The majority of pop icon Michael Jackson’s so-called “friends” who spoke at his public memorial barely knew him. Maybe that’s why his true friends made the decision to avoid the public spectacle.
According to US magazine, “friends” such as Brooke Shields and Corey Feldman haven’t seen or spoken to Michael in years. Shields was a 18-year-old teenager when she met Jackson in the 80s. But the last time she saw him was at Elizabeth Taylor’s wedding 18 years ago.
Feldman last spoke to Jackson a few years ago after they had a falling out. Yet, when interviewed, Feldman said he felt drained by Jackson’s death.
Singer Usher, who broke down in tears onstage has only met Jackson once. Rapper-turned actress-turned singer, Queen Latifah, who delivered a eulogy to Jackson said, “I never actually got to meet him. My [business] partner met him because we managed Naughty by Nature and they did a remix with him. He thought I had beautiful cheekbones.”
Jennifer Hudson, who sang a soaring rendition of Jackson’s hit “Will You Be There” — also never met him. Neither has John Mayer, whose instrumental version of “Human Nature” was not very well received.
On the other hand, Jackson’s lifelong friends such as Diana Ross — who met Jackson when he was a 10-year-old musical prodigy — was a no-show. As was the legendary actress Elizabeth Taylor, who took to her twitter to say she wished to avoid the Hollywood “whoopla.”
Meanwhile, the city of Los Anegeles is begging for donations to cover the event’s $1.4 million cost. And word is another “memorial” to Jackson is in the works.
