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November 11th, 2009 | By Rick From Chicago
What is it with celebrity and writing these tell all books? $$$$$
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Articles Tagged with: brooke shields
What is it with celebrity and writing these tell all books? $$$$$
Paris Jackson spoke about the loss of her father Michael Jackson
Various Artists performed ‘We Are The World’
Shaheen Jafargholi performed ‘Who’s Lovin’ You’
Usher performed ‘Gone Too Soon’
Jeremaine Jackson performed ‘Smile’, MJ’s favorite song
Brooke Shields spoke candidly about Michael Jackson
John Mayer performed ‘Human Nature’
Jennifer Hudson performed ‘Will You Be There’
Kobe Bryant was joined by Magic Johnson, who shared a KFC story about MJ
Stevie Wonder performed ‘I Never Dreamed’
Lionel Richie performed ‘Jesus Is Loved’
Mariah Carey & Trey Lorenz performed ‘I’ll Be There’

Family and friends gathered in Encino, Calif., early Tuesday morning as they prepared to leave for Jackson’s funeral at Forest Lawn Cemetery in L.A. Last night, family also gathered at Forest Lawn Memorial Park for a private viewing.

A processional of cars departed Katherine Jackson’s Encino, Calif., mansion, Hayvenhurst, to go to the private funeral. A dozen-car police motorcade was also spotted inside the Forest Lawn Memorial Park around 7 a.m. PST, a witness told Us. Security checked each car that was admitted into the cemetery.

LaToya Jackson, Michael’s sister, sat in a car that was part of the line of vehicles that arrived at the funeral shortly after 8 a.m. PST. Her father, Joe Jackson, was in the first car of the processional, which included six Bentleys and Rolls Royces, eight Land Rovers, two limo buses and 19 California Highway Police motorcycle cops.

Before the memorial began on Tuesday, Los Angeles police officers checked the stage of the Staples Center, which was the same venue where Jackson rehearsed for his London concert tour just two days before he died on June 25. Below the stage, the front row was surrounded by large bouquets of multicolored flowers.

After the short, 30-minute service, Jackson’s casket — covered in a giant arrangement of red roses — was loaded into the hearse at Forest Lawn Memorial Park and made its way to the Staples Center, which was 10 miles away.

Fans gathered outside L.A.’s Staples Center the day of Jackson’s public memorial. More than 1.6 million people registered online for a chance to attend the ceremony, and only 8,750 names were chosen. Those with a ticket were given a free 14-page souvenir program with personalized notes from family and loved ones as they entered. Fans who brought gifts were asked to leave their offerings at a special table inside.

Outside the Staples Center, fans paid tribute to the late King of Pop, including an impersonator who posed in Jackson’s ’80s era, classic white glove. Many fans danced to Jackson’s biggest hits and showed off some of his signature moves, including his moonwalk and the infamous crotch-grabbing routine.

Vendors took the opportunity to sell T-shirts — that said “R.I.P. August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009″ — and other memorabilia outside the Staples Center.

Fans signed a large black-and-white poster of Michael Jackson outside the Staples Center.

Don King was one of the few stars to drive past the Staples Center’s press line with his window open. The boxing promoter, who departed the Jackson family compound for the memorial service earlier in the day, smiled and waved an American flag.

Usher posed with Jennifer Hudson — and her baby bump in a Martin Katz dress — backstage at the public memorial for Jackson. Hudson, pregnant with her first child, suffered the tragic loss of her own family members — her mother, brother and 7-year-old nephew were murdered — last October. After taking time off, she returned to the spotlight in February.

Brooke Shields and Magic Johnson attended the memorial service. The model-turned-actress spoke at the memorial about how they first met when she was 13 years old and instantly became friends. Although she said in an interview with Rolling Stone that he became asexual to her as he started to change physically, during her tearful eulogy, she smiled and said that “Michael always knew he could count on me to be his date.”

Chris Brown — who was sentenced to five years of probation and 180 days of community labor after pleading guilty to felony assault after beating his ex-girlfriend Rihanna — attended the memorial service, which will include performances by Mariah Carey, Lionel Richie and others.

The Keeping Up With the Kardashians family — with Kim, Kourtney and Khloe all dressed in black — arrived at the Staples Center shortly after 9:30 a.m. PST. “It’s just really important to be here to support the Jackson family,” Kim, who used to visit Neverland Ranch every year as a child, told Us. “My family and I have known them for years, so it’s really special to be here for them.”

Lighting technicians and stage hands quickly finished setting up the stage, which included a giant screen that read “In Loving Memory of Michael Jackson King of Pop,” as people made their way into the arena.

As he did at an appearance on a Larry King Live the day Jackson died, Corey Feldman dressed as his old friend and wore a black Dangerous-era military jacket, a fedora and sunglasses. At one point, the actor — who referred to Jackson as “my idol, role model and a very dear friend to me, almost like a brother” — used a tissue to wipe a tear from under his shades.

Jackson’s brothers –Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and Randy — carried their brother’s casket onto the stage at 10:30 a.m. PST. They all wore sunglasses and sparkling silver gloves as the crowd stood and applauded. The song, “We Are Going to See the King,” began playing.

Jackson’s parents Joe and Katherine arrived with Jackson’s 12-year-old son, Prince. As they entered the front rows, more than 30 other family members made their way to their seats. His other two children, Paris, 11, and Blanket, 7, were also there.

Mariah Carey, in a black gown by Jenny Packham, sang the first song at the public memorial, the Jackson 5 hit “I’ll Be There.” She was joined by Trey Lorenz as images of Jackson 5 flashed on the screen behind them.

Before quoting Maya Angelou, Queen Latifah spoke to the crowd. “He thrived with passion and compassion, humor and style, she said. “Whether we knew who he was or did not know, he was ours and we were his… Somehow, when Michael Jackson sang, when he danced, you never felt distance. You felt like you were right there… Michael was the biggest star on earth.”

Lionel Richie — whose daughter, Nicole Richie, is the goddaughter of Jackson — sang “Jesus Is Loved.” As he performed the gospel song, people in the crowd held hands, and afterwards, he walked right off stage and back to his seat in the fifth row.

As he sat at a grand piano, Stevie Wonder addressed the crowd. “This is a moment that I wish I didn’t live to see coming,” he said. “But as much as I can say that we mean it, I do know that God is good… Michael, I love you, and I’ve told you that many times.” He performed “Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer.”

More than a week after she thanked fans for their support on behalf of her family at the BET Awards on June 28, Jackson’s sister, attended the public memorial. The somber-looking Janet wore a black dress, beret and pearls as she stood with her parents.

John Mayer performed “Human Nature” on his guitar as the crowd clapped along. After, Jackson’s brothers all got up to hug the musician.

Jermaine Jackson held the microphone with his sparkling white glove as he sang Charlie Chaplin’s “Smile,” which was his younger brother’s favorite song. Jermaine was the original lead singer of the Jackson Brothers before forming the Jackson 5, in which he co-led vocals with the late singer.

The Jackson family sat in the front row at the Staples Center. From left, siblings Rebbie, Janet, Randy, Tito, Marlon, Jackie and Jermaine watched as stars celebrated the late musician’s life. His five brothers wore matching gloves.

Usher places his hand on Jackson’s casket while singing “Gone Too Soon.” Photos of Jackson as a child flash on the screen behind him. After his tearful performance, he hugged Jackson’s sister LaToya and broke into sobs. He then kneeled down to speak to Katherine and Joe before returning to his seat.

Britain’s Got Talent star Shaheen Jafargholi — who had been personally invited to join in Jackson’s comeback tour in London — sang “Who’s Lovin’ You.” After the song, he said: “I love Michael Jackson. I just want to thank him so much for blessing me and every single individual on this earth.”

As children and celebs took the stage to sing “Heal the World,” Janet Jackson stands with Prince, Paris and Blanket, who shielded his face with a Michael Jackson doll. At one point, Paris kissed Blanket’s hands as they all sang along.

After Jermaine and Marlon speak, Paris asked for the microphone. “I just wanted to say, ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine,” she said through sobs. “And I just wanted so say I love him so much,” Janet embraced her before she and several other family members led the 11-year-old off the stage.

Kenny Ortega, who was directing Jackson’s comeback tour, introduced a group to sing “We Are the World.” Stars such as Lionel Richie and Jennifer Hudson were on stage for the performance as well as his daughter Paris and other family members.

Jackson’s casket, which remained on the stage throughout the entire two-hour televised memorial, was rolled out by family members as an instrumental version of “Man in the Mirror” played. After Jackson family friend Pastor Lucius Smith read a benediction, the event drew to a close.
(Photo Credits: INF photo, Wally Skalij-Pool/Getty Images/Us Weekly)

8:01 a.m.: Jesse Jackson is the first celeb to hit the row of press stand-ups.
9:06 a.m.: Stage has double podiums, double drum sets. Jackson’s song “Rock With You” is playing on a speaker.
As guests enter Staples, they are given a 14-page color program with personalized notes from the family and loved ones. The program features photos of Jackson from all phases of career. “My brother developed a shoe that showed resistance to gravity. What a man!” reads Tito Jackson’s comment. Latoya’s comment reads, “You’ve done your work here, Michael. You’ve entertained us for decades and there’s nothing else that you can prove or accomplish here on earth. Mike. I love you deeply (sic) and I can’t wait to see you perform again. Keep the magic going!!!”
The centerfold in Staples is a collage of Jackson with celebs, including past presidents Bush, Clinton, Reagan. There are a lot of shots of Jackson with Elizabeth Taylor.
See photos from Tuesday’s memorial at the Staples Center.
9:25 a.m.: Smokey Robinson, in a gray suit, is up front talking to security.
9:29 a.m.: Spike Lee talking with Smokey Robinson in front of the stage. A forlorn Queen Latifah is draped in a shawl approaching the stage.
9:34 a.m.: The entire Kardashian family arrives. Kim tells Us: “It’s just really important to be here to support the Jackson family. My family and I have known them for years, so it’s really special to be here for them.”
9:38 a.m.: Larry King and his wife, both in all black and walking arm-in-arm, are escorted inside Staples Center.
9:40 a.m.: Jesse Jackson arrives in an Escalade with a group of people.
Look back at photos of Michael Jackson through the years.
9:44 a.m.: Louis Farrakhan arrives with an entourage of 15.
9:45 a.m.: As Elizabeth Berkley arrives, Diff’rent Strokes star Todd Bridges tells Us: “I knew him – that’s why it’s special to be here. He was the greatest superstar, and I knew him every since I was a little kid, for many, many years, you know? I’m here to honor him.”
9:45 a.m.: Jackson’s hearse arrives at Staples Center
9:52 a.m.: “Ladies and gentlemen, please take your seats,” an announcer says as the Staples Center goes silent. “The service will begin very very shortly.” Meanwhile, the outside of Staples Center has cleared.
Inside, the family floor section is less than half-full. Most of the guests are in traditional funeral wear, not crazy fan costumes. Surprisingly, many in family section are wearing all white.
Revisit the singer’s most unforgettable moments.
9:56 a.m.: Rev. Al Sharpton is deep in conversation with John Mayer, whom he is seated next to, and director Tyler Perry.
9:58 a.m.: Barbara Walters is chatting with Magic Johnson. Mike Tyson is present.
10:00 a.m.: Nicky Hilton is seated with her mother and father. “Michael was a good family friend,” she tells Us. “This is a part of history.”
10:01 a.m.: Dionne Warwick is mingling with Kobe Bryant.
10:12 a.m.: Smokey Robinson addresses the crowd; he reads statements from Diana Ross and Nelson Mandela. Ross’ statement reads: “Thank you, Katherine and Joe for sharing your son with the world. I share my love and condolences with the Jackson family.”
10:16 a.m.: Usher arrives late, wearing a yellow rose. He kisses Brooke Shields on the cheek before taking his seat.
10:17: John Mayer and Brooke Shields briefly chat. She’s sitting right in front of him.
10:19 a.m.: Corey Feldman enters dressed as Michael Jackson. He wipes tears from under his sunglasses.
Check out how Jackson’s look has changed over the years.
10:20 a.m.: Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson exchange greetings.
10:20: Diddy and Jennifer Hudson take their seats.
10:21: The Jackson family enters and receives a standing ovation.
10:33 a.m.: As a church choir sings “We Are Going to See the King,” Jackson’s red rose-covered casket is brought inside and set on the stage. The crowd cheers and gives a standing ovation. His brothers serve as pallbearers and wear sparkly silver gloves.
10:34 a.m.: Spike Lee takes photos with his digital camera.
10:35 a.m.: Chris Tucker enters as the choir is singing.
10:37 a.m.: Pastor Smith delivers a service. “Our hearts are heavy today because…he’s gone far too soon,” he says.
10:39 a.m.: Mariah Carey, in a black gown by Jenny Packham, sings the Jackson 5 hit “I’ll Be There.” She is joined by Trey Lorenz. Images of Jackson 5 flash on the screen behind them.
10:44 a.m. Queen Latifah says, “Somehow, when Michael Jackson sang, when he danced, you never felt distance. You felt like you were right there…I loved him all my life… Michael was the biggest star on earth.” She then quoted Maya Angelou.
See photos of Michael Jackson with his children.
10:50 a.m.: Lionel Richie sings “Jesus Is Loved”
11:01 a.m.: Motown Founder Berry Gordy speaks: “Thank you for the joy. Thank you for the heart. You will live in my heart forever.”
11:04 a.m.: A montage of Jackson’s music videos plays as the crowd cheers. The arena is dark; only Jackson’s coffin is lit up.
11:07 a.m.: Stevie Wonder says, “This is a moment that I wish I didn’t live to see coming. But as much as I can say that we mean it, I do know that God is good…Michael, I love you, and I’ve told you that many times.” He performed “Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer.”
11:13 a.m.: Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson take the stage. “Because he gave so much to so many for us, Michael Jackson remains with us forever,” Bryant says.
Johnson recalled appearing in Jackson’s video for “Remember the Times.” He went to Jackson’s house to discuss ideas. “We had such a good time sitting on the floor eating Kentucky Fried Chicken,” he said.
Johnson also brought up Jackson’s children: Prince Michael, 12, Paris, 11 and Blanket, 7, who are under the temporary custody of Katherine.
“Those three children will have the most incredible grandmother that God has put on this earth to take care of them. Michael’s three children will have incredible uncles and aunts to take care of them as well…and cousins!”
11:20 a.m.: A pregnant Jennifer Hudson sings “Will You Be There.”
11:26 a.m.: Al Sharpton discusses the Jackson’s upbringing in Gary, Indiana and eulogizes Jackson.
11:34 a.m.: John Mayer performs “Human Nature” as the crowd claps along. After, he hugs Jackson’s brothers.
11:39 a.m.: Brooke Shields fights back tears. “Michael was one of a kind…Michael always knew he could count on me to be his date. Michael tried in vain one night to unsuccessfully teach me the Moonwalk. Michael loved to laugh. MJ’s laugh was the sweetest and purest laugh. His sense of humor was delightful, and he was very mischievous.” She stopped for an extra moment to look at Jackson’s casket on stage before returning to her seat in row 7.
Find out what else Shields had to say about her friend.
11:48 p.m.: Jermaine Jackson performs Charlie Chaplin’s “Smile,” which is Michael’s favorite song, Shields says at the service. After, he took his flower boutonniere off his lapel, and tossed it on the coffin.
11:51 a.m.: Bernice King and Martin Luther King III speak. After quoting his father, King III said: “Michael Jackson was truly the best.” Bernice recalled when Michael called their ailing mother from the Middle East to let her know he was praying for her.
11:59 a.m.: Texas congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee of the congressional black caucus speaks. “We are the world, and we are better because Michael Joseph Jackson lived…I salute you.”
12:07 p.m.: Usher places his hand on Jackson’s casket while singing “Gone Too Soon.” Photos of Jackson as a child flash on the screen behind him. After, he hugged Jackson’s brothers and broke into sobs. He then kneeled down to speak to Katherine and Joe before returning to his seat.
12:13 p.m. Britain’s Got Talent star Shaheen Jafargholi sings “Who’s Lovin’ You” and says, “I love Michael Jackson. I just want to thank him so much for blessing me and every single individual on this earth.”
12:23 p.m.: Kenny Ortega, who was directing Jackson’s comeback tour, calls Jackson a “living legacy” before introducing a group to sing “We Are the World.” Jackson’s daughter Paris sings. Lionel Richie and Jennifer Hudson are also on stage.
Children and additional celebs then take the stage to sing “Heal the World.” Blanket stands in front of Janet Jackson. Paris — who is standing in front of LaToya Jackson — kisses Blanket’s hands. Paris, Prince and Blanket sing along.
12:31 p.m.: Prince has his arm around Paris, who is holding Blanket.
Jermaine and Marlon speak. Paris puts a tissue in her handbag, and leans on Janet.
Paris then asks for the microphone. “I just wanted to say…ever since I was born, daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine…and I just wanted to say I love him so much,” she says through sobs. Janet and several other family members lead her off the stage, which goes dark.
VIDEO: WATCH PARIS’ TEARFUL TRIBUTE TO HER FATHER.
12:41 p.m.: Michael’s casket is rolled out by family members as “Man in the Mirror” plays.
12:48 p.m.: Jackson family friend Pastor Lucius Smith reads a benediction and the memorial draws to a close.
[Credit: Us Weekly]