Michael Jackson's Memorial Had Over 20,000 Attendees
King of Pop Michael Jackson’s coffin was given a guard of honour by his grieving brothers, as his emotional public memorial got under way. The gold casket covered with red flowers was wheeled out through the 20,000-strong audience and positioned in front of the stage, as a choir sang ‘Soon And Very Soon’ in emotional scenes at the Staples Centre.
The ceremony got under way about 10 minutes after the scheduled 10am start time as mourners waited for the hearse carrying Jackson’s coffin to arrive from the nearby Forest Lawn cemetery. The memorial began with Motown legend Smokey Robinson reading touching tributes from Jackson’s friends Diana Ross and Nelson Mandela. Ross, who Jackson named as guardian of his three children in his will, told of her grief in her message: “I want you to know that even though I’m not there at the Staples Centre. I’m there in my heart… “Michael was a personal love of mine, a treasured part of my world, part of the fabric of my life in a way that I can’t seem to find words to express. “Michael wanted me to be there for his children and I will be there if they need me. “I hope today brings closure for all those who loved him.” Mandela’s message was read out by Robinson: “Michael was a giant and a legend in the music industry and we mourn with the millions of fans worldwide. “We also mourn with his family and his friends over the loss of our dear friend. He will be missed and memories of him cherished for a very long time.” The first 20 rows at the Staples Centre venue were packed with VIPs and family friends, including former boxing champ Mike Tyson, Motown legend Berry Gordy and reality-TV star Kim Kardashian and her family.
Provided by: Iain Burchell / Splash News
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