Friends, family, and fans gathered at the Staples Center in downtown Los Angeles to celebrate the life of Michael Jackson.
Mariah Carey re-teamed with Trey Lorenz for a rousing duet of the Jackson 5 classic “I’ll Be There.” The duo originally performed the song in 1992 during Mariah’s award-winning “MTV Unplugged” appearance.
Lionel Richie serenaded the packed house with a gospel-infused number.
The siblings also donned sparkly gloves in honor of their brother, as well as Versace attire. The Italian designer was one of Michael’s favorites.
When Brooke took the stage, she shared many heartfelt memories of her time spent with Michael. “Michael tried in vain one night to unsuccessfully teach me the Moonwalk. His sense of humor was delightful, and he was very mischievous.”
Queen Latifah recited a Maya Angelou poem called “We Had Him” following Mariah’s ode to MJ.
Usher flipped through the program for Jackson’s memorial service. “I would not be the artist, performer, and philanthropist I am today without the influence of Michael,” said the R&B star. “I have great admiration and respect for him, and I’m so thankful I had the opportunity to meet and perform with such a great entertainer, who in so many ways transcended the culture.”
Later, Hudson gave a standout performance of Jackson’s hit “Will You Be There,” from “Free Willy.”
As the memorial began to wind down, “Britain’s Got Talent” star Shaheen Jafargholi impressed with his take on “Who’s Lovin’ You.”
Brooke Shields instantly became friends with Michael when she first met him at the age of 13, while Magic Johnson was featured in Jackson’s music video “Remember the Time.”
Stevie Wonder professed his love for the King of Pop before singing a medley of “Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer” and “They Won’t Go When I Go.”
John Mayer treated the crowd to an instrumental version of “Human Nature.” Upon learning of Michael’s passing, Mayer said, “I think we’ll mourn his loss as well as the loss of ourselves as children listening to Thriller on the record player.”
Wesley Snipes also showed up to pay his respects. The actor appeared in Michael’s 1987 “Bad” video.
Chris Brown, who has been compared to a young MJ thanks to his style, singing, and dance moves, was also in attendance. “Michael will be deeply missed, but never forgotten,” noted Brown. “He’s the greatest … the best ever.”
Corey Feldman paid homage to MJ by donning a military-style jacket and black fedora. The actor befriended the superstar in the ’80s at the heights of their fame.
Talk show titan Larry King escorted his wife, Shawn Southwick, into the arena. Larry will undoubtedly be covering today’s event on his program later this evening.
As the event drew to an end, Michael’s baby sister Janet was seen comforting his daughter, Paris Katherine Jackson, moments before the 11-year-old asked 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.”
No comments yet.