Content Warning: This article discusses sexual assault. If you or someone you know are affected by the following story, you are not alone. To speak to someone, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
Michael Jackson’s legacy within the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame appears to be safe, with the musical institution not planning to remove the musician any time soon.
For a few months now, there has been much plenty of discussion about the controversial Leaving Neverland documentary.
The documentary itself focuses around claims of child sex abuse made against Michael Jackson, giving particular attention to the allegations made by Jimmy Safechuck and Brisbane-born Wade Robson.
Described by the Jackson estate has called it nothing but a “tabloid character assassination,” the fallout from these claims have been wide-reaching, with plenty of organisations and individuals cutting all ties that they had with the artist.
While radio stations around the world have blacklisted Michael Jackson’s music, producers of The Simpsons have shelved his early ’90s episode.
Meanwhile, a children’s museum in the US has removed pieces of Jackson memorabilia, while a superfan who changed his name to that of the King of Pop is raising funds to change it back.
Despite this though, it appears as though Michael Jackson’s legacy within the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame looks set to remain for many years to come.
As TMZ reports, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame have apparently made it clear that Michael Jackson’s legacy as a two-time inductee, along with any memorabilia within their museum, is set to remain intact.
Jackson was originally inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Jackson 5 in 1997, before being inducted as a solo artist in 2001.
Incidentally, the Rock Hall’s assurance of Jackson’s legacy comes just a matter of days before Janet Jackson, the younger sister of the King Of Pop, is inducted into the Hall of Fame as a solo artist.
As one would expect, there is speculation swirling as to whether or not Janet Jackson’s acceptance speech will feature any reference to the current allegations that have followed her brother.
In related news, two artists have made headlines over the weekend due to their comments about Michael Jackson.
While close friend Diana Ross lent her support to the late singer, Barbra Streisand copped heat for her seemingly insensitive comments about the two men who have come forward to accuse Jackson of sexual abuse.
“The stories these two young men shared were painful to hear, and I feel nothing but sympathy for them,” Streisand wrote in a later apology. “The single most important role of being a parent is to protect their children.”
“It’s clear that the parents of the two young men were also victimised and seduced by fame and fantasy.”
Check out the trailer for Leaving Neverland:
