Michael Jackson's Mother Sues Concert Promoter

Over a year after the death of pop superstar Michael Jackson, scrutiny is again falling upon the circumstances of his death. Jackson’s mother, Katherine Jackson, is suing his concert promoter at the time, AEG, in a wrongful death lawsuit.

Jackson accuses AEG of "putting its desire for massive profits" over its responsibility for her son’s health. Jackson’s death has already been ruled a homicide by the Los Angeles Coroner’s Office. AEG is blamed for putting Jackson through a grueling rehearsal schedule for his scheduled 50 tours without regard for his well being and for failing to provide adequate medical attention. Jackson was receiving medical care from Dr. Conrad Murray, who has been charged with a count of involuntary manslaughter in a separate criminal suit. He is also being sued by Jackson’s father, Joe, for wrongful death. "AEG had legal duties to Michael Jackson to treat him safely and to not put him in harm’s way," the lawsuit states. 

Kenny Ortega, director of the "This Is It" concert series, is also named as a defendant in the case. The Jacksons additionally seek reparation for emotional damages caused to Michael Jackson’s son, Prince Michael. The lawsuit further claims that AEG forced Jackson to rehearse, threatening that "if they called off the tour, there would be lawsuits and Jackson’s career would be over." 

The lawsuit seeks over $75,000 in damages. "The purpose of this lawsuit is to prove to the world the truth about what happened to Michael Jackson, once and for all," Jackson’s lawyer said. –AMY LEE