June 25, 2009 10:00PM EDT
RIP, Michael Jackson
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MJ, Jacko, the King of Pop, or the pint-sized frontman of the Jackson 5: however you choose to remember Michael Jackson, he's just a memory now, albeit it a media-saturated, permanent-record kind of memory. His sudden death on Thursday came as a shock, as the world was instantly forced to reconcile memories of an incredible performer with a wariness about the man he had become in recent years.
As the 24-hour news channels scramble to pull together tributes to the global icon—and dissenting voices dredge up the sordid trials and allegations—we at Tribeca remember a very special night at the 2008 Tribeca Film Festival. On the 25th anniversary of the best-selling album of all time, Thriller, the Tribeca Drive-In hosted the world's largest zombie disco, complete with a Michael Jackson lookalike contest and face-painting for all. (Browse photos of the event.)
John Landis, the director of the seminal "Thriller" video, was on hand to ghoul out with the enthusiastic crowd that night (see the video below). Landis has released this statement: "I was lucky enough to know and work with Michael Jackson in his prime. Michael was an extraordinary talent and a truly great international star. He had a troubled and complicated life and despite his gifts, remains a tragic figure. My wife Deborah and I will always have great affection for him."
RIP, Michael. You made us dance.
Log in to My Tribeca and share your memories of Michael below.
June 29, 2009 12:40 AM
SariahU said:
king of pop is dead
Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, has made headlines again but this time it isn't happy news. Michael Jackson has been rushed to an LA area hospital, reportedly after having a heart attack. The Jackson family has confirmed that he is in the hospital, and that he is not in good shape. It seemed he was headed for a comeback. He was set to perform a series of concerts in London, which would, if Jackson recovers, get him out of trouble with his debts and put him back on top, and out of need for payday lenders. Michael Jackson was diagnosed in the 90s with vitiligo and lupus, and in the last few years needed some serious debt consolidation.
August 01, 2009 04:34 PM
Daydreamer said:
The Michael Jackson Show Screening at Tribeca Cinemas & After Party
On the Eve of Michael's Birthday, Please Join us on Friday, August 28th, 2009 as we Celebrate the King of Music For a Special screening of The Michael Jackson Show & Tribute After Party with DJ Spinna. This is a One Night Only Event. The MJ Show After Party will immediately follow the screening. The Sweet Sounds of MJ all Night Spun by the Incomparable DJ Spinna. In The Tradition of Neverland There will be Free Candy, Popcorn & Soda for all! Complimentary hors d'oeuvres by Chef Aris. Cash Bar all Night Long. Admission: $30 at the door/ $25 in advance View the trailer & buy tix now at http://www.MJSHOW.tv Follow the glove: http://twitter.com/THEMJSHOW Let us celebrate the life of The King of Music.