Los Angeles, California–The public memorial for pop-singer Michael Jackson was held at Staples Center in Los Angeles on Tuesday. Thousands of fans lined up outside Staples Center. 1.6 million applied for tickets; only 17,500 were allowed inside. Others watched the live show presented in theatres. The show was broadcast live around the world.
It was a combination memorial service and variety show, part entertainment and part eulogy. A gold coffin was placed front and center. The memorial included performances by many starts including Smokie Robinson and Stevie Wonder. Michael Jackson’s brother Jermaine sang the Charlie Chaplin song “Smiles” which was Michael’s favorite song. Eulogies were delivered by Reverand Al Sharpton and Actress Brook Shields. Basketball player Magic Johnson recalled Michael eating a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken.
Here is a link to In Pictures: Michael Jackson Memorial
The NY Times coverage of the memorial: At Jackson Memorial, Music and Mourning by Times reporter Randall C. Archibold.
