yes let him RIP already

Very sad to see the attention and honor he gets. What has happened to people’s priorities? If we would put God up on a pedestal, where He belongs, and not people like Michael Jackson, this world would be a much better place. The state of California is almost bankrupt and they are paying for this? This world is in big trouble.

I think it is a shame that so much coverage is given to a sick child molesting pervert. The children of world are now a little bit safer with this creep gone. That is why I am not watching. Ross

I am only able to watch a little bit at a time since I am at work. However, I am recording it to watch later. Michael Jackson was to this generation what Elvis was to mine. I remember watching the MASSIVE amount of people gathered around Graceland when he died; I remember the heartbreak that EVERYONE felt when we lost him and also Princess Diana. I do believe that the coverage has been over the top. THe comments that are being made, in particular, the senator yesterday that called him a pervert and another "choice" word. That was so uncalled for! EVERYONE should keep their negative opinions to themselves right now and let his grieving family try to have some peace. The country has lost a pop icon; they have lost a son, father, and brother. WHATEVER happened is in the past; just let the poor man rest in peace now.

I think its rediculous. His family claims to be Jehovahs Witnesses, well coming from a Jehovahs Witness home I can tell you that a true witness would never let this kind of mockery take place. True he had fans but the bible clearly states " There should be NO Gods before me" and this appears to be what the public is doing. Shame on his family for allowing the public to make such a fool of him. He appeared to be a quite person, exactly the opposite of what they are displaying.

No, not watching, I am in agreement with you, it is way way way to much coverage.

No, I am not watching it. It bores me. I remember the Thriller Jackson, if it were that Jackson that died, then maybe I would be watching...maybe. Media is way out of touch, we have our men and women dying for our freedoms while Congress and the Federal Government Trashes them. What does the media choose plaster on the TV's? Wacko Jacko's funeral. They liken him to Diana or Elvis.

I dare say, if you find yourself with eyes peeled to the TV set watching Jacksons Funeral, You Have a Problem! Time to unplug.

YES!! WAY TOO MUCH!!! Why are they celebrating a pedafile??

i really believe this has gone too far. i have not heard update on Iraq or Afganistan since Michael died. Our president was seen on NBC news this morning briefly to speak about his meeting with the Russian president and then it was back to Michael Jackson. We are in such a tough time of economic crisis and not to mention the crisis in every other country and we see nothing but the death of a performer. He was very talented and he set many new trends for our musicians but enough is enough.

if i remember right he made the music world what it is today... plus he was never convicted of any wrong doing.... people talk about innocent until proven guilty. this policy only seems to apply to the selfish and their family.. if your brother was charged with something does that make him guilty? no... give the man the respect he deserves... every thing he did was for the greater entertainment of the world so why should his death be any differant?

Honestly I'm getting really tired of all the coverage. It drives me nuts to see people crying over a man they didn't even know.

Seeing all this reaction, it's no wonder the man was seen as crazy in real life. People drove him there. Imagine not being able to leave your house without people following you. To be criticized and made fun of everytime you do go out in public. Having people constantly trying to pry out details of your personal life and failing that start making things up. The man had no peace in life, people should allow him some peace in death.

Yes, It has been too much ever since he died. The media just won't let people be in peace in times like this but have to sensationalize a story and milk it to death.

thank god another pervert is gone. he was mentally ill as well. and people are crying and making an ass of them selves we have some sick people out there.

There was too much too much coverage about 1 day after his death. Presidential deaths don't even get this much coverage. The cult-of-personality mentality with all these events absolutely floors me. There are so many more really important issues to disucuss and report on other than this.

I'm a fan of some of the early Michael Jackson hits, and I enjoy those songs. However, he made some choices further in his life for the worst. If the original Michael Jackson died, I would be very saddened. However, I'm not so sad because the late Michael Jackson is the one who is dead. And the media coverage is INSANE! I don't have cable TV, just good ol' over-the-air DTV and there's been plenty of coverage just on local channels too!

Adam wrote:
"Media is way out of touch, we have our men and women dying for our freedoms while Congress and the Federal Government Trashes them. What does the media choose plaster on the TV's? Wacko Jacko's funeral."

I couldn't agree more. News agencies need to set their priorities straight, and give us the same variety of news as they usually would.

Yes! Enough already!

My television is off today. I agree 100% with Congressman King. Our young soldiers are dying while our media is falling all over itself covering the funeral of a middle-aged guy who admitted to sharing his bed with boys. It's a disgrace.

I Dunno,! Watching on sky news right now but I'll be switching it off in five minutes to watch the Simpsons, Thats something I would cry over if it were to dissappear from our world!

I think Michael Jackson was the last of the great superstars. He touched many, many lives worldwide and my only hope is that he does find peace now as his music and videos will live on forever, but we should not forget a man who did so much to inspire individuals, musicians, and was also one who loved to help children, the poor, and the weak. He marched to his own drum and we all wish we could have live courageously enough as he did and live by our own rules, but most folks are cowards in my opinion. Michael was unfortunately not able to live a normal child and as a result you see that sweet innocence about him that made some people think he was in fact some kind of pervert, but the realty is that he himself was a child so let his legacy rest now and remember all the good that he did. You will be sadly missed. You are truly the King of Pop and it will be a long time before we see anyone like him. Rest in Peace Mike. Your Friend, Joe

Michael never harmed those kids. His face was blown up in a pyro accident, forcing the surgeries. You people ought to be ashamed of yourselves for judging others without all of the facts. There's always more than meets the eye.

I am not able to watch the funeral because I am in school headed to class.
awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww.......................

i just want to say good buy

EVERYTHING is too much coverage these days in a media driven world. Wars, lack of wars, presidents, scandals of ANYONE famous, as Maggie stated it is a sort of guilty pleasure of those who are watching. Michael was an icon to his generation, as was Elvis and others before. If the media had the capabilities in the past as it has now the world would have done just the same for Elvis and Kennedy and the moon landing and all of those events that were such a big part of our history, that's what this is... history. So this is just the diversion of today, it will be done and tomorrow we will find another poor soul to attack and exploit and watch! Just let it be, take what you want from it and move on.

MJ was a great artist but hopefully we can back to news after today. There is a related post at http://iamsoannoyed.com/?p=2088

The little boy MJ was precious, cute and great to listen to his singing..

Then he grew up and this was not a young man for children or young adults to look up to -No posters or music of his in MY HOUSE.

He was actually a pathetic sad crotch grabbing oddity..sad that he was so unhappy in his own skin and with his god given sex that he had to remold himself
. The re molding needed was from the inside.
It's too late to pray for MJ.

I haven't been paying attention, honestly. I don't watch the talking heads on mainstream media. I watch other sources of news and the coverage of him there has been extremely minimal. However, everywhere I go I hear people discussing him. I was getting my teeth cleaned this morning and heard the dental technician in the next cubicle discussing him with her patient. When I heard that he died, I pulled up msnbc and read one article on it. That's it. Everything else I've simply overheard when out and about. I do think the coverage should be less, though. It's all a distraction from the more important topic of the imminent collapse of our way of life here in the U.S. If anyone's interested check out www.lewrockwell.com for serious news.

I am not watching. I think its ridiculous that the city of LA has to spend 2.5 million on security when the state of CA is already up to their ears in debt.....they should have wrote Jackson an IOU and said thanks but no thanks...cmon the guy was a GREAT and TALENTED musician but enough is enough...not to mention his affinity to little boys....and who is paying the bill for the STaples Center funeral? Maybe they should have had the ceremony at a copy center inside a Staples STore

Michael Jackson was a great man and influenced so many people's lives in a great way. He deserves all the publicity he is getting and I will never get tired of watching this. I give my deepest respects to him and his family during this time. He will always have a place in my heart. It's everyone else's fault for being like they are and feeling like they do about MJ. He had a big heart for the world and children to help make it a better place. He lived a good life and has NOTHING to be ashamed of. I love you Michael!

I agree with what Joe wrote. He was an amazing entertainer, and a visionary. People amaze me at some of the terms and acusations that have come about. I mean he is dead...no longer with us.. Give this incredible man some peace and just keep your disgusting beliefs and opinions to yourselves there is no need for negativity. Has anyone else lost someone near and dear to them? It sucks, give the family the grieving time they need and just respect the man he was The King of Pop. Rest in Peace Michael you will forever have my respect
Pete

The King of Pop is with the King. Michael's demons are dead but his genius lives on. Thanks for all of the gifts you gave us, MJ.

WAY, WAY too much.

MARTHA, you are a sick individual person. The man has passed how the heck are they putting him before GOD. Have you ever lost a person close. I GUESS not!! Remembering someone life that you will never hold, touch, feel or talk to is not putting anyone before GOD. The man is famous so of course he can get the coverage like that. Religious has nothing to do with how you remember someone. STUPID!!! I am still trying to figuire out how are they not putting GOD first, go read your pamplet and get some sense in your head.

You know while the american public is distracted by the passing of all the celebrities this past month, the government is looking to pass legislation that will impact everyone. The press is not reporting on what is really important to this country. The people need to be kept up to date on what's going on at the capitol, not the funerals of celebrities.

if it is too much you are not forced to watch - then the choice is yours - simple as that. don't blame MJ or media for your own inabilities.

Maggie, I totally agree with you. I am getting sick and tired of all the media hoopla about Jackson, his life, loves, drug addictions(?), will(s), etc. When will we finally get on with the REAL news. What is going on with the health bill in Washington, the Israel/Palestinian affair, the Chinese riots, etc.? Michael was a very gifted musician and dancer, I regret his demise and hope that his children are not traumatized by the loss of their father (and by the coming storms over their future). Just like with Elvis, we will be hearing his songs into the next century. These will be his legacy to the world, not the "other" items in the news. Let him rest in peace and us also.

No way am I watchin. Yes its sad such a music legend is gone, but enough already. We should have aspot light for each and every soldier who has given their life for us. They deserve the honor.

No I am not watching, I am at work but wouldn't be watching anyway. Yes it it too much media coverage. It is a sad situation but I don't think anyone needs this much saturation.

no and i cant beleive you would say that, shame on you. he is an icon bigger than any one else in this entire world . i will watch it as long it is on tv. we are celebrating his life and legacy.

RIP Michael, there will never be another like you...you taught me about love as a young teenager with your sweet songs. God is the only one who will judge him, may he be at peace.

I think it is disguisting. It's pretty sad that we honor child molestors these days. I would much rather all the attention be on Farrah Fawcett or Billy Mays. But oh wait.... they didn't rape little boys, so I guess they aren't worthy? SICK!

Yes, the coverage is way too much and the very station that you work for Maggie is part of the freak show.

It seems that the media takes every breaking news item much, much too far. As far as his genius was taken, as far as his humanity was taken, his memory/memorial should be taken miles further. For what he achieved during his lifetime, in this universe, Michael Jackson could never be over exposed, over rated, left unsung! Remember him as the greatest entertainer and teacher, no less, in the world!

God Bless the Jackson Family, but enough is enough... I wonder how many know what is happening in the world today..... oh wait, they cant find out because all we hear is MICHAEL JACKSON news..... seriously, get over it people. I grew up michael jackson, I was sad when I heard he passed, but this is over the top.... people should worry as much about politics and how we are being butt rammed by our new hopey changey administration ... now that is NEWS.... news you wont hear because of the biased media........that is another story.....

WAY too much coverage! He was only an entertainer and a good one, but the course of history will not be changed by his passing. No wars will be waged, no national boundaries changed.

I loved michael's music. he was certainly a genius. My prayers are with his family especially his mom and children. It is such a blessing knowing that our heavenly father took his son (Michael) out of his misery and confusion. he (micael) fought a good fight and gave so much of himself to his fans. It's just incredible to have had a person of this magnitude and talent cross our paths.

God bless the family and may Michael R.I.P.

Pamela

MJ has a special quality that touched many people and his legacy will be remembered by the world forever. He is talented, driven and hard working. of course on one is perfect. Those who spoke negatively about him should look at themselves in a mirror.
Please the man rest in peace and with the people who will always love him.

While I mourne like the rest of the world, the passing of a musical and dance genious. I am more saddened by the attitude of the world in whole at the persistant focus on the allegations made against Michael. The man was found NOT GUILTY by a jury of his peers of ALL accusations made against him. There, in my mind, is NO WAY Michael would harm a child when, he himself was a child at heart.
Remember, this is a man who had no childhood as we know it. So therefor he lived his life as an innocent, childlike man. A Peter Pan if you like.
Think of all the good he did for the starving children in Africa, The kids with the HIV Virus etc. People should stop focusing on the negitive aspects of this mans life and begin remembering all the good intentions and hopes this man had for humanity in general. He believed we could achieve anything as a race if we put our mind to it, maybe the whole world should start thinking more like Michael did when he was alive, then, the day might soon come when we can indeed. . . "Heal the World !"
Rest in Peace Michael, another one of my childhood heroes has just left me. Goodbye Michael, Goodbye.

in some peoples eyes the t.v. coverage may be a little over the top today but the networks seem to think differently. yes, some folks say that michael was a sick individual but in his family eyes he was family and we need to respect them today. regardless what michael may or may have done in the past has nothing to do with today. bottomline someone has passed on and he has every right to be honored and remembered as a human bean. i hope the family can find the support that they need at this time and that they will be able to let the healing process begin without all this negativity. RIP Michael, you were to me a music icon and your music will never stop being played.

Not watching at work right now. Since not a one of us know for sure if he did bad things or not we should not be his judge and jury. That is for God to do. If we as a society would like to be judge and jury then cast the 1 st stone and impose sentence as well but be prepared to do unto all as you would like to do to one. The man is dead and if you are not interested change channels, dont buy the magazines and let his fatherless children mourn their father without pointing fingers. If I were parent of an alleged molested child no amount of money would make me drop any criminal charges.

Yes, it is a sad day for the Jackson family, friends and fans. However, he is a person called on to glory. Keep the memories whether it be good or bad and move on! We will all go someday so just pray for the family peace! You know how families are when folks die-drama. Even the rich and famous deal with it.
So,it is what it is. MJ's work on this earth is done and now he's not hurting anymore and neither should anyone else!
And no, I am not watching the show,and I am not insentive. I am a fan, too but I am at work celebrating life because that's what MJ would want and what God told us to do!

It is a shame that the city of Gary, Indiana has chosen, against proper flag etiquette, to fly their U.S. flag at half mast in honor of this "hero". I wonder why no one has thought to lower our flags in memory of the eight U.S. servicemen killed in action over the last few days in Afghanistan?

Farah got to Heaven and God granted her one wish.
She asked God to keep all the children safe.
Poof! God killed Michael Jackson!

It's way way way too much coverage.
Didn't Farrah Fawcett die on the same day? Where's the coverage on her?
This is just silly ... but at least it has kept me from turning on the TV for the last week or so. I've been hanging out outside and getting other things done..so that's been a good thing.

With so much happening in the world enough of Michel Jackson. No matter how you spread it,would you allow a child you care about to go near his house if he lived in your neighborhood. Who is going to pay the good public servants in L.A. for their extra duty to secure the memorial. L.A. is already giving our IOU's for paychecks. Maybe they will get lucky and give our Michael jackson mugs and t-shirts. enough already.

I think all this shows how perverted our country is today.
Sure, he was a good musician, but not a god.
I resent all this.
He surely wasn't a good Jehovah Witness in light of all this.

no i am not watching. i was not a hugh fan of his to begin with but even so they are really going overboard with this. i didnt see all of this with farrah fawcett or ed mcmann.

I haven't really been watching too much of it. I read a little this morning and I started to cry. It all seems so surreal to me. I grew up listening to him and I've always loved him. I feel bad for him. He never got to really experience a normal life. We don't know whether he did the things that he was accused of. Think of this. He was not a happy person. He was obsessed his entire life with trying to become a different person. I think that things that may have happened with his family and all of the media bashing definitely played a part in his self mutilation (physically & mentally). So as for what the media is covering now I just hope that every one will remember him for who he really was and not the monster that he was made out to be for so many years. I agree that we should let him rest in peace. I also believe he would have "died" to see all the love that's being shown for him today.

Wow. Some of the comments are amazing to me. I am not going to say the attention is too much. It is what some people need who feel they have lost a hero and a part of their lives. What I will say is to the people like Penny and Ross who feel somehow authorized to label this man a pervert or pedophile. The comments were so hate-filled. We do not know that he did anything wrong and as time has gone on, we have seen the accusations fall apart. MJ was a much wounded individual who never had a childhood. In many ways, he still was a child. I truly believe that he loved children and while he made some poor choices, I seriously doubt that he was a pervert.

Our soldiers are far better people than Michael Jackson. Farrah and Ed McMahon were far better people...heck, even Billy Mays!
The same people who ridiculed Michael Jackson when he was "allegedly" molesting children are now going on and on about what a wonderful human being he was. Hypocrites. He is dead. Yes it is sad. Yes I feel for his children. Yes I feel for his family. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! I grew up in the 80's; graduated from high school in 1985. HE was not that big. HEck, Durran Durran and Madonna had a bigger following than Michael Jackson did in the 80's. ENOUGH OF MICHAEL JACKSON!

thank you jackson family god bless you for letting my watch michael farewell memorial i love you all michael has taught me to love all things on this planet and he is an insperation to many and million of ppl around this world that he adored and loved very much michael has never had a bad bone in his body ve met michael 2 twice and he is such a gentle man i will never forget his child like laugh in my life hes a legend and the king of pop and my heart goes out to his three beautiful children prince micheal I and paris and prince michael II (blanket) my heart and love go out to them at this sad time love you michael for the love and the kindness that you gave to so many ppl over the years godbless you michael please rest now and you'll never be alone you'll always be in my heart

I think everyone that has talked badly about the King of Pop should be ashamed of themselves! He was a HUGE success not only in music but in humanity and his love for others. Yes, there are allegations of child molestation but for a man that is that big in the media I'm sure people wanted to get a piece of him any way that they can. Besides, who are we to judge? If it did happen then that's between him and God. I think for a man that has done so much and gotten such little respect in return we should definitely be paying tribute like we have been in the last weeks. RIP MJ! I hope and pray that you found the Lord before passing... God Bless you!

I CNT BELIEVE THIS HAS HAPPENED =[
IT IS A LITTLE BIT TOO MUCH MEDIA COVERAGE BUT YOU CANT BLAME THEM MICHEAL IS TRULY THE KING OF POP
MY HEART GOES OUT TO THE JACKSON FAMILY AND MAY MICHEAL JACKSON RIP

I agree with Tanya Smith.. He's a human being like anyone else.. When you lose someone you defentitely hurt.. Michael Jackson was and will be a legend!!!
I just can't understand all these people saying stupid remarks and talking this way about MJ.

And for everyone's information: that boy accusing Michael about molestation, came out saying it wasn't true!!

I beleive MJ loved kids and always tried for a better world..

Please keep your ugly comments to yourselves and instead pray you don't lose a loved one! Let's show some respect here!!

Yes, it really is too much! I think most people agree that he was a great entertainer, and was in the business for so long, but I wouldn't classify him as a hero. He was an entertainer (period). Where is the respect and displays of mourning for Veteran's who die for this country? Why aren't we honoring them more? Around 1300 WWII Vets are dying everyday! We are losing our Greatest Generation and no one is out there mourning them! And the molestation charges...at this point, if he was guilty or not,--
(if appropriate)he has been judged by a higher force and that's not for anyone to worry about anymore.

I know of at least 8 heros that died last month and their not no 'king of pop`, but I'm sure they will be forgotten, their on their way back home in a box fresh from Iraq. God Bless.

ENOUGH!!!!!!! Yes he was talented. So are many other people. What about the soldiers in Irag? I don't see them closing streets for the funeral processions. They are doing a lot more for the world than MJ did. We should be mourning the life his "children" will have to live. They are never going to have a normal life. Heck we don't even know for sure the he's their father. It will be interesting to see the test results. I truly believe the children should go back to their mothers. The youngest one probably doesn't even know who that it is. Let MJ rest in peace, and let the rest of have some peace and quiet.

Michael was a great entertainer when he was young. In his later years when he started doing all the surgeries he turned into a freak. I think they are putting him on a pedestal for stupid reasons. They should be taking the money they are spending and put it to much better use like on the California budget, or helping children that are molested by freaks of nature like Michael is. You notice that everything about our military disapeared of the news when he died. They are the ones that need our support and prayers.

I was amazed. I have a TV in my shop so I can watch/listen while I work. I couldn't keep my eyes off the TV today. It was an amazing tribute by an amazing group of people. I have never listened to Michael Jackson much, but apparently the entire world has. The earth almost stood still today. He will go down in history as an amazing and talented performer. People flew in from all over the world just to get a glimpse of the procession to the stadium.

Many of the local comments just confirm the far right bigots are still alive and well in Idaho.

Michael was a great entertainer when he was young. In his later years when he started doing all the surgeries he turned into a freak. I think they are putting him on a pedestal for stupid reasons. They should be taking the money they are spending and put it to much better use like on the California budget, or helping children that are molested by freaks of nature like Michael is. You notice that everything about our military disapeared of the news when he died. They are the ones that need our support and prayers.

People who want to believe that Michael Jackson was a child molester are the sick ones. At first, I didn't know what to think. Having listened to testimoney from some of his friends, and others who have spent many hours with him, it is obvious he is not a child molestor.

Those who are quick to say he is a paedophile should look at themselves and their willingness to think such things. He wasn't even found guilty when people were desperate to blacken his name. Try looking at the truth, people, and not malicious gossip, then you might become a tiny part of the human being he was.

Oh, come on. It is obvious he was not a child molestor. Even people who were desperate to blacken his name couldn't provide enough evidence to convict him. Those who want to believe these lies are the sick ones. Even if he had boys in his bed, it is obvious he was just an innocent who was trying to relive a childhood he never had. Maybe it is his judgers who have the sick minds!!

Andrea

YES.. it's way too much coverage. Enough already.
didn't Farrah die on the same day? Why is there no coverage to be found anywere of her?
Let's give it a break and move on to some real news now please.

It makes me SO SICK to see all of the holier than thou idiots hurling judgment onto a man that truly only preached love and self-sacrifice. He did so much to end suffering happening all around the world, with his time AND money.

To call him a pedophile and child molester is uneducated, ignorant, and pathetic.

MJ - Thank you for your MOUNTAINS of charitable acts and for sharing your soul with each of us. SO MANY people could learn SO MUCH from you if they would simply SHUT UP, listen to the message, and reserve judgment when they do not know the facts.

YOU WILL BE MISSED MICHAEL, especially by those of us with at least half a brain.

Yes, this is too much! I think there are more important topics.

I watched all of the coverage today and I even cried when his daughter wanted to tell everyone that she loved her daddy. A child has lost her father. And with all the mudslinging in the above comments, i truly believe that he also is a child of God like we all are. He once said "I don't read all the negative things they write about me such as I am weird and different. When you grow up in front of millions of people like I was since the age of 5, you can't help but be different." MJ is a part of my childhood, something that i think as adults we forget to embrace. And with as different as his life was, he was lucky enough to find a childhood much later on in life.

I am also disgusted at this comment "thank god another pervert is gone. he was mentally ill as well." Shall we wish the death of all those who are pained, troubled and diseased in this life, even mentally. He was aquitted of all charges, so all you can really go on is that he was different. On this earth, we will all have our trials and tribulations to over come. And Michael's life and everything that came with it is one to know, whether we understand it or not. He changed this world and i will forever love him for it. Thank you Michael.

the people who need this king of coverage are the ones who are true heros. all the people killed daiy defending our country. where is their coverage. this country has it's priorities completely backwards. any death is horrible, but to use death as a means of profit and entertainment is a horrible thing to do. then again when has our country cared of anything except making money by any means posible.he

I just want to say that if you want to watch go ahead if not then don't. If you don't have anything good to say, then don't say anything at all...
GOD BLESS

As much as I liked Michael Jackson as a kid, I find the amount of attention he is getting is a farce. He did a lot of good deeds, yes, his music was amazing, yes, he had his legal issues, his money issues, and his death was a great loss, but we don't need to shut down every network on the face of the earth to cover his death and funeral. We especially don't need to have everything around his death analyzed and investigated by reporters. I really think we should say good by in a short tasteful manner, on 1 channel, and leave the investigative work to the LAPD or LA County Sheriff's Dept. We don't need to have every expert on the planet giving their feedback and their "expert knowledge". All the investigation and analyzation in the world is not going to bring him back. He's dead, let's mourn, let's get him buried, and let's move on. All TV stations are trying to do is get ratings, that's it. Stop enabling the corporate pig.

I am a soldier and a free American citizen who completely understands and enjoys my rights, and i have no illusions about what i do or do not have a "right" to have. I have no problem with the amount of coverage being placed on Michael Jackson, his life, or his death. if at any time i find that i don't wish to hear or see any more...i'll just change the channel or turn the TV off altogether...that's my right. I don't have the ego that some people seem to have enough to assume that the media and/or broadcasters are here to serve my every want and whim when it comes to what is placed on the air at any given time. what is selected to be shown, is what is on...and if i don't want to watch it...i don't have to.
I grew up in the 70's and 80's when Michael Jackson was considered to be having his best publicity and performances, and i have to admit that i was never really aware just how much that man and his music were an integral part of my life all this time, until the day he was pronounced dead. the best way i can think to describe it is from an "entertainment" perspective, and to use the analogy of a movie and it's accompanied soundtrack. A movie without any kind of soundtrack would be boring and somewhat un-interesting. The soundtrack gives a movie more emotion and thus makes it more interesting and worth watching. Michael Jackson was one of the more notable entertainers that was providing the "soundtrack" for many people's lives...including my own. I think back on alot of his music and how certain songs remind me of certain times, places, and feelings as i was growing up.
I don't think that this particular blog was meant to bring up or rehash all the controversial things about Michael Jackson's private life...alot of which was never proven. so my recommendation to everyone is to simply ignore those who have been openly spewing their unfounded hatred for a man they never knew or met, and to ignore the religious idealogists who seem to think that they have some kind of right to be defying their own beliefs and their God by passing final judgment on another soul.
Ignore them the same way you might ignore a TV program you don't want to watch...simply change the channel or turn it off.
Thank you Michael Jackson, for your music and the memories. May you be at peace now and go with God.

I am a soldier and a free American citizen who completely understands and enjoys my rights, and i have no illusions about what i do or do not have a "right" to have. I have no problem with the amount of coverage being placed on Michael Jackson, his life, or his death. if at any time i find that i don't wish to hear or see any more...i'll just change the channel or turn the TV off altogether...that's my right. I don't have the ego that some people seem to have enough to assume that the media and/or broadcasters are here to serve my every want and whim when it comes to what is placed on the air at any given time. what is selected to be shown, is what is on...and if i don't want to watch it...i don't have to.
I grew up in the 70's and 80's when Michael Jackson was considered to be having his best publicity and performances, and i have to admit that i was never really aware just how much that man and his music were an integral part of my life all this time, until the day he was pronounced dead. the best way i can think to describe it is from an "entertainment" perspective, and to use the analogy of a movie and it's accompanied soundtrack. A movie without any kind of soundtrack would be boring and somewhat un-interesting. The soundtrack gives a movie more emotion and thus makes it more interesting and worth watching. Michael Jackson was one of the more notable entertainers that was providing the "soundtrack" for many people's lives...including my own. I think back on alot of his music and how certain songs remind me of certain times, places, and feelings as i was growing up.
I don't think that this particular blog was meant to bring up or rehash all the controversial things about Michael Jackson's private life...alot of which was never proven. so my recommendation to everyone is to simply ignore those who have been openly spewing their unfounded hatred for a man they never knew or met, and to ignore the religious idealogists who seem to think that they have some kind of right to be defying their own beliefs and their God by passing final judgment on another soul.
Ignore them the same way you might ignore a TV program you don't want to watch...simply change the channel or turn it off.
Thank you Michael Jackson, for your music and the memories. May you be at peace now and go with God.

Way too much coverage!

Oh but when the broncos win the freaking fiesta bowl (Which we get reminded of every other day) this kinda coverage is ok??? I know its not exactly the same amount but it was still a ridiculous amount. Guy was a legend all the crazy stuff or not he deserves respect

I think if you don't want to watch it, read about it, etc, etc. then don't. It is just that simple. I choose to watch simply because I feel this man has done great things. He wasn't just a great entertainer, he was also a great philanthropist. He holds a world record for giving the most out of any celebrity to charity. I think that should count for something. His music was about more than the garbage you hear on the radio today. I remember his song, "Black or White" or "Man in the Mirror"...there were a whole host of other songs that were positive and optimistic. I believe in our justice system, the same just system that exonerated him. I believe in the work he did. If it is too much, then perhaps we are responsible for that. Don't hold it against the man, let him rest in peace already!!!

Too much, already! If I never hear Jackson's name again it will likely be too soon. We have real heros dying in the middle east - our soldiers! Jackson's family is due condolences and comfort but for days we have been thrashed with old information ad nauseum. He is NOT by any means a "God" to be worshipped nor does his death mean the end of the world. We have real problems to deal with: the economy, politics, and in a very real tragedy here at home a Middleton conundrum. How do you decide whether your children or your husband will get medical care and a healthful environment. Enough of this ugly circus already.

Anyone know when a weekend long marathon of Charlies Angel's is coming on? Until then..I'll keep it turned down so I can stay tuned out. This guy isn't going to be dead for a long long time. Thank God for cable and iPods. Seriously.

No it is not too much! The media frenzy when he was wrongly accused but never proven of child molestation was TOO MUCH! This is a time that the family of MJ showed his personal side. The side of MJ that made him a caring, giving, shy individual. Being in the record book of the most generous charity donor is a credit to his character. He cared for others and gave to others. When you have individuals who stand up and celebrate MJ like Mandela, King family, other sports and movie stars you know that this superstar was humble he was an individual who cared. He had the foresight to carry out visits to military hospitals to shake the military patients hands to thank them for their service and sacrafice for our country.

I think that people should remember MJ through his lyrics of his songs. "Heal the world. Make it a better place".

Yes it has been to much, We just need to move on from this. He was a entertainer with lots of money. We need to be thinking about the men and women that are fighting for are country. MJ kids needs to be thought of though all of this.

all of you guys should get a life..MJ's the man...and this world will miss him dearly..so get a life people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

How about we HONOR our service men and women who gave thier lives for our freedom. They are the ones that deserve this kind of coverage. They are the true HERO's.

MICHAEL JACKSON

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I understand MJ was a big deal and all... but what about all of the great Americans in the military that give up their lives for us everyday? We don't see their life stories and funerals broadcasted on every channel and all over the internet. Just something to think about...

Way too much! He wasn't president or a national hero. Let him go.

I hate to keep using the same phrase, but Michael Jackson was another freak show. A 50 year old man that acted like a little boy, slept with little boys and had his own face altered to look like some kind of pixie. Is this someone to idolize or use as a role model? "Thriller" was a pretty good album, but that was 25 years ago, and if you can manage to step away from the personality (or lack thereof) that was Michael Jackson, you'll see that his music really wasn't that innovative, or even very good for that matter. If if hadn't been for Vincent Price, "Thriller" would have only been a moderately successful album. I heard someone compare his dancing to Fred Astaire. Come on...Michael Jackson wasn't even in the same league. His music was repetitive and without depth. Perhaps his fans see him as some kind of validation for their own behavior. I don't know, but I do know he wasn't that good, and certainly doesn't derserve this kind of attention. Another writer described the "cult of personality mentality" that we have in this country today. I agree. There wasn't anything all that special about Michael Jackson. He was by definition, "a freak". When he was alive I honestly felt sorry for him. Now, I just hope he finds peace.

No, I don't think it is! Michael Jackson is a legend and everyone needs to remember this day. Because this day and the day that he died will go down in history. He was the greatest entertainer to ever walk the face of the earth and I strongly believe we will never see another entertainer such as Michael Jackson.

You need to remember what he stood for. Michael Jackson was a Humanitarian. He strived to make this world a better place for the children and for everyone else. Michael was a Dad before anything else. From his daughter today, "daddy has been the best Father you can ever imagine".

This man broke racial barriers. He set records in the music industry. He was the only Pop singer to have given so much of his money and efforts into charities. Michael Jackson is still breaking records in the music industry as we sit here right now.

It says something when the U.S. House of Representatives holds a moment of silence for this man. Which means they stop EVERYTHING!

He's respected in all areas of the world and I believe he deserves the coverage he is receiving. He was a great man, and an innocent man, according to Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, "people are innocent, until proven guilty."

So, Michael Jackson - this is for you! It is a shame that you had to die to receive the attention and respect that you deserve. You will live forever in our hearts - Long live The King of Pop! God bless.

It is really amazing to me how many CLOSE minded people live here in the valley. I love to see all the people in the WORLD coming together and forgetting all the bad in all of life to mourn, notice and celebrate what a great Superstar he was. God Bless Michael Jackson.

Over the top? YES!! That is the understatement of the decade!! The attention he is getting is sickening... and no, I never did like his music, even growing up when he was at the top of the charts. Why give him so much attention? Because we have our priorities so screwed up! I saw this list on another website and these are the folks we should be honoring:

These are the men who were great. These were the American military members died in Iraq and Afghanistan in the last month:

These men were great and died while serving and protecting us and our country not embarrassing it with antics like Jackson.

Sergeant Justin J. Duffy
Specialist Christopher M. Kurth
Specialist Charles D. Parrish
Lance Corporal Robert D. Ulmer
Staff Sergeant Edmond L. Lo
Sergeant Joshua W. Soto
Captain Kafele H. Sims
Specialist Chancellor A. Keesling
Sergeant Jones, Ricky D.
Specialist Munguia Rivas, Rodrigo A.
Command Master Chief Petty Officer Garber, Jeffrey J.
1st Sergeant Blair, John D.
Sergeant Smith, Paul G.
Staff Sergeant Melton, Joshua
Sergeant 1st Class Dupont, Kevin A.
Specialist O'Neill, Jonathan C.
Chief Warrant Officer Richardson Jr., Ricky L.
Specialist Silva, Eduardo S.
Lance Corporal Whittle, Joshua R.
Major Barnes, Rocco M.
Major Jenrette, Kevin M.
Staff Sergeant Beale, John C.
Specialist Jordan, Jeffrey W.
Specialist Griemel, Jarrett P.
Specialist Hernandez I, Roberto A.
Sergeant Obakrairur, Jasper K.
Staff Sergeant Hall, Jeffrey A.
Private 1st Class Ogden, Matthew D.
Private 1st Class Wilson, Matthew W.

While I was shocked to hear of his death, I definitely think there has been too much coverage of Michael's death, autopsy, and memorial service. I was disappointed that Farrah didn't get more coverage. I think some coverage and updates is acceptable; after all Michael Jackson certainly impacted the music industry. However, I also think that too much is just ridiculous. We haven't been watching any of the coverage after the first two days. I think the line between "news" and "sensationalism" has definitely been crossed.

Get better soon Maggie!

I think the media coverage is WAY overdone!! Poor Farrah died the same day, fought her cancer for 3 years and I saw and heard only about 2 minutes of her funeral. What about Ed McMahon? He was an American icon next to Johnny Carson? I never heard anything about his funeral either. The other day I heard a snippit about some American soldiers who were killed, but the top story again was MJ. He was a staple of the American generation when I was growing up, but after he started to get stranger, I think he lost alot of fans and people are just sorry for being judgemental or feel guilty about whatever they said or thought about him. Come on people, focus on news that makes a difference in our world!!!

I think it is sad that his passing overshadows the passing and message that Farrah Fawcett had for the world or to acknowledge the passing of Jack Klugman. Bury the glove, put the tribute on cable and let's move on

I think the coverage was okay, but now I hope it will stop. I don't want to hear about his burial plans for the next two weeks. I am amazed that when I turn on the TV, every news agency tells you the same story all over again like we were all on another planet or something! We just watched it live, and then we have to hear all about it again from KTVB, NBC, Entertainment tonight.
I am also amazed at these Fans that don't seem to ever have to work. The lady from London who gave up her job, sold everything, and came to LA for the Memorial, and didn't even have a ticket! Grow up lady. I wonder if I would still have a job if I told my boss that I was taking the next 2 weeks off to go mourn on a street corner for Michael Jackson.

I think that Micheal is getting way to much coverage. I just think about the true and real people of this country. The soldiers, teachers, social workers,etc. the everyday people. None of us WOULD EVER get this kind of attention in the news. Why is it that people who have the money get the attention? It should be the people who actually made a difference that get the attention and recognition that they deserve. Would like to see the people who have made a difference to others, in a positive manner get the news coverage that they should have.

I think it is sickening. we have men dying over seas and no one even seems to care, then here is this pervert who liked to sleep with little boys. He was ashamed of his own race to the point he made him self look like a freek try to change who he was and we are worshiping him. This younger generation has no concept of what is important in life.

Jack Klugman died? I can't find any information to support that statement....

Anyway, about MJ. No, I've not watched any of it. In my opinion the coverage has been over the top. But unfortunately the media is simply giving the public what it wants, and we seem to be obsessed with celebrity. The weirder, the better.

Sad, really. Maybe now the poor guy can get some peace.

I am struggling to understand the psyche of a society that idolizes entertainers over the heroes who have died and are dying as I speak to protect the freedoms they are enjoying. We as a society have lost sight of what is important. We have lost allot of great actors in the last few weeks. One of them was a decorated veteran, but the press just skimmed over the coverage of his passing. So, I say, enough already with coverage on Michael. He was a great talent with questionable morals and ethics. Let him go the peace he did not find here in this dimension. Stop the presses, let's not let financial gains keep these flames burning.

I did not watch the funeral because I knew I would see the highlights during the news and that's enough for me.

There is always a lot of coverage for famous people and I just accept that it'll always be that way.

The only opinion I have is I question why the Jackson family is exposing the children so much when it is obviously the exact opposite of what Michael Jackson wanted for his children. Most of the time Michael seemed to try and keep his children from the media.

Thank you for your blog, Maggie.

I would like to take a moment to comment on a post above. It is from a wonen by the name of, MARSHA
First off, Religion has nothing to do with what we are discussing.My husband grew up a "JW" and was excommunicated for "WHATEVER REASON". His family members are NOT allowed to speak to him and the whole family unit has been broken. This is not GOD doing this..IT IS MAN!!
I pray for MARSHA!! I pray that you will receive the love of Christ in your heart and see that you are being mislead. Remember, it is the soldiers and the american flag that give YOU,the JW, the right to use this website to share your views.
As fo MJ..the coverage may be a little much but I did watch it. I felt compelled to honor a man who was a humanitarian. A man who sinned in this world like all of us. Any MATURE adult,religious or not,who has a compassonate heart needs to get out of their own selfish skin and respect the family in their mourning.
One more thing, I don't watch the news anymore. IT is heartbreaking and seems to focus WAY TO MUCH on the negative. Case in point..Micheal Jackson.

We all must take responsibility for our own actions. Not daddy's fault, not mommy's fault. I am resposible for me. The media is bent on distracting our citizens from real news in this country in order to silently assist in the downing of our freedom......

Hello Miss Maggie O'Mara....

Why such a negative blog? Why not just let those that want to celebrate and enjoy Michael Jackson's life do so, without the stirring of negative emotions?

Being in the public eye as you are, you have the influence and power to create such anomosity and we here in Idaho do not need this with the narrow-mindedness that already exists here. I think you already knew, as you sat at home in boredom, what kind of reaction you would get. I am sure you are proud of yourself that so many here in Boise would agree with you.

Obviously I am not one, but this blog goes well beyond Michael Jackson for me. You report stories all the time over and over and over again, on local people. Mostly negative stories. I suppose you become numb after awhile in your kind of work, but do you ever stop to think about how you effect so many lives, in bad ways?

Again, you have the power to leave a message and why not let that message sometimes be positive? I think this blog was sad and I truly believe I am living in the wrong place. I certainly have a new opinion of how you report your news.

Hello Shannon -

I wasn't intending to be negative, I just wanted to know how other people feel about the whole thing. This BLOG doesn't have a lot to do with my opinions about Michael Jackson - it's simply a conversation starter. This is a place where people can post their thoughts and feelings freely and without being censored - that's what makes America great.

If you re-read the BLOG post, I never said anything negative about Jackson, I was just in awe of all the coverage about him. I think it's a bit excessive. That's not negative or postitive, that's just my opinion. As a matter of fact, I found portions of the service very touching - especially when his daughter spoke about him.

The negative (and positive) comments came from our posters. If people want to be negative, I welcome it. If people want to be positive, I welcome it. I also welcome your comments, your opinion is certainly respected here too.

Thanks for posting -

Maggie O'Mara

Enough coverage, we don't have to know everything, nor do I want to.

It makes sense that if you aren't able to relate to one or more aspects of a person or what they do, then you are not going to "get" what the people who DO get it, are mourning. It was also true of Princess Diana. Some of US didn't get the media coverage about HER either, except that someone remarkable had passed among us and was suddenly taken. But, isn't that enough for those who "got" her? Michael Jackson offered his musical and dance genius to the world and those of us who can relate to pop music and especially dance know what has passed among US. It's not just his physical passing, but the passing of some part of our OWN lives as individuals and the pivotal role he played in that. He was the Frank Lloyd Wright of dance...meaning he inherently KNEW how to move, how to capture and portray an emotion through the perfect positioning of his body at a certain point in his music, the angles,the lines,the symmetry, that gave us the feeling of having received the perfect representation of his words AND his message. How we can imagine OURSELVES moving to his music if we were only capable of portraying it to that level of intensity, focus, precision and talent. That is what is referred to as genius. One highly educated friend of mine used to refer to ballet as "thump, thump, slide." To each his own. So those of us who GOT him are quite understandably reluctant to say goodbye. I love ya Maggie, but you obviously don't get it. And that's ok too, just please allow those of us who do, to take as long as we need to say goodbye.

Fan of MJ -

I "get" you! :) Thanks for your comments... keep them coming.

Thank YOU Maggie for giving us a place to post. And for always being the upbeat, positive, smiling persona we (of any intelligence) :) look forward to seeing every morning along with our cup of coffee. You are the best that local news has to offer!

I will keep my personal opinions of what I think of Michael Jackson to myself since this isn't about what I thought of him as a performer. This post is to answer the question, "Is his death getting too much news coverage?" And the the answer is, of course, YES!!! OMG...I am so annoyed with tv right now, no story should be beaten to death like this. If you loved MJ's music or him as a person or whatever, you wouldn't want the news and other channels to play the coverage over and over...repeating and repeating until you just want to "Scream." Why couldn't they be classy about it and just report it, have a moment, maybe show a one SHORT segment on the funeral and get it over with. I understand maybe that one of the music networks would want to do like a tribute or something, but don't keep showing it over and over. It's like when they over play a really good song on the radio...after you hear it so many times, it loses it's charm and you slowly begin to hate it! There is so much other news that we never get to hear about. We have 24 hour news and yet we know very few things about what's going on all around the world. It's just wrong.

Maggie - I also watched the Michael Jackson airing, the same way I used to read People magazine. I guess the coverage of celebrities helps me feel like my life is somewhat NORMAL...but what I realize is that today's NORMAL is ABNORMAL.

The sad thing to me about this kind of coverage and our own fascination with celebrities is that we place them on a pedestal and then tear them apart...what a difficult journey our society creates for the rich and famous.

It seems wrong to scrutinize others and, as I watched Michael Jackson's life unfold, I felt sorry for him, despite the judgment that rose in me as a mommy to four boys and the possibility of this man taking advantage of little boys was exposed in the headlines once again.

I feel that our celebrities are forced to live out wierd, isolated lives that are beyond the norm, even by today's standard and we must, in some way, take some responsibility for our contribution to where we place people in our society....so I courageously shut the tv off...and focused on my family...which was tough to do...but I felt I needed to do my part.

Incidently, I no longer purchase PEOPLE magazine.

Michael was real, he was magnanimous, ubiquitous even, and he had a message that only the intelligent, open minded could hear. He wanted peace, but so many gave him grief in return and he truly was a victim. One comment here was why someone would want to grieve over someone they did not know! How ignorant and cold hearted. First of all, we did know him, we grew up with him, his music and genius was in our homes, his love was in our hearts if a person could fathom it. I feel pain for many good people who get hurt or pass away whether I know them or not and whether they were famous or not. People who ridicule those who mourned for the loss of this man have no heart for his children, no heart for his family and obviously then; not enough heart for their own loved ones.
This memorial was necessary. Necessary for not only those who loved him and his work and what he tried so hard to get through to us, but for those who are ill informed, misinformed and uninformed so that they too can learn what he tried to do for the world. If they still did not get it, then we have to realize that we can’t fix stupid!!
No, I do not think his coverage is too much.

While I was shocked to hear of his death, I definitely think there has been too much coverage of Michael's death, autopsy, and memorial service. I was disappointed that Farrah didn't get more coverage. I think some coverage and updates is acceptable; after all Michael Jackson certainly impacted the music industry. However, I also think that too much is just ridiculous. We haven't been watching any of the coverage after the first two days. I think the line between "news" and "sensationalism" has definitely been crossed.

Get better soon Maggie!

I think that if people thought it was too much, then they should have just turned off their TV's and go find something else to do. MJ was a great man that was NEVER convicted of molesting those kids. His most of his life was in the spotlight for everyone to see and analize. I grew up with his music and will continue to enjoy listening to it until the day that I die. My heart and prayers go out to the family! You will be missed Michael!

Whew! It's nice to know I'm not crazy. I was thinking days ago the amount of coverage being given him was way over the top! Farrah Fawcett died just the day before, and Ed McMahon a few days before her. Pretty much all we heard about them was they died. Now, here we are almost TWO WEEKS LATER and still hearing about Michael Jackson. Why? I was a teenager in the '80s and never interested in Michael Jackson. Then when I heard about all the plastic surgery and actually saw a picture of him... WHOA!! He got some major circuits crossed! He wasn't born white! Just because he was famous doesn't automatically mean he was brilliant, genius or even good at what he did. All it means is that he was famous.

Jackie, I think the actual question was if we were watching or not and why.

To Idaho Grown -
You are one of the many people that live under a rock. You wouldn't think of all the amazing things that Michael Jackson did for this world because it didn't impact your sheltered little life in anyway. You didn't like his music, enough said. I loved his music and just for the record, it goes without being said, he was a brilliant talented entertainer and a genius. If he was not good at what he did he would have never broken so many musical and racial barriers. And the whole Farrah Fawcett and Ed McMahon thing... they didn't get coverage because they were expected to die... Farrah had cancer... she died... nothing suspicious about that. Ed McMahon was old... he died... nothing suspicious about that. Michael Jackson... only 50 years of age, died... something up with that.

A lot of you may not consider Michael Jackson a "Hero". I do. He wanted to make this world a better place, he donated so much his effort, time and money into helping around the world. He may not be one of our soldiers serving in the war. But he has the same characteristics of them, compassion, perseverance and Michael love this WORLD (not just this country) to try and make a difference.

I do not discount facts of charitable donations and time spent allowing people to see him. However, if he wanted to relate to people or vice-versa, why change his appearance to something looking not real? Why would he bleach his skin to look like he'd never seen the light of day? I can only think of one reason... he had major circuits crossed. He must've been ashamed of being black. There is absolutely nothing wrong with being black. What about admitting to enjoying sleeping with little boys? When kids have sleepovers, they don't sleep in the same beds. They take sleeping bags! If I have been living a sheltered life under a rock and come out to a society with priorities like these (practically worshiping Michael Jackson), I say... WHERE'S MY ROCK?!!!

I still love my local channel 7 news but the network is giving this a big coverage while draconic legislation that will affect us all for generations to come is not being put on air.