph, 83.

The King of Pop's supporters also will be on hand, and if earlier hearings are any indication they will wear black as a sign of mourning over their fallen idol. At earlier court hearings, some fans hired a plane to fly a banner over the courthouse that read "Change charges to murder."

"If the jurors walk through, on the way to the courthouse, a massive amount of fans who are declaring the guilt of the defendant in the case, I find it hard to believe it won't have some impact," Goldman said.

But some trial watchers say the circus atmosphere that is expected outside the courthouse may, in fact, never materialize. Indeed, Jackson's fans failed to jam the streets of downtown Los Angeles during his 2009 memorial, as had been widely expected.

Laurie Levenson, a colleague of Goldman's at Loyola Law School, said she does not believe the proceedings will become anywhere near the public and media frenzy that accompanied the 1995 murder trial and acquittal of O.J. Simpson.

For one, the Grenada-born Murray is not a celebrity, just a doctor with patients in Nevada and Texas.

"We have a 'trial of the century' about every six months here in Los Angeles," Levenson said wryly.

(Editing by Chris Michaud and Bob Tourtellotte)

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David Gest, Jacksons plan tribute tour to Michael (Reuters)

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Producer David Gest, Tito Jackson and others close to Michael Jackson on Monday unveiled a singing and spoken-word tribute tour to the late King of Pop.

"A Jackson Named Michael: Remembering a Legend," kicks off in the United Kingdom in March 2012, and follows another tribute set for October in Wales that has caused some controversy among fans of the "Thriller" singer.

Gest's show will feature Tito, a member with Michael of Motown singing sensations The Jackson 5, along with another sibling Rebbie Jackson and friend Deniece Williams singing tunes and telling tales about Jackson's life and career. Plans call for a question-and-answer session with audience members.

"The majority of the show will be reminiscences and stories about Michael that the public has never heard," Gest said in a statement.

The tour also follows the October U.K. release of Gest's documentary film, 'Michael Jackson: The Life of an Icon," which Jackson's mother and family matriarch Katherine Jackson called "a tremendous achievement."

"This is not my story, but the story of many of Michael's friends' recollections," she said in a statement.

Michael Jackson, who rose to fame in a family of singers before embarking on a solo career that included smash hits such as "Thriller" and "Billie Jean," died in June 2009 of an overdose of the surgical anesthetic propofol which he used as a sleep aid.

His physician at the time, Dr. Conrad Murray, has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in Jackson's death. He has pleaded not guilty and a trial will start in September.

Katherine Jackson is just one of the family's members who has backed a one-night tribute planned for October 8 in Cardiff, Wales. But that tribute has caused some fans to cry foul over the singers who were invited, the charities benefiting from ticket sales and its timing during Murray's trial.

(Reporting and writing by Bob Tourtellotte; Editing by Chris Michaud)

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Michael Jackson's 53rd birthday: the world celebrates (Reuters)

LOS ANGELES (TheWrap.com) – Michael Jackson would have turned 53 on Monday if not for his untimely death on June 25, 2009.

And though the musical legend has left this world forever, the King of Pop's life is being celebrated throughout the country in a variety of ways.

The big celebration is occurring in Jackson's birthplace in Gary, Ind., where the city is holding a four-day celebration that began over the weekend.

The Chicago Tribune reported that the extended bash -- marked by musical performances and a circus -- drew hundreds of fans over the weekend, and was attended on Saturday by Jackson's family, including his 13-year-old daughter, Paris, as well as his sons Prince, 14, and Blanket, 9, and his father Joe.

Jackson's mother, Katherine, was also on hand for the festivities on Sunday, TMZ reported.

Those who couldn't make it to Indiana still managed to find ways to celebrate.

In San Francisco, the singer's birthday was marked with a flash mob dancing to "Thriller." The semi-organized dance performance wound its way from the city's Ferry Plaza to Union Square, into the Mission District's Dolores Park and finally into the Castro District.

Jackson's influence on musicians is probably inestimable, and quite naturally the artists who've drawn inspiration from him are remembering him on his special day.

Former Tribe Called Quest rapper Q-Tip performed a special tribute to Jackson at his concert in New York City's Irving Plaza on Saturday.

"Michael Jackson was a huge influence on my music and was an inspiration to me and so many others," Q-Tip told the press. "I want to bring people together to celebrate the man, his music and his legacy that will undoubtedly live on forever!"

Meanwhile, Chris Brown weighed in on the milestone Monday, writing on his twitter account, "Happy birthday Michael Jackson!!!! Your the greatest!"

The celebration of Jackson's life and musical contributions won't stop thee. "Michael Forever -- The Tribute Concert" will take place on October 8 at the 74,500-seat Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, Wales.

Though the production has been beset by problems, artists including Christina Aguilera, Cee Lo Green, the Jackson Brothers, Leona Lewis and Smokey Robinson are scheduled to perform.

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Michael Jackson's children visit Ind. boyhood home (AP)

GARY, Ind. – Michael Jackson's children and father visited the late pop star's boyhood home in Gary, Ind., as the town celebrated what would have been his 53rd birthday.

Hundreds of fans took part in activities outside the house in Jackson Street over the weekend ahead of Jackson's birthday on Monday.

Thirteen-year-old Paris Jackson told WLS-TV that she enjoyed seeing so many fans at the house when she and her brothers, 14-year-old Prince and 9-year-old Blanket, visited on Saturday.

The Post-Tribune of Merrillville reports that Jackson's father Joe attended activities at the home on Sunday.

The Jackson family moved from Indiana to California in 1969 after the Jackson 5 struck it big. Jackson died in June 2009.

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