Is this the real Jacko?
SCANDALOUS and distressing, this documentary has already been much talked about – disturbing accusations of sexual abuse by one of the biggest stars on the planet.
The four-hour film, screened tonight and tomorrow, is a tough watch as it investigates the alleged experiences of two young boys who were both befriended by Michael Jackson.
James ‘Jimmy’ Safechuck was just 10 years old and Wade Robson was seven when the pop star, who died aged 50 in 2009, invited them and their families into his world.
Jimmy met Jackson when he was cast in a Pepsi commercial with the singer, while Wade won a shopping mall dance contest when he was just five, the prize being tickets to a concert and a meet and greet.
Wade, 36, says of Jackson: “He was one of the kindest, most gentle, loving, caring people I knew.
“He helped me tremendously, he helped me with my career, he helped me with my creativity. And he also sexually abused me for seven years.”
There are stomach-churning interviews here with both Wade and Jimmy, but also with their mothers, wives and siblings as they all talk about the lure of fame and their feelings as the abuse allegations were revealed.
The men are speaking out now after years of therapy and Wade claims that Jackson warned they would both “go to jail for the rest of our lives” if they told anyone.
It’s for you to make up your minds, but this may well see viewers turning off Jackson’s music in their droves.