Michael Jackson stops...gets enough
Michael Jackson is dead. The whole world knows by now. After a cardiac arrest in Los Angeles, the King of Pop has departed for wherever Elvis, Marilyn and Diana hang out these days. The exact cause of death is still unknown but most reports suggest a combination of medication and over-exertion while preparing for his comeback concerts. We can, quite literally, blame it on the boogie.
London stands as bereaved as any city. The O2 is suddenly deprived of the biggest set of concerts in history. The rehabilitated Millennium Dome was well on its way to a place in the pantheon of great rock venues. With the cancellation of 50 shows, the giant tent could lay dormant for many months, disturbed only by the sound of pacing security guards and barking Alsatians. AEG Live, the US company which arranged the concerts, now faces a liability of £300 million, and over 1 million customers must now be refunded in a process predicted to be 'messy and expensive'. The official word from the O2: "At this moment our thoughts are with Michael's children, family and friends. We will announce ticketing information in due course".
And the word on the street? One journalist, walking through the West End last night, caught a few snapshots of reaction. Meanwhile, Twitter is going crazy with everything from the inevitable sick jokes to observations about how few people can actually spell 'Michael'. Today, a mass moonwalk is being organised for 6pm at Liverpool Street station. We'll bring you any other news about local happenings to commemorate Jackson. Given the huge fanbase and empty Dome, we suspect it won't be long before an official tribute concert is arranged. Where's Elton John?
