Jacko’s hideaway to go on sale
NEVERLAND, the ranch where Michael Jackson once lived in a fantasy world with Bubbles the chimpanzee, fairground rides and a sweet shop, has been put up for sale.
His relatives said they hoped the new owners would respect the property’s unique history.
The sprawling 1 133ha ranch, 210km north of Los Angeles, has been deserted for years. It is owned by private investment firm Colony Capital, which bought it in 2008 for $23.5-million (R252-million at current rates) when the King of Pop was heavily in debt.
Thomas Barrack jnr of Colony Capital said: “We’ve been custodians of an irreplaceable estate and are proud to say we’ve restored it to the elegance Michael envisioned. We are considering putting it up for sale.”
Barrack said he wanted it to stay as “an enduring tribute to Michael Jackson”.
The Jackson family expressed disappointment at the planned sale.
A spokesman for the singer’s estate said: “We are saddened at the prospect of the sale of Neverland which, under the agreement negotiated during Michael’s lifetime, Colony has the right to sell. The estate will maintain Michael’s family home in Encino, including its iconic recording studio.
“We hope and trust that the new owners of Neverland will respect the special nature of this wonderful property. Michael’s memory lives on in the hearts of his fans worldwide.”
Jackson bought the ranch in 1988, and brought in elephants and exotic snakes — and a private railway.
He moved out in 2005 after being acquitted of sexual molestation charges.
Neverland could fetch as much as $50-million. — © The