Anniversary of Michael Jackson’s death
Music fans the world over can mark 25 June 2009 as one of those eerie days that force them to recall exactly what they were doing in the moments before they heard tragic news. Michael Jackson died that day – at the age of 50, and the world was not ready to see him go.
No entertainer could ever fill the void that MJ left behind, but his memory has not faded in the three years that he’s been gone. In the past 12 months alone, we’ve seen Jackson-inspired productions, heard narratives from celebrities who continually cite him as a key influence. And this summer his face will be plastered on Pepsi cans to commemorate the 25th anniversary of his classic album Bad. Keep reading to see a few examples from the past year that prove that Jackson has remained forever in the heart of pop culture.
Michael Jackson.
Michael Jackson fans left thousands of roses at his tomb on Monday, marking the third anniversary of the King of Pop’s accidental death.
Jackson died at age 50 on 25 June 2009 from an overdose of propofol, a powerful anaesthetic he obtained with the help of his doctor and used as a sleeping aid. Jackson was buried at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Glendale, a northern suburb of Los Angeles.
The Great Mausoleum (a replica of the Campo Santo in Genoa, Italy), where Jackson was laid to rest beside several other stars, is strictly forbidden to the public. But fans have developed a habit of laying flowers and small notes in front of the stained glass window of a wall, close to his tomb.
Jackson’s fans banned together to collect $30 000 and deliver 10 000 red roses (the singer’s favourite flower) to his tomb, according to celebrity news site TMZ.com. The roses were laid among sunflowers – left on a weekly basis by one loyal fan, as well as teddy bears and other offerings.
Michael Jackson’s daughter Paris, now 14, tweeted on Monday – “RIP Michael Jackson. Dad you will forever be in my heart. I love you”
American Idol judge Randy Jackson tweeted – “RIP Michael Jackson King Of Pop!!!”
Justin Bieber also offered his condolences on Twitter.
“You will never be forgotten” – Bieber wrote.
“Michael Jackson is the epitome of a legend – a true icon that can only, at best, be emulated” – tweeted singer and TV show host Paula Abdul.
Memories, tributes and, of course, trending topics continue to flood the Twittersphere as Michael Jackson is remembered on the third anniversary of his death.
Jackson’s 14-year-old daughter (Paris) is among the many people who tweeted their respects on Monday.
“RIP Michael Jackson … Dad you will forever be in my heart <3 i love you” – she wrote.
On Wednesday, Paris posted a picture of MJ kissing ex-wife Debbie Rowe on the cheek, along with the caption: “mommy and daddy!<3″
Randy (the youngest of Jackson’s siblings) wrote: “3 years ago on this June 25th, my brother passed. I will be at FL from 11am-1pm today to visit him.”
The King of Pop’s older sister, La Toya, tweeted: “Sad morning All … this Day was the day that lead to the demise of my little brother. ‘Michael We Love’ May you RIP. Gone FAR To Soon.”
Justin Bieber was one of many artists posting about the late entertainer’s legacy.
“RIP to the best that ever did it. RIP to the KING…RIP Michael Jackson. You will never be forgotten. #INSPIRATION” – Bieber tweeted.
While Wiz Khalifa wrote: “3 years ago today the world lost a legend. RIP Michael Jackson. Your music lives on for you. Thank you for everything!”
Jackson’s death, on June 25, 2009, was caused by a combination of the anesthetic propofol and sedatives administered by Dr. Conrad Murray, according to the Los Angeles County coroner.
Murray has been in jail since he was sentenced to four years for involuntary manslaughter in November.