Since Michael Jackson’s death, Los Angeles has been flooded with individuals wishing to get closer to Michael Jackson. His death has been described as having the same emotional impact as the deaths of individuals such as Jerry Garcia, John Lennon, and even Elvis Presley. The outpouring of individuals mourning the pop star is magnified now via the web.
Though a mere 8,750 fans were awarded tickets to Jackson’s memorial service, which will be held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles beginning at 1PM ET/ 10 AM PT the memorial will also be televised on all major networks, shown in 85 theaters, and shown via live webcast. It is estimated that over 250,000 individuals will try to get close to pay their final respects to Jackson.
It has been reported that Stevie Wonder, Mariah Carey, Lionel Richie, Smokey Robinson, John Mayer, Al Sharpton, Jennifer Hudson, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson and Martin Luther King III will be in attendance.
Fans have turned to Twitter, Facebook, and other social networking venues in an attempt to feel closer, to grieve and post homage to the “king of pop.” The Internet has seen an outpouring of love and support from fans worldwide. The Internet has taken what should normally be a private, intimate moment and thrust it into the public eye.
Jackson spent the last few years of his life away from the public, out of the limelight and practically in hiding. Is this public display not lacking in respect? Does this live webcast not prove tasteless?
