Yesterday, pop star Janet Jackson, 45, who was slated to be one of the headliners at her brother’s tribute concert, announced that she will not attend the event.
The Rhythm Nation singer released a statement citing the reason as the upcoming trial of Dr. Conrad Murray, who is charged with involuntary manslaughter for the death of her brother, pop star Michael Jackson.
“Because of the trial, the timing of this tribute to our brother would be too difficult for me," Janet Jackson said in an August 29 statement, released on what would have been Michael’s 53rd birthday.
Siblings Randy and Jermaine Jackson, along with several Michael Jackson fan clubs have also spoken out about the timing of the tribute, saying it is inappropriate with the trial set to open September 27 and likely to last 4 to 6 weeks.
The doctor has pleaded not guilty but, if convicted, could face up to four years in prison.
Jackson’s mother Katherine and sister LaToya have backed the U.K. Michael Forever – The Tribute Concert, which is scheduled in Cardiff, Wales on October 8, with a line-up that includes Christina Aguilera, Smokey Robinson and Cee Lo Green.
American rockers Kiss were removed from the schedule after fans protested that guitarist Gene Simmons had publicly disparaged the pop star in media interviews.