Here comes Michael Jackson. Sixteen years after his death, his legacy remains both celebrated and controversial. As MJ the Musical arrives in Melbourne, it brings with it the weight of 5 million jubilant customers across three continents, adding another layer to an empire sustained by the machinery of forgetting.
The musical’s arrival reignites the age-old debate of art versus artist. While cherished memories of hits like “Billie Jean” and “Beat It” remain intact, the larger-than-life narrative of Michael Jackson often overshadows the appetite for truth. This phenomenon isn’t new; it traces back to the 1996 Brit Awards in London, where Jackson’s performance of “Earth Song” was both a spectacle and a statement.
The Machinery of Forgetting
Two years after settling a civil suit with 13-year-old Jordy Chandler’s family, Jackson’s public image was a mix of reverence and skepticism. The settlement, reportedly $35 million with no admission of liability, left many questioning the truth behind the headlines. Yet, Jackson’s strategy of doubling down—deflecting distrust with bold reassertions—kept his legend larger than life.
In the late ’90s, Jackson’s HIStory tour and Invincible album continued this trend. The former reminded fans of his greatness by pairing old hits with new material, while the latter marked a creative decline. Despite this, the myth persisted, bolstered by Jackson’s insistence on being branded the “King of Pop” and a publicity machine that fed tabloids outlandish stories.
The Power of Narrative Control
The point was never credibility but control. Jackson’s ability to dismiss rumors as absurd, even when faced with undeniable truths, was a testament to his narrative control. This tactic was evident in his 2003 interview with UK journalist Martin Bashir, where Jackson’s claims of being “Peter Pan” and sharing beds with children were both alarming and revealing.
“I am Peter Pan … in my heart,” Jackson famously told Bashir, encapsulating his attempt to normalize an infantile lifestyle.
The 2005 trial, where Jackson was acquitted of all charges related to allegations by Gavin Arvizo and his brother, further polarized public opinion. For some, it was vindication; for others, it was another suspect twist in a seamy conspiracy.
Posthumous Legacy and Commercial Interests
After Jackson’s death, his narrative continued to evolve. The documentary Leaving Neverland in 2019 brought new allegations to light, shaking the foundation of his legacy. Radio stations and shows like The Simpsons distanced themselves from Jackson’s work, albeit temporarily. Yet, the commercial machinery behind Jackson’s estate remained steadfast.
Despite the controversies, the Jackson brand thrived. The 40th anniversary of Thriller in 2022 saw deluxe reissues and fan events, while HBO Max’s removal of Leaving Neverland underscored the estate’s influence. Sony’s investment in the Jackson business, exceeding $3 billion, highlighted a confidence in the enduring power of the “forgetting machine.”
MJ the Musical and the Biopic
MJ the Musical, curated by the estate, avoids addressing the unproven allegations of child abuse. Instead, it focuses on Jackson’s Dangerous tour of 1992, just before the first allegations surfaced. Meanwhile, the estate-sanctioned biopic Michael, starring Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson, promises to offer a “riveting and honest portrayal” of the King of Pop.
The film’s release, scheduled for April 2026, faces challenges, including reshoots due to legal discoveries related to Jackson’s 1994 settlement with Chandler.
The Future of Jackson’s Legacy
As the legal battles continue, with a court date set for late 2026, the Jackson estate remains defined by these unresolved allegations. The narrative of Michael Jackson, both celebrated and scrutinized, is a tightrope act between myth and reality. Whether Michael can delight audiences with a story that withstands scrutiny remains to be seen.
MJ the Musical opens at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Melbourne on September 9, inviting audiences to once again engage with the complex legacy of Michael Jackson.
