The MJCast - A Michael Jackson Podcast

Vincent Paterson returns to The MJCast, joining Elise Capron and Q for a listener Q&A. Paterson, who first appeared on the show in 2017 (on #TheMJCast064), is an iconic director and choreographer whose career has spanned across film, theater, pop music tours, TV, commercials, and much more. Within the MJ fan community he is, of course, best known for his work with the King of Pop. With Michael Jackson, he played a central role in creating some of the most memorable moments in pop culture history, from the short films for “Beat It” and “Thriller”, where he was a lead dancer and also assistant choreographer, to working on the short films for “The Way You Make Me Feel”, “Speed Demon”, “Dirty Diana” and “Smooth Criminal”, (for which he developed Michael’s unforgettable “lean” move), and, later, the “Black Or White” and “Blood on the Dance Floor” films. He also worked on the live performance side, directing the Bad World Tour, the 1988 Grammys performance, the MTV 10th Anniversary performance, the Super Bowl, and more.

Paterson’s resume extends far beyond Michael Jackson as well. He has worked closely with Madonna, George Harrison, Van Halen, Ringo Starr, Paul McCartney, Diana Ross, Lionel Ritchie, Whitney Houston, and many more. His choreography in major motion pictures can be seen in work such as “Evita”, “The Birdcage”, “Hook”, and “Dancer in the Dark”, just to name a few.

In 2022, Paterson published his memoir, “Icons and Instincts: Choreographing and Directing Entertainment’s Biggest Stars”, which details his fascinating journey through dance, stage, screen, and beyond.

Paterson is widely recognized as one of America’s greatest choreographers, and the team feels so privileged to have had him on the show back in Season Three for a career-spanning interview, and now, to have him return for a focused discussion around questions sent in from fans.

The MJCast thanks everyone who contributed questions — we wish we could have included each and every submission in our chat! (Note: The hosts had to consolidate some questions for the sake of the flow of the conversation. Also, at the time of recording, Vincent had not yet seen the biopic, so those questions could not be addressed. Thank you for understanding.)

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Questions:
1) Jacksongirl2300(Instagram): Hi, Vincent. First, it was really good to meet you at the “This Is Thriller” event in October 2024. I would love to ask the five W’s on your introduction to Michael
2) Charlie Carter(Facebook): During the filming for the Beat It music video, how much interaction did you have with the “gang” members and how would you describe the atmosphere between them? Were there any moments where you thought it might kick off?
3) MJsBADdie(X): Why didn’t the dancer on the left in the Beat It video know the choreography?
4) Dane Thomson(X): How did they come to choose the arrangement of the zombies during the Thriller dance? Particularly the two ladies to Michael’s left and right. They stand out really well. Do you know the intention behind it if there was one?
5) Cindy Messina (Instagram): Beside the zombie teeth from Thriller you showed us at This is Thriller, did you keep anything else from the set of any of the other projects you were part of?
6) Paul Dwyer (Facebook): I’ve heard conflicting stories around the “LEAN” in the smooth criminal video. Were wires & harnesses used? Or was it those patented shoes? I presume you & MJ worked on the choreography for an amount of time before the shoot. How did your choreography inline with that iconic move? When was that move conceived?
7) MJsBADdie(X): What parts of the Smooth Criminal short film did Michael conceptualize? Was the spin on the table Michael freestyling or movie magic? What parts of the choreography did Michael tweak to fit his movements?
8) Connor Jake Elder(Instagram): Hi Vincent, I’m a huge fan of your work. Your collaborations with Michael inspired me to start dancing at five years old, and I haven’t stopped since. I’d love to ask: In Smooth Criminal, there’s that incredible moment where the music stops, the cat walks across the piano, Michael lets out the “oooh,” and the performance builds into the final “Annie, Are You Okay?” crescendo. It feels intensely emotional and almost primal. Did Michael ever explain what he was trying to express through that sequence?
9) Porter Wolff (Instagram): Michael Jackson’s original concept for Smooth Criminal was a western—did he ever discuss that idea with you?
10) Bucatini6 (Instagram): I’ve seen photos of Robert DeNiro visiting the set of Smooth Criminal and I’ve read that perhaps Fred Astaire all visited? Undoubtedly MJ’s outfit was a homage to Astaire- Do you have recollection of these visits? Thank you.
11) Etebeye (Instagram): Hi, Vincent. Your book is a must-read for everyone in performing arts! Your collaborations with Michael are a masterclass in creativity. The MTV10 Will You Be There performance I feel doesn’t get enough props when it’s one of the most artistic and intricate choreographies Michael’s ever done. Could you please walk us through how that piece was developed?
12) Gratian Dimech (X): I’d love to know more about the BOTDF shoot. Such a simple but amazing piece. What was it like directing it with Michael?
13) Leah Thompson (Facebook): Can you please tell us any treasured memories from the blood on the dance floor choreography and video?
14) Luma (X):How was the process of Michael learning salsa to the Blood on the dance floor video?
15) D. | magicmikelegacy (X): In blood on the dance floor Michael dances salsa. Is there any other genre of dance that Michael could do besides his own pop/hip hop style that we mostly saw him do.
16) Porter Wolff (Instagram):Can you talk about the 8mm version of the Blood on the Dance Floor video?
17) Eddie Santos (email): Did you guys end up doing two versions of the blood on the dance floor short film?
18) Lisa Croft (X): Seeing how hard Jaafar physically trained for the role, what was Michael’s warm up/workout routine to stay fit to dance? Curious, since there is no footage of Michael ever exercising or working out.
19) Rini (X):What was your and Michael’s process for creating the main choreography? Was it a lot of freestyling and seeing what stuck?
20) Sydney Caree (X):MJ would often take a routine home and rehearse it before the next rehearsal, is there any moment(s) where he changed something in the choreo or added something to it after practicing?
21) Yoann Bomal (X):Are the movements in the choreographies meant to tell a story?
22) MJsBADdie (X/Twitter): What choreography was the most fun to perform?
23) Carol (X):What’s his fave MJ vid he choreographed? Are there any MJ vids he wish he could’ve choreographed, but didn’t get the chance to?
24) Etebeye (Instagram): Why did Michael prefer to dance in loafers even at rehearsals and didn’t those hurt after hours of dancing? And, in the 90s, who paid better, Michael Jackson, Inc. or Madonna, Inc.?
25) Porter Wolff (Instagram): Were there any music video concepts that were planned but never came to fruition?
26) Monique Kinnest (Instagram):If he could choreograph any MJ song, what would it be?
27) Porter Wolff (Instagram): If you had the chance to direct a short film for a song that never received one, which song would you choose, and what direction would you take? (I personally believe Dangerous would have made a great “sequel” in theme to Smooth Criminal, the choreography from the live performances are amazing)
28) Lisa Croft (X): What does he think of the recent Bob Fosse – Michael Jackson discourse on Twitter?
29) Yoann Bomal (X):Did Michael like Bob Fosse’s films beyond just the dancing? Because they’re sometimes quite harsh and very sexual.
30) Gareth Morton (Facebook): What is your opinion of the Beat It gang scene in the Michael biopic?
31) Yoann Bomal (X):What does he think about the “Beat It” sequence from the Biopic, what’s real & what’s not?
32) MJsBADdie (X/Twitter): How was it seeing Jaafar as Michael when you were on set?
33) Sydney Caree (X):I’m assuming you have seen the biopic (if not why), what rating would you give it and which scene was your favorite?
34)Karina Polina-Saliba (Instagram): I have seen the BTS footage for Michael and I saw you actually had the chance to see the making of the concert scenes with Jafaar. You were there with other past collaborators like Jennifer Batten, Greg P, Jonathan the drummer and others. How did it feel like for you seeing familiar faces again and seeing the recreation of those iconic concert moments? Did you also provide any input at all? Or were you just invited out of courtesy? 🙂 Lastly did you watch the movie and what did you think of it?
35) Cindy Messina (Instagram): Were you involved as a consultant for the Michael biopic? Have you received an apology from the Estate or anyone from the Jackson family regarding the premier?
36) Simon Barré-Brisebois (Threads):Have you ever gotten any involvement in the making of the Michael Jackson biopic? Were you interviewed by the director and his crew and did you meet the actor who portrayed you? If yes, what did you speak about?
37) Anne (X):Bjork famously wore a dress with MJ on it to the Golden Globes and MJ asked Bjork a question during a web chat. It seems there was a mutual appreciation. Did Bjork ever mention MJ while you did Dancer in the dark? Also do you think there were similarities between them as artists?
38) Deidre Jericho (Instagram): My questions for Vincent are: 1. You worked with Michael across multiple creative eras, but I’m curious about the quieter moments between the spectacle. Was there ever a moment where you really saw the weight he was carrying as a person, not just Michael Jackson the icon? AND 2. And now that a new generation is rediscovering him through clips, memes, biopics, and social media fragments, what do you think people still fundamentally misunderstand about who he was?
39) Porter Wolff (Instagram): What are your thoughts on the estate and how it has managed his legacy since his passing? Projects you liked, disliked? What would you like to see them do?
40) Camilla Mæle Ruud (X): What do you wish the world knew about Michael that would give them a better understanding of who he was?
41) Maksim_mikivic (Instagram):  What is your favorite memory or what do you miss the most?
42) Mammo Jess (Facebook):What is your most treasured memory with Michael?
43) Samantha Gardiner (email): if you could go back and re live one moment from working with Michael what would it be and why?
44) Jacksongirl2300(Instagram): What are you up to nowadays?

Additional Links
• TheMJCast Episode 64: Vincent Paterson Special, our deep-dive interview with Vincent.
• Vincent’s website.
• Purchase link for Vincent’s memoir, “Icons and Instincts: Choreographing and Directing Entertainment’s Biggest Stars”.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD.

J. Randy Taraborrelli, the man who was sat right behind Michael Jackson in court as the verdicts came in, joins host Charles Thomson for the MJCast’s annual Vindication Day Special, recognizing the 21st anniversary of Jackson’s resounding 2005 acquittal.

Randy is the author of more than 20 books, most of which have become New York Times bestsellers, including his landmark Michael Jackson biography, The Magic and the Madness. After years of silence, he has granted The MJCast what he says will be his first and last Michael Jackson podcast interview.

He first met Michael in Philadelphia in 1970 (thanks to an invitation from Diana Ross) and last spoke to him in the years after the trial.

In this discussion, Randy tells Charles about getting to know Michael, writing his book, navigating the allegations in his dual role as a friend and a reporter, and almost coming to blows with Evan Chandler.

He recounts covering the trial, explains how the Cascio family drove him out of the Michael Jackson business, and tells us why he broke cover to participate in the controversial new Netflix series about the trial.

This emotional conversation is a true scoop for the MJCast, as Randy tells us stories he has never told publicly before, then vows never to give such an interview again.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Additional Links
• J. Randy Taraborrelli’s official website.
• Taraborrelli’s book on MJ, Michael Jackson: The Magic, The Madness, The Whole Story.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and occasional charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Bluesky
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• X
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling.

Scorpeze, Matthew Allen, Nicole Starling, and Rochelle Jones join host Shawn Shackelford for a roundtable discussion of the ‘Michael’ biopic as viewed through the Black cultural perspective, sparked by the film’s major success and the return of global Michaelmania. The panel explores Michael Jackson’s legacy through race, media, celebrity, and cultural memory, tracing his journey from the Jackson 5 and the Chitlin’ Circuit to Off the Wall, Thriller, and worldwide superstardom. They also examine shifting media narratives, from tabloid culture and public scrutiny to modern reassessments, while reflecting on James Baldwin’s enduring observations about Michael, America, and Black cultural identity. Together, the conversation blends personal insight and cultural analysis to reconsider Michael Jackson’s lasting impact and evolving legacy.

This episode was edited by Simon Wilkie.

Participants
• Shawn Shackelford
• Scorpeze
• Nicole Starling
• Matthew Allen
• Rochelle Jones

Additional Links
• Here Be Dragons: James Baldwin’s Critique of the American Ideal of Manhood
• “Remember the Time”: Michael Jackson and the Chitlin’ Circuit by Mark Anthony Neal
• Michael Jackson and Prince appearance at James Brown 1983
• Truth and Soul Podcast Ep.3 “Beige Music”
• Truth and Soul Podcast Ep.4 “Beige Music-The Finale”

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Bluesky
• Facebook
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• X
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep livin’ off the wall.

Filmmakers Adam Green, Marcos Cabota, Jin Chohan, and Paul Black join host Charlie Thomson for a continuation of The MJCast’s “Michael” biopic deep-dive discussion series, this time focused on the perspective from those in the film industry. They hone in on details around editing and scene selection, and considerations (from a top-down view) about audience, approach, and production, as well as discussing whether the film truly humanizes Michael Jackson, and what a sequel – if it happens – might look like. Ultimately, the team casts new light on how to think about the film, combined with their personal insights as long-time mega fans of the King of Pop.

This episode was edited by Paul Black.

Participants
• Charlie Thomson
• Adam Green
• Jin Chohan
• Marcos Cabota
• Paul Black

Additional Links
• Adam Green’s podcast, The Movie Crypt.
• Marcos Cabota’s documentary (not yet widely available), Sonic Fantasy.
• Jin Chohan’s in-progress documentary, Trial By Media: The Michael Jackson Story

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Bluesky
• Facebook
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• X
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• YouTube

If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling.

Shawn Shackelford leads the entire MJCast crew, including Elise Capron, Charlie Thomson, Charlie Carter, and newest member, Simon Wilkie, in a deep-dive discussion about the long-awaited “Michael” biopic, which hit theaters this past week.

“Michael” marks a major moment for MJ fans after years of anticipation—and comes with a surge of excitement which has built in the months and weeks leading up to its release. In the first 48 hours of officially hitting theaters, it blew up even the most optimistic projections, taking in around $100 million globally in a single day. By the end of opening weekend, it made well over $200 million globally (opening in 80 countries worldwide), and could officially claim the title of the biggest opening everfor any musical biopic.

Even though the film has faced a wave of negative reviews and press coverage from mainstream sources, audiences are showing up in large numbers, and with great enthusiasm. Critics haven’t exactly embraced the film, but one thing that keeps coming up is Jaafar Jackson’s performance as Michael Jackson. In this roundtable discussion, the team breaks down his performance, along with everything else the film gets right… and where it may fall short. Without a doubt, 2026 is the year of “Michael”.

This episode was edited by Simon Wilkie.

Participants
• Shawn Shackelford
• Elise Capron
• Charlie Thomson
• Charlie Carter
• Simon Wilkie

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Bluesky
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep livin’ off the wall.

Charles Thomson, Shawn Shackelford, and Charlie Carter join forces for the first regular episode of Season 12, catching up on all the latest news in the world of Michael Jackson and the Jackson family. They discuss the very sad passings of Toyia Jackson, Bryan Loren and Rev. Jesse Jackson, as well as updates on Heal LA events this summer, developments regarding the Cascio vs. MJ Estate Case, a new Channel 4 Trial series, a TMZ MJ documentary, more MJ-related books, and a correction of a previously-released MJ short film restoration. Plus, Damien Shields joins in for a chat regarding the recent, major leak of Michael Jackson music.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Discussion Topics
• Bryan Loren has died.
• Dr. Toyia Jackson has died, after a battle with cancer.
• Rev. Jesse Jackson has died.
• “King of Popcorn” events return to Hayvenhurst this summer.
• Sexyy Red’s X-Rated “Beat It” Flip Goes Viral, and Estate is not pleased.
• Judge Signals Arbitration in Cascio vs. MJ Estate Case.
• Channel 4 releases “Michael Jackson: The Trial” series.
• Michael Jackson appears in Epstein Files photos, and Macaulay Culkin video is debunked as fake.
• TMZ releases new documentary: ‘Michael Jackson: 30 Fatal Seconds’.
• “Black or White” short film is restored to its original vision, now including the full panther dance sequence.
• Joe Vogel releases a new book, Black or White: Inside Michael Jackson’s Most Controversial Film.
• Teddy Riley releases his memoir, Remember the Times.
• Massive Michael Jackson music leak.

Finds of the Week
• Charles Thomson – Nine Sixteenths, a Janet Jackson play, is touring the UK.
• Charlie Carter – Moonwalkeris coming to Netflix.
• Shawn Shackelford – Jael Rucker’s MJ articles in Decked Out Magazine.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Bluesky
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• X
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep livin’ off the wall.

Bobby Huntley, Hannah Savage, and first-time guest Stepfan Holley join host Shawn Shackelford to kick off Season 12 of The MJCast, following the release of the full trailer for the highly anticipated Michaelbiopic, set to hit theaters worldwide on April 24, 2026.

In this in-depth roundtable discussion, the team unpacks one of the most talked-about moments in the Michael Jackson community in years. The trailer—like the teaser released in November—quickly shattered viewership records, making it a record-breaking launch for a music biopic and the largest trailer debut in Lionsgate studio history, igniting passionate reactions across the internet.

In this episode, the panel slows the conversation down, moving beyond knee-jerk reactions to thoughtfully examine what the trailer shows, what it withholds, and the expectations it sets for how Michael Jackson’s story may be told on the big screen. Topics include initial emotional responses, visual effects and digital polish, pacing and imagery, the portrayal of key figures, speculation about narrative choices, and broader questions surrounding audience, authenticity, and legacy. Along the way, there are plenty of strong opinions, sharp observations, and moments of genuine reflection.

Whether you’re exhilarated, cautious, or somewhere in between, one thing is clear: 2026 is shaping up to be the Year of Michael—and this conversation is just the beginning.

This episode was edited by Simon Wilkie.

Participants
• Bobby Huntley
• Hannah Savage
• Stepfan Holley
• Shawn Shackelford

Additional Links
• Official trailer on YouTube.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and occasional charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Bluesky
• Facebook
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• X
• Threads
• YouTube

If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep livin’ off the wall.

Taj Jackson joins Shawn Shackelford, Charles Thomson, and Charlie Carter to celebrate the holidays and reflect on this past year… Welcome to The MJCast’s 11th annual Christmas special!

The gang discusses the year that was on Season 11 of The MJCast, as well as all the recent news in the world of Michael Jackson and the Jackson family, including Jermaine Jackson’s announcement of a “Jackson Museum”, the passing of guitarist and composer Phil Upchurch, MJ-related legal twists and turns for artist Brett-Livingstone Strong, Michael Jackson inspiration appearing in major films and TV shows, reactions to the one-and-only Jamon Bull stepping down from The MJCast, an exciting vinyl release from the Michael Jackson Estate, and much more. Plus, the team looks ahead to Season 12, and has fun with the annual bloopers reel.

Special thanks to Taj Jackson for being a part of our annual Christmas Special for many years. Here’s to many more!

And, huge thanks to all of our listeners and MJFam around the world. We could not do this without you. Wishing you a happy 2026 to come! (Elise sends her love to all listeners and MJ friends, as well. She had a scheduling issue and could not participate in this episode.)

This episode was edited by Simon Wilkie.

Discussion Topics
• The year that was…
• Charlie Thomson is now the longest serving member of the team!
• Unreleased video from the preparations for the HBO special “One Night Only”
• Jermaine Jackson Announces Plans for a ‘Jackson Museum’ in Monaco
• Phil Upchurch, Guitarist and Composer for Michael Jackson, Dies
• Court Says Michael Jackson Copyrights Can Be Sold to Pay Artist’s Debts
• “Cry” celebrated with a “blurry, blocky, visibly degraded version of the short film” on official Michael Jackson channels
• Michael Jackson’s ‘Smooth Criminal’ Inspired Key Scene in the Wicked Film
• “Rockin’ Robin” Lands in Stranger Things Season 5
• Bruno Mars Channels Michael Jackson
• Reactions to Jamon Bull stepping down from The MJCast (we love you, Jamon!)
• NUMBER ONES will be released on vinyl
• Season 11 Blooper Reel
• Looking back, and looking forward…

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep livin’ off the wall.

Destiny,released in 1978, marked a seismic shift for The Jacksons — a bold declaration of creative independence, a spiritual and sonic rebirth, and a pivotal step in the journey that would launch Michael Jackson into superstardom. Having broken away from the constraints of Motown in 1975, the group spent years redefining their sound under Philadelphia International’s Gamble and Huff before finally taking complete control of their music with Destiny, their first self-written and self-produced album.

But was Destiny just a comeback album, or something far more profound?

In this roundtable episode, host Shawn Shackelford is joined by panelists Scorpeze, Samar Habib, and Jay Leggett to explore every corner of this often-overlooked masterpiece. From its gospel-fueled grooves and bold horn arrangements to its raw, personal lyricism and prophetic themes, the panel traces how Destiny not only signaled The Jacksons’ artistic autonomy but served as a critical bridge between the group’s legacy and Michael’s solo evolution.

The team unpacks the cultural and historical context of Destiny’s release, including the brothers’ exit from Motown, their variety show, and Michael’s early creative partnership with his brother, Randy. They dig into the musical inspirations behind the record — from Earth, Wind & Fire to Stevie Wonder — and examine how tracks like “Blame It on the Boogie,” “Push Me Away,” “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)” and “That’s What You Get (For Being Polite)” laid the foundation for the innovation of Off the Wall and beyond.

This in-depth, thought-provoking discussion celebrates an album that didn’t just reintroduce The Jacksons — it redefined them. Revisit the songs, stories, and struggles behind Destiny in a full track-by-track discussion, and consider whether it deserves a much more prominent place in the canon of pop and R&B history.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Participants
• Shawn Shackelford
• Scorpeze
• Samar Habib
• Jay Leggett

Additional Links
• Destiny Era
• New Yorker Magazine article about the Jacksons Leaving Motown, July 1975
• Gregg Cobarr’s Photographic Flashbacks with Michael Jackson, August 16, 1978
• Record Mirror interview with Paul Sexton, October 7, 1978
• The Jacksons’ 10th Anniversary Special in Billboard (Pgs. 47-62), November 18, 1978
• The Jacksons interview with Blues and Soul, February 1979
• Reviewof The Jacksons’ February 23-24, 1979 concerts in London, England at the Rainbow Theatre for the “Destiny World Tour”-Black Echoes- March 3, 1979
• Star Trak Westwood One Interviewwith The Jacksons, May 28, 1979
• LP Promo-Destiny album disc interviews the Jacksons, 1980
• “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)” Demo
• Executive Producer, Bobby Colomby interview
• Michael “Mick” Jackson discusses “Blame it on the Boogie”

Like this episode?
 • If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and occasional charity donations.
 • We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
 • Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Bluesky
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• X
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com.Keep livin’ off the wall.

In this episode, Jamon Bull, co-founder and co-host of The MJCast for eleven seasons, discusses his decision to step back from the show. Innumerable memories have been made, friendships formed, and a record of the King of Pop’s iconic legacy has been captured through Jamon’s tireless work. The show will continue on, in a slightly new form, even in light of this bittersweet news. Jamon: We love you and will miss you.

In his last regular episode, Jamon joins Elise Capron, Charles Thomson, Q, Charlie Carter, and Shawn Shackelford for a massive catch-up on all the latest news in the world of Michael Jackson and the Jackson family. They discuss Mariah Carey’s recent reveal about an unreleased duet with the King of Pop, a possible upcoming album in tribute to Michael Jackson’s Ireland sessions, legal updates around the Cascio Family and Jackson Estate, Paris Jackson’s continuing public alarm-ringing over Estate legal fees, major fan events around the US, Finds of the Week, and more.

This episode was edited by Simon Wilkie.

Discussion Topics
• Rest in peace Roberta Martin. We love you.
• Musician D’Angleo has passed away at age 51.
• Mariah Carey reveals unreleased duet with Michael Jackson.
• The Michael Jackson estate paid $2.5mn to Cascio Family, with private arbitration decision ahead.
• Frank Cascio breaks his silence on the new allegations.
• Paris Jackson continues to raise alarm over estate legal fees.
• Belinda Dileo has gone public over her concerns regarding the biopic.
• This is Thriller happened on Halloween in LA.
• Kingvention happened in NYC.
• London version of “MJ: The Musical” to close before embarking on a national tour.
• “MJ: The Musical” heading to Brisbane before moving on to Perth.
• Jamon has decided to step back from The MJCast.

Finds of the Week
• Jamon Bull – Motown 25 rehearsal snippet
• Q – brainrot fun and Give In To Me appreciation reel
• Shawn – Full soundboard recordings of the “Destiny” (Memphis 11/25/79) and “Triumph” (Chicago 05/09/81) tours. Plus, his great story of meeting Jackie & Marlon Jackson, with an assist from Brandi Jackson. 
• Charlie Carter – MJ Tribute Artist
• Elise Capron – Kpop Demon Hunters and Captain EO unite!

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Q, Charles Thomson, Paul Black, Shawn Shackelford, and Charlie Carter join host Elise Capron to discuss the recently released teaser trailer for the ‘Michael’ biopic, which will hit theaters around the world on April 24, 2026. The just-over-one-minute-long trailer dropped unexpectedly on November 6, 2025, and immediately broke records, racking up 116.2 million views globally within its first 24 hours, making it “the largest 24-hour trailer launch ever in Lionsgate‘s history and the most-viewed trailer for any music biopic or concert movie in motion picture history”, according to Deadline.

In this chat, the team shares their hot takes and comments on everything from the most thrilling moments of the teaser to complaints about factual inaccuracies, and dissect the editing quality, Jaafar Jackson’s look as the King of Pop, make guesses about what we might see in the final film based on this short, but punchy, presentation, and much more.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Participants
• Elise Capron
• Charles Thomson
• Charlie Carter
• Shawn Shackelford
• Q
• Paul Black

Additional Links
• Official teaser trailer on YouTube.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and occasional charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD!

Damien Shields, Dan Villalobos, James Alay, and Jamon Bull join Charles Thomson for a deep dive into the history behind, and making of, the ‘Faking Michael‘ investigative podcast series.

‘Faking Michael’ took the Michael Jackson fan community (and beyond) by storm one year ago, as a bombshell true crime series which tells the full story of the fraudulent tracks–dubbed the ‘Cascio Tracks’–on the posthumous ‘Michael’ album released in 2010. Damien Shields and his team, including The MJCast, have been investigating this case since that time. The podcast series takes the listener through every dramatic detail of the scandal, including Vera Serova’s 2014 lawsuit against Cascio, Porte, their production company, Sony Music and Jackson’s estate, which resulted in the removal of the tracks in 2022.

In this discussion, the guys tell the story behind the story, including how they worked together as a team, behind-the-scenes moments, the experience of researching the story and making the podcast, how the project has been received among fans and in the wider world, and what else is to come in the ‘Faking Michael’ journey.

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull and Charlie Carter.

Additional Links:
• You can learn more at https://www.fakingmichael.com.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and occasional charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Akasha Richmond joins Charles Thomson for a journey into the culinary and travel side of Michael Jackson’s life, as she relays stories from her years working for The King of Pop as his personal and concert tour chef.

Akasha met Michael Jackson in the early 1980s, when she and Mani Niall worked at the Golden Temple, a vegetarian restaurant in Los Angeles. Mani became Jackson’s first personal chef, while Akasha was hired for special dinner parties, including events at Hayvenhurst with guests such as Elizabeth Taylor, Gregory Peck, Sophia Loren, and more. Eventually, Akasha also started stepping in as Jackson’s chef when he traveled, when Mani was not available.

Akasha began traveling the world regularly with Jackson, cooking for him all across Europe, Asia, Australia, and beyond. She worked on both the BAD and the HIStory tours, and her mandate was to always keep The King of Pop healthy, with his favorite Mexican dishes and comfort food – always spicy!

Not only did Akasha develop a deep friendship with Michael Jackson, but she got to see the world, and developed a love of travel, during her years of touring. In this chat, she shares amazing memories, insights into Jackson’s life, and discusses how her experiences eventually led her to found a beloved LA restaurant, Akasha, and also, more recently, to start a food-focused travel company, Travel by Akasha.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Additional Links
• Akasha’s Culver City restaurant.
• Akasha’s travel company.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and occasional charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Jamon Bull, Charles Thomson, and Charlie Carter join forces for a big catch-up on all the latest news in the world of Michael Jackson and the Jackson family. They discuss the major bombshell around Frank Cascio being revealed as the individual allegedly attempting to extort the Jackson Estate, Paris Jackson publicly questioning the Estate’s financial decisions, updates on MJ: The Musical in Australia, 3T’s European tour, Brad Sundberg’s fantastic HIStory 30 roundtable discussion, and Charlie’s exciting adventures in California.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter and Jamon Bull.

Discussion Topics
• Michael Madsen has died.
• Frank Cascio revealed as individual allegedly attempting to extort Estate.
• Paris Jackson has questioned the appropriateness of payouts made by the Estate.
• “MJ: The Musical” is heading to Melbourne in September.
• Brad Sundberg has released a collaborator roundtable for HIStory 30.
• Lil Baby claims there will be a new Michael Jackson feature on his upcoming album.
• 3T have commenced their European tour.
• Teddy Riley is set to release his memoirs, titled “Remember the Times”.
• Charlie’s adventures

Finds of the Week
• Charles Thomson – 1996 BRIT Awards story on Instagram.
• Charlie Carter – On This Day in Michael Jackson History, July 4 and Stories in the Room podcast.
• Jamon – The Bad World Tour’s Pensacola rehearsals.
• Elise – Court TV has posted the entire Dr. Conrad Murray trial online.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Charles Thomson welcomes first-time guest Josephine Zohny to the show for this year’s Vindication Day Special.

Josie is a long-time Michael Jackson fan who became an important witness.

In the early 2000s, she found herself in the same university music program as Michael Jackson’s first accuser, Jordan Chandler. What she witnessed him saying left her in shock – and when Michael found himself under arrest and facing trial months later, she ended up on the defense witness list.

Josie was never called to the stand and remained silent for over a decade – until she was tracked down by journalist Danny Wu, who made her experiences of Jordan Chandler the narrative spine of his hit 2019 documentary, “Square One”.

Her own quote defines the film: “Every allegation is built on the ’93 allegations”.

In the most in-depth interview she has ever given, Josie tells Charles about her fan story, her experiences with Chandler and her life since the Square One premiere.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Additional Links
•The MJCast review of Square One, with commentary on Josephine Zohny.
•#TheMJCast108: “Back to Square One”, an interview with Danny Wu.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and occasional charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Elise Capron and Charles Thomson team up to chat about all the latest news in the world of Michael Jackson and the Jackson family. They discuss developments with the Robson/Safechuck Defense team, the many delays on the Michael Jackson biopic, another possible MJ documentary brewing, a 3T tour, the recent re-release of The Wiz, Kingvention’s return to London, and much more.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Discussion Topics
• Jeff Margolis has passed away.
• Jennifer Keller has stepped down from the defense team in Robson/Safechuck case.
• The Michael Jackson biopic release date most likely been postponed until 2026.
• The Michael Jackson Estate has announced the annual MJ birthday event in Las Vegas, minus any actual details.
• Rabbi Shmuley is featured in a new Michael Jackson documentary.
• BET has released a HD clip of Michael Jackson’s 2003 BET Awards appearance with James Brown.
• 3T are set to tour Europe in July.
• The Wiz is being released in 4K.
• George Wendt has passed away.
• Brad Sundberg has just released an interview with Hayden Rose, an animal trainer who worked very closely with the animals at Neverland Valley Ranch.
• La Toya Jackson is appearing at the Catalina Jazz Club in LA on June 6 and 7.
• Kingvention returned to London.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD!

Jeff Margolis joins Jamon Bull for a powerful, deep-dive interview about Margolis’ incredible career in television, and his work with The King of Pop.

Margolis is one of the most successful live TV event directors of all time, having worked on the Oscars, the Emmys, the Golden Globes, the Screen Actors Guild Awards and the American Music Awards. He has created TV specials with the likes of Cher, Julie Andrews, Dolly Parton, Frank Sinatra, Kenny Rogers and Richard Pryor; made movies with Ringo Starr and Quincy Jones; directed a music video for Whitney Houston. The roster of talent across his many TV projects has also included Ella Fitzgerald, Gladys Knight, Burt Bacharach, Gene Kelly, Smokey Robinson, Elton John, Barry Manilow, Lionel Richie, Prince, and many, many more.

Margolis’ career led him to cross paths with Michael Jackson numerous times. In 1989, he directed Sammy Davis Jr’s “60th Anniversary Special”, where Michael performed a specially written tribute song called “You Were There”. In 1993, Jeff directed the 20th annual American Music Awards, where Michael performed “Dangerous” for the first time, and won the inaugural International Artist Award, which was thereafter given annually in Michael’s name. In 1995, Margolis signed on as the director of Michael’s ill-fated “One Night Only” HBO special, which fell apart after Michael collapsed in rehearsals. Two years later, he directed “Happy Birthday Elizabeth” at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood, where Michael once again performed a specially written song, “Elizabeth, I Love You”.

Michael and Margolis would collaborate again in 2001 for the hastily assembled United We Stand concert, organized within weeks to raise funds for the victims of the 9/11 terror attack in New York. Michael headlined the show, performing “Man in the Mirror” and assembling a glittering line-up for the only time “What More Can I Give” was performed in front of an audience. It would be the last time Michael Jackson ever performed for a stadium audience.

Margolis’ autobiography “We’re Live in 5: My Extraordinary Life in Television” has recently been released, and features many brilliantly told stories, with an entire chapter dedicated to Jeff’s work with Michael Jackson.

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Additional Links
• Jeff Margolis’ website.
• Jeff’s autobiography, We’re Live in 5.
• Damien Shields’ article on “Michael Jackson: One Night Only”.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations. Learn all about the various ways you can support The MJCast through visiting our website.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

In 2019, a bomb exploded in the Michael Jackson world, when British TV director Dan Reed premiered a four-hour TV series about Wade Robson and James Safechuck – two men demanding millions of dollars from Michael Jackson’s posthumous estate as compensation for alleged childhood sexual abuse. A co-production between Britain’s Channel 4 and America’s HBO, the show generated months of scandalous, sensational and extraordinarily biased media coverage, much of it demanding the all-out cancellation of Michael Jackson.

For a while, that looked like a possibility – but ultimately, Jackson weathered the storm. His music streams went up instead of down. A Michael Jackson musical debuted on Broadway, won a string of awards and has become one of the highest grossing shows in New York theatre history. Its London transfer has just been nominated for three prestigious Olivier awards. New versions have now opened in Germany and Sydney. Meanwhile, Lionsgate has invested $150m in the most expensive Hollywood biopic of all time, Michael.

But six years later, Reed has re-emerged with a 49-minute sequel, subtitled Surviving Michael Jackson and focusing on Robson and Safechuck’s ongoing legal efforts to obtain hundreds of millions of dollars from Jackson’s estate. It premiered this week to substantially less fanfare than its predecessor and extremely poor viewing figures.

In this roundtable episode, a panel of experts react to the latest episode of Leaving Neverland and consider what it means for Michael Jackson’s legacy.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Participants
• Charles Thomson – An award-winning crime reporter who has spent years investigating the Michael Jackson allegations, appearing in various books and documentaries.
• Taj Jackson – Michael Jackson’s nephew and the Jackson family’s loudest voice against Leaving Neverland and the allegations it documents.
• Anika Kotecha – A lawyer and co-founder of campaign group MJInnocent – which challenges biased and inaccurate reporting on the allegations against Michael Jackson – who was asked by Dan Reed to appear in Leaving Neverland 2.
• Jenny Winings – A long-time fan who was on the defence witness list for Michael Jackson’s 2005 trial, appeared in the documentary Square One and is actually featured in Leaving Neverland 2.
• Paul Black – A professional filmmaker and editor, who offers expert insight into the construction of the latest episode.

Additional Links
• The “Square One” documentary on YouTube.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Brad Sundberg joins Elise Capron and Paul Black for an episode packed with listener-submitted questions, as well as a discussion around Brad’s exciting upcoming seminar events, including his tour through Australia and New Zealand.

Brad worked with Michael Jackson as one of his engineers and his Technical Director for nearly 18 years, starting with Captain EO in 1985. He worked on the BAD, Dangerous, HIStory, and Blood On The Dance Floor albums, and was also responsible for nearly all the music and video systems installed in every corner of the Neverland Valley Ranch property. For more than a decade, Brad has been running In the Studio with MJ, immersive seminars which take place around the world, and which give fan insights into working with The King of Pop in the studio.

For this conversation, The MJCast gave listeners a chance to submit questions to this key MJ collaborator. Brad addresses topics across the board, from details about MJ’s creative process and time in the studio, to Brad’s thoughts around Michael’s legacy, to how the seminars have evolved over the years, and what he has planned in the future.

The MJCast wants to thank everyone who contributed questions — we wish we could have included each and every submission all in our chat!

Questions
1) Paul Black (Email) – It’s been 8 years since you were last in Australia with your seminars, can you tell us how the sessions have evolved, and what differences people can expect this time around?
2) Samuel French (Twitter) – what keeps you motivated to keep going with the Seminars – they are a huge investment of your time for little financial return? … and will we ever see you and Brad Buxer in London? I will be there like a shot! Blessings to you
3) Julia de Vreede (Facebook) – Can’t wait for this episode! 💕 Brad travels all around the world for “in the studio with MJ”. I’m curious what his experiences are meeting fans from different cultures across the globe. In what way does he experience Michaels positive and humble spirit traveling around the world? 😊.
4) Alexandre (Twitter) – Hi Brad, thank you for your seminars, I love them. From the moment you worked with Bruce, and continued for many years, how did your responsibilities evolve, once you were no longer on coffee duty? Did Bruce like to have control or did you have the opportunity to take on more?
5) Alexandre (Twitter) – Sounds like one of Bruce’s greatest asset was his ears. If when playing back a track, Michael said “hurt me”, would you all be running for cover to protect your ears?
6) Gratian Dimech (Facebook) – Hi Brad, I think Michael’s vocals at the end of Earth Song are the greatest a singer has ever recorded. Were you present for that moment? What in your opinion was the greatest vocal you ever witnessed/ worked on by him? Thanks!
7) Jamon Bull (Bluesky) – How involved was Teddy Riley in the Dangerous sessions? Did you witness Michael and Teddy working in the studio together and crafting tracks?
8) Jamon Bull (Bluesky) – Was there ever a released Michael song during your time, where you got the sense he wasn’t fully happy with the finished product? Famously, Michael is on the record feeling that way about WBSS.
9) Andrew Greene (Facebook) – Brad, Michael was known for pushing boundaries with his work. Can you share a behind-the-scenes story where a last-minute technical challenge forced you to innovate on the fly—and how that unexpected fix ultimately elevated the project you were working on?
10) Louis La Roche (Email) – Hey Brad, having been in the room whilst working on the History album, can you tell us if there’s any stories you have of Jam & Lewis at that time? They seem to be absent from a lot of conversations about the album, despite the fact they worked on the 4 songs ‘Scream’, ‘Tabloid Junkie’, ‘2 Bad’ and ‘History’ (5 if you count ‘Is It Scary’). Love what you do, and thanks for doing a seminar in London back in 2018, it was a delight.
11) ConnorJakeElder (Instagram) – Hi Brad, did you ever get to discuss “TDCAU” with Michael, did he ever discuss his thoughts or opinions when recording the track? P.S I’m hoping he let you know the ad libs near the end of the song. It’s a long debated lyric in the fan community. “don’t you sit back and watch the beating” is the widely accepted phrase he uses.
12) JayKay (Twitter) – Michael is a well known jokester, were there any moments where he played any pranks on you, or did something that made you crack up along with him? Or similarly did you do something to make him laugh uncontrollably? Thank you Brad for keeping his legacy alive.
13) ljp4681 (Instagram) – Michael was known for his mischief making-did he ever play a memorable  prank on you and what was it?
14) etebeye (Instagram) – In one of your videos, Michael was drinking tea from a mug with the spoon still in it. Was there a time he spilled liquid on the board or broke studio equipment? What format did Michael prefer to listen to music on and did he have a soft spot for vinyl records?
15) ChacoWorldMusic (Instagram) – MJ seemed to embody music as natural as breathing. He didn’t need to play instruments but there are contradictory testimonials and credits of him doing it.  Did Brad ever witness MJ playing an instrument? Was the grand piano at Neverland properly maintained in tune? Did he own other musical instruments?
16) ljp4681 (Instagram) – When you were recording Michael’s lead vocals, were you ever overwhelmed that you made a mistake/forgot to do something while recording? Thanks! xxx
17) Alexandre (Twitter) – The second verse of Smooth Criminal is longer in Moonwalker than on the album or any subsequent mixes for the single. Was it part of the original recording, and maybe cut to fit the song on the vinyl, or was it recorded for the movie?
18) DomoBoy92 (Instagram) – Michael had an almost supernatural ability to layer harmonies and create entire arrangements using just his voice. Can you recall a session where he built a song purely from his vocal ideas before instruments were added?
19) Porter_Wolfff(Instagram) – Graham king (producer of the biopic) interviewed people who knew mj to develop the script. Considering they revamped Neverland for the film, did they contact you for any insights about the music systems, the Neverland collection or any other insights you might have?    
20) Gareth Morton (Facebook) – Could you ask Brad to expand on a comment he made recently in a radio interview, where he said that Michael was not aging well and that he didn’t expect Michael to live beyond 50 years of age. I realise the sensitive nature of this question and have no issues with Brads beliefs around this. I was simply intrigued to know more about why he thought this, and does he wonder if he could have done something to intervene in the months before Michael passed.
21) nagyito_alatt_podcast(Instagram) – How is your book coming along and who is your favourite Hungarian podcaster 😛 ? But most importantly, what was it like to work with Engelbert Humperdinck (this is a serious question, seriously).
22) Porter_Wolfff (Instagram) – Can you update us on your book?
23) EnviJordan (Instagram) – Would you ever make a documentary to capture all of the information shared in the “In The Studio” seminars? Using the studio footage and everything else. So fans of future generations can still learn and enjoy?
24) DaneThomson8 (Instagram) – What was it like when an album was finished? What would be the final finishing touch in the studio? Did Michael ever have some kind of celebration at the end or would he retreat and relax?
25) Camila Maele Ruud (Facebook) – Hi Brad. Firstly, thank you for keeping MJs legacy alive, you are incredible. Question, – What do you wish the future generations would learn about Michael, so that they will understand him and what he stood for ? 🙏 
26) Paul Dwyer (Facebook) – I’d love to know if Brad was witness to any of MJ’s humanitarian efforts. Did any sick or u deprived families or children visit the studios or did he accompany MJ on any hospital visits or did MJ ever speak to him about this side of his work? 🏽
27) Hanan Loukili (Twitter) – How do you feel about this consistent obsessive attempt by the media to tarnish MJ as a human being and therefore deminish his legacy?
28) Paul Rizzo (Facebook) – Does it hurt or annoy you when you see MJ tribute artist/impersonators performing songs like Chicago 1945 after the theft/leak?
29) ConnorJakeElder (Instagram) – Did Michael ever discuss his thoughts on Walt Disney with you, I know you both shared a love for Disney. Keen to hear if Michael ever spoke in depth about Walt with you, Brad.
30) SimonPaulWilkie (Instagram) – Could you name one thing while working with Michael in a studio environment that made it different compared to other work environments you’ve experienced?
31) sentrone0 (Twitter) – Why wasn’t Someone Put Your Hand Out on the Dangerous album? Personally think it’s one of the best songs from that era.
32) Emmet Gates (Twitter) – With the benefit of hindsight, which songs do you think didn’t fit thematically on Bad/Dangerous/History and should’ve been excluded?
33) Eddie Santos (Twitter) – Favorite song on history?
34) Jamon Bull (Bluesky) – Michael Jackson and Donald Trump were hanging out during the HIStory era. Do you have any insight into just how close the two of them were?
35) Maksim (Twitter) – What is your favorite memory of your time with him? Any specific moment you would like ppl to know.

This episode was edited by Paul Black.

Additional Links
• TheMJCast 063: Q Q&A
• TheMJCast 069: C Q&A
• TheMJCast 074: J Q&A
• TheMJCast 099: Leaving Neverland Q&A
• TheMJCast 130: An Evening With Charlie and Jamon
• TheMJCast 147: The Big British Q&A
• TheMJCast 159: E Q&A
• In the Studio with MJ on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
• Brad’s website and seminar tickets.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD!

Jamon Bull, Charles Thomson, and Paul Black join forces to launch Season 11 of The MJCast. The fellas discuss Kingvention 2025, Brad Sundberg’s upcoming Australia and New Zealand tour, newly upscaled Michael Jackson short films, the recent troubles facing the biopic, and the impending sequel to 2019’s Leaving Neverland, “Surviving Michael Jackson”. Welcome to Season 11!

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Discussion Topics
• Kingvention has been announced for May 24th in London.
• Brad Sundberg is coming to Australia.
• Michael Jackson’s Off The Wall era short films, including Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough, Rock With You, and She’s Out of My Life, have been upscaled and re-released on YouTube.
• Following the Financial Times story on the latest extortion attempt against Michael Jackson, the biopic is experiencing production issues.
• The sequel to Leaving Neverland, “Surviving Michael Jackson”, is due in March.

Additional Links
• Judy Garland’s “Get Happy” video.

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Taj Jackson joins Elise Capron, Jamon Bull, Charles Thomson, and Charlie Carter to celebrate the holidays and reflect on this past year… Welcome to The MJCast’s tenth annual Christmas special!

The gang discusses the year that was, from the very sad news of Tito Jackson’s passing in September, as well as the loss of such legends as Quincy Jones and Colin Chilvers, to Paris Jackson’s recent engagement. They also dig into the intriguing story around the uncovered tapes of unheard MJ tracks, and chat about newly released prints and artwork available from Michael Jackson collaborators, fantastic documentary footage of the Jackson 5, and updates on MJ: The Musical, Michael Jackson ONE, and the MJ biopic. Plus, Charles explains important legal updates around the Robson and Safechuck trial timeline, a verdict in the Jordan Neely case, and the report on the Estate taking five people to court over what was suggested as an extortion plot, with thread of abuse allegations. Lastly, Taj provides further updates on his docuseries project, and the team looks ahead to 2025.

Special thanks to Taj Jackson for being a part of our annual Christmas Special for many years. It’s an honor to have this tradition with you.

And, huge thanks to all of our listeners and MJFam around the world. We could not do this without you. Wishing you a happy 2025 to come!

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter and Jamon Bull.

Discussion Topics
• The year that was…
• Legendary guitarist of the Jackson 5, Tito Jackson, has passed away at age 70.
• Michael Jackson’s daughter, Paris Jackson, is now engaged to Justin Long.
• Unheard Michael Jackson tracks found, but Estate declines to buy.
• Moonwalker director Colin Chilvers has passed away at age 79.
• Quincy Jones has passed away at age 91.
• Michael Jackson again tops Forbes’ list of highest-paid dead celebrities.
• Roman Banks to lead Australian version of “MJ: The Musical”, as Miles Frost departs UK version.
• “Save the Children” documentary restored and now on Netflix.
• Thriller and Smooth Criminal have now surpassed a billion views on YouTube.
• Steven Whitsitt has made available previously unreleased prints of Michael Jackson.
• New Nate Giorgio prints on MJ store.
• Michael Jackson ONE revamped with new technology.
• A verdict has been delivered in the Jordan Neely case.
• Debate continues over Robson and Safechuck trial timeline.
• An update on the latest Michael Jackson extortion plot.
• A Righting HIStory update from Taj Jackson.
• Season Ten Blooper Reel
• Looking back, and looking forward…

Additional Links
• Support the “Faking Michael” podcast by voting and donating.

Like this episode?
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Gregg Wright joins Jamon Bull and Shawn Shackelford for a fascinating interview about Gregg’s time working with the King of Pop, as guitarist on the Victory Tour.

Gregg has been called “one of the most innovative guitarists of our time”. He began his professional career on the U.S. Southern circuit in the mid-1970s, and honed his craft with years of playing one-nighters across the Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Louisiana and Texas, often opening shows for the big national touring acts of the day. An ’80s move from Louisiana to Los Angeles saw Wright become a session man and “hired gun” touring guitarist. His reputation grew over the next decade doing albums and tours with Mick Fleetwood, Michael Jackson, and the Gap Band.

In this interview, the guys chat with Gregg about his incredible career, how he came to be hired for the iconic Victory tour, and what it was like being a live music collaborator with Michael Jackson.

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Additional Links
• Gregg Wright’s Instagram and website.
• Brice Najar’s interview with Gregg.
• The Jacksons’ Victory Tour live in Toronto (1984).

Like this episode?
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Mick Garris, renowned producer, director, screenwriter and novelist joins Paul Black for an in-depth interview about his amazing career, including his work with Michael Jackson.

Garris began his journey with Michael Jackson when both he and his wife appeared as zombies in the “Thriller” short film. Years later, because of his work with Stephen King, Garris was pulled in to work on what became the “Ghosts” short film. He co-wrote the story with Jackson and King, and was the original director on the project, then under the title “Is This Scary”. He worked closely on set with Jackson for two weeks, though, later, Stan Winston would take over as director when the project was shelved due to the 1993 allegations levelled against Michael Jackson.

Garris has long been an icon in the film industry, and particularly in the world of horror, having worked with Steven Spielberg on multiple projects, and achieving major success via his many collaborations with Stephen King, including directing the hugely popular series, “The Stand”, the TV adaptation of “The Shining”, and much more. He also directed “Critters 2”, “Psycho IV: The Beginning”, and co-wrote the screenplays for major feature films such as “Batteries Not Included”, “The Fly 2”, and “Hocus Pocus”. In 2005, he created the Showtime anthology series, “Masters of Horror”. Until last year, he also hosted the popular podcast, “Post Mortem”, which features interviews with major filmmakers and other creators.

In this chat, Garris talks about his experiences on the sets of these two iconic short films, and gives insights into working with The King of Pop, as well as his memories of the friendship they developed.

Wishing all our MJ Fam around the world a happy Thriller Night!

Special thanks to Friend of the Show Adam Green for connecting us with Mick.

This episode was edited by Paul Black and Jamon Bull.

Additional Links
• Mick Garris’s website, Instagram, and Twitter pages.
• Mick’s “Post Mortem” podcast.

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Jamon Bull welcomes renowned singer-songwriter Darryl Phinnessee to The MJCast for a discussion about his amazing career, including his many years working with The King of Pop.

Darryl is a Grammy-winning singer, and one of the industry’s most in-demand session and touring vocalists. He has worked in the studio with Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder, and Whitney Houston, and toured with Don Henley, Rod Stewart, Lionel Richie, and more. He also spent seven seasons on one of America’s most popular TV shows – Dancing With The Stars. And, he wrote the iconic theme song for one of the most successful sitcoms of all time: Frasier, which saw him nominated for an Emmy.

In this interview, Jamon and Darryl dive deep into Darryl’s work with Michael Jackson, which spanned many years. He accompanied Michael on all three of his solo tours – Bad, Dangerous and HIStory – providing backing vocals but also joining Michael on center stage, with featured spots during “I’ll Be There” and “Black or White”.

Being a fixture in Michael’s touring band meant he helped make history. He was on stage for Michael’s record-breaking HBO Pay-Per-View concert “Live In Bucharest 1992”, and for his game-changing 1993 Super Bowl performance.

Darryl remained a go-to collaborator for Michael right up to the end of Jackson’s life. In 2009, Darryl was one of the few fixtures from previous tours to have been kept on for the planned This Is It residency in London.

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Additional links
• Darryl Phinnessee’s Facebookpage.

Like this episode?
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Charles Thomson and Gratian Dimech team up for a discussion on major updates in the world of Michael Jackson and the Jackson family. This episode serves as a follow-up to #TheMJCast169. They talk about the heartbreaking news of Tito Jackson’s sudden passing, a revelation around the Estate’s legal action regarding the possible threat of new allegations, and the long-awaited release of “Faking Michael” by Damien Shields, an investigative true crime podcast which uncovers the full story of the fraudulent songs released after the death of Michael Jackson. Charles and Gratian then finish out the episode by talking about Janet Jackson’s problematic Guardian interview, and Charles’ experience seeing Janet live in Paris last week with Jamon.

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Discussion Topics
• Tito Jackson has passed away at age 70. Our deepest condolences go out to Taj, Taryll and TJ, as well as the entire Jackson family.
•  The Michael Jackson Estate engages law enforcement and files an arbitration claim in response to threats of new allegations.
• Damien Shields’ long-awaited investigative true crime podcast series, “Faking Michael”, has been released.
• Janet Jackson has given a problematic Guardian interview and launched the European leg of her Together Again tour (which Charles and Jamon went to see together).

Like this episode?
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Jamon Bull welcomes back MJCast co-founder Q, along with frequent show guest Shawn Shackelford, MJ Radio’s Jason Garcia, and YouTuber Hannah Savage for a big fan chat around news and updates in the world of Michael Jackson. They discuss the announcement of a new docuseries and album for The Jacksons, MJ birthday celebrations in Vegas, recent “wins” by the Estate, including acquiring Steve Porcaro’s music rights, defeating Katherine Jackson in court, and a California judge ruling against Robson and Safechuck in allowing access to past court files, updates on Taj Jackson’s journey to defend his uncle’s legacy, recent and upcoming fan events, and much more. Lots of major news items happened in the days immediately following the recording of this episode. The MJCast will be releasing a follow-up episode soon to address new developments.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Discussion Topics
• Linda Deutsch has passed away at age 80.
• A new Jacksons docu-series and album are in the works.
• Don’t stop till Kamala Harris is president.
• Michael Jackson’s estate hosts a 66th birthday celebration, including an uninspiring Vegas event (with zero news on the biopic).
• It’s over for Katherine Jackson vs The Estate.
• IPSO rejects Taj Jackson’s complaint.
• Taj Jackson has launched Righting HIStory website.
• Judge says no to use the precedent criminal case files.
• Steve Porcaro is selling his music rights to the Estate.
• Jamon and Q, are you going?!
• Kingvention coming to LA on October 12 (Elise will be there).
• Heal LA has been doing King of Popcorn movie nights this year (Elise attended June date), and will be doing This Is Thriller in October.
• The return of Fuzzball?
• Glendale’s Mayor declares Michael Jackson Remembrance Day.

Like this episode?
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Charles Thomson welcomes first-time guest Gratian Dimech to the show for this year’s Vindication Day Special.

Gratian first saw Michael Jackson live on the Bad Tour and first met him on the Dangerous Tour. Attending 35 Dangerous concerts, he got to know many of Michael’s inner circle. Michael and Brett Barnes even nicknamed Gratian and his friend Justin as the “Waldos”, because wherever they went, they could pick them out of the crowd.

Gratian became an advocate and an activist, challenging negative media coverage of Michael. His creative protest against a particular British tabloid photographer was immortalised in Adrian Grant’s book Michael Jackson: A Visual Documentary and he has been interviewed about it for filmmaker Jin Chohan’s upcoming documentary series “Trial By Media”.

Gratian had a front-row view for everything from the “Give In To Me” music video shoot, to Jarvis Cocker’s stage invasion during Michael’s 1996 Brit Awards performance, and even the infamous, history-altering bridge collapse during Michael’s 1999 MJ and Friends benefit concert in Munich.

Gratian has toured Neverland, got stuck in New York when the Twin Towers were attacked mere hours after Michael’s 30th Anniversary concerts, and even spent time hanging out in Janet Jackson’s hotel rooms.

When Michael drove around London on an open top bus to protest against Sony Music, Gratian was on the bus with him – and when Michael went on trial in 2005, Gratian flew out to support him, even winning the lottery to go inside the courtroom.

In this unscripted conversation with his friend Charles Thomson, Gratian tells us only a fraction of his amazing and insightful experiences in the orbit of Michael Jackson. The MJCast can’t wait to have him back for future episodes!

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter and Jamon Bull.

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Jamon Bull welcomes iconic guitarist, Jennifer Batten, to The MJCast for a long-awaited, deep-dive interview about her amazing career in music, and her years performing with The King of Pop.

Batten, known for her original approach to the electric guitar (and her nearly-as-legendary hair!), rose in the music industry when she was selected to play in Michael Jackson’s BAD tour. She would go on to play lead and rhythm guitar on the Dangerous and HIStory world tours, as well, and joined Jackson for the 1993 Super Bowl halftime show. She also appeared in the “Come Together” segment on “Moonwalker”. For any fan of MJ, both her performances and her striking presence are an unforgettable part of ‘80s and ‘90s-era Michael Jackson.

In addition to her work on stage with Jackson, Batten has had her own vibrant career. She has released three solo albums, worked closely with Jeff Beck for several years, has authored two music books and released instructional DVDs, and did a guitar residency for the Cirque Du Soleil show “Zumanity” in Las Vegas. In 2016, she received the She Rocks “Icon” award, and was inducted into Guitar Player Magazine’s “Gallery of the Greats”. Batten continues to tour regularly, and has shows coming up around the world, including Michael Jackson tribute shows. (Tour link below.)

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Additional links
• Jennifer Batten’s website, tour dates, and page in support of Michael Jackson.
• Batten’s Twitter and Instagram.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
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Jamon Bull, Charles Thomson, and Charlie Carter welcome first-time guest Danny Oliver to the show, and welcome back Anika Kotecha, co-founder of MJ Innocent, for a big fan chat around updates in the world of Michael Jackson. They discuss the leak of the Invincible-era track, “Can’t Get Your Weight Off of Me”, updates on Katherine Jackson’s case against the Estate’s MIJAC sale, a major development with Wade Robson and James Safechuck’s cases, and recent experiences at the London version of MJ: The Musical. Plus, Danny, who is well-known in the fan community for his Michael Jackson tribute performances, shares his fan story, which includes performing for the King of Pop himself, as well as performing alongside Jennifer Batten.

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull and Charlie Carter.

Discussion Topics
• The unreleased Invincible era track “Can’t Get Your Weight Off of Me” has leaked.
• Katherine Jackson’s case against the Estate’s MIJAC sale continues.
• Wade Robson and James Safechuck’s cases have been merged, amidst their lawyer’s request to access photographs of Michael’s genitals.
• Charles, Anika, and Danny’s experiences seeing the UK version of “MJ: The Musical”.
• Danny Oliver’s fan story.

Additional links
• Danny Oliver’s website and YouTube channel.
• Danny’s appearance on “This Morning” discussing the question of “Should Michael Jackson’s Music Be Banned?”
• The controversial documentary, “Wacko About Jacko”, in which Danny appeared. Also on Vimeo.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Elise Capron and Jamon Bull are joined by Andy Healy, Casey Rain and first-time guest Bobby Huntley for a round-up of news in the world of Michael Jackson, and a discussion around an intriguing upcoming film project based on the lives of MJ and Prince. The team chats about recently leaked footage from the 30th Anniversary rehearsals, the results of the Heal LA auction for a walk-on role in the MJ biopic, casting updates for that film, and the star-studded premiere of MJ: The Musical in London. Their main discussion topic is around a live-action film-in-development, called Royalty At the Park, which is created by Bobby, co-written by Andy, and with Casey as a Producer. Based on true events, it is set in the spring of 1988, and images the meeting of icons Michael Jackson and Prince at the Paisley Park compound. With so much myth built up around these two artists, particularly in terms with their interactions with and feelings for each other, the film is fodder for lots of interesting, deep-dive discussion.

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Discussion Topics
• More 30th Anniversary rehearsal footage has leaked.
• Heal LA auctioned a ‘walk-on’ role for the Michael Jackson Biopic.
• Following Miles Teller as John Branca, more casting updates for the biopic have been announced, including the Jackson 5, and Laura Harrier as Suzanne de Passe.
• MJ The Musical has premiered in London.
• Royalty at the Park is coming!

Additional links
• Royaly at the Park website.
• Bobby Huntley’s Twitter, and main filmmaking website. (And his early-on YouTube review of MJ: The Musical!)
• Andy Healy’s Twitter, MJ101 series of ebooks, website, and albumism reviews.
• Casey Rain’s Twitter and YouTube channel, The Violet Reality.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD!

Jamon Bull and Charles Thomson kick off Season 10 of The MJCast with a big round-up of news in the world of Michael Jackson and the Jackson family. They discuss loads of updates around the MJ biopic, the “Estate vs Katherine Jackson” case, the Robson and Safechuck trials, Sony’s acquisition of a stake in Michael Jackson’s music catalogue, new recordings of interviews with the King of Pop, unreleased music being auctioned off, and more. Plus, the guys discuss their thoughts on two new documentaries: “The Greatest Night in Pop”, about the recording of “We Are the World”, and “The Three Michaels”, which follows a group of young MJ impersonators chasing their dreams.

Welcome to Season 10 of The MJCast!

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull and Charlie Carter.

Discussion Topics
• New pics of Michael on the “Remember the Time” set have been released.
• New recordings of Michael being interviewed for his autobiography have been released.
• Unreleased Michael Jackson song “Seven Digits” is being auctioned after a range of other songs were also auctioned late last year.
• Sony Music buys stake in Michael Jackson’s music catalogue.
• More details have been revealed in the “Estate vs Katherine Jackson” case.
• Susan Yu joins the defence team in the Robson/Safechuck cases.
• The Biopic is full steam ahead.
• We watched “The Three Michaels”.
• We watched “The Greatest Night in Pop”.

Like this episode?
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Taj Jackson joins Jamon Bull, Elise Capron, Charlie Carter, and Charles Thomson to celebrate the holidays and reflect on this past year… Welcome to The MJCast’s ninth annual Christmas special!

The crew discusses the year that was, including the final version of the Thriller40 documentary; Marcos Cabota’s problems with finding a distributor for his own Thriller documentary, Sonic Fantasy; a major auction of Dick Zimmerman’s Thriller album cover test Polaroids and camera; and drama around a digital release of The Jackson 5’s first-ever recording. Plus, the team covers updates on MJ: The Musical, the Robson and Safechuck court cases, the MJ biopic, and Taj shares the latest developments on his docuseries project, as well as insights into the happenings within both the Jackson family and fan community circles.

Special thanks to Taj Jackson for being a part of our annual Christmas Special for many years. It’s an honor to have this tradition with you.

And, huge thanks to all of our listeners and MJFam around the world. We could not do this without you. Wishing you a happy 2024 to come!

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Participants
• Taj Jackson (Donate to Taj’s docuseries, Re-Righting HIStory, and subscribe to updates here.)
• Jamon Bull
• Elise Capron
• Charlie Carter
• Charles Thomson

Discussion Topics
• Thriller 40 documentary has been released.
• Marcos Cabota reveals more detail as to why he’s found releasing Sonic Fantasy problematic.
• Unseen Michael Jackson Thriller album cover photos have been auctioned. (You can hear our interview with Dick Zimmerman, who took the photos, here.)
• The Jackson 5’s first ever recordings were recently released digitally, and the Estate is not happy.
• ‘MJ: The Musical’ run extended in London, and now coming to Sydney, Australia!
• An update on Taj’s docuseries.
• Wade and James drop Finaldi.
• Biopic shooting and scheduled for 2026 release.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations. Learn all about the various ways you can support The MJCast through visiting our website.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Bob Jenkis, award-winning filmmaker and editor, joins Jamon Bull and Paul Black for an in-depth interview about his career and his work with Michael Jackson.

Jenkis is an icon in the world of music videos, film and advertising, and is known for shaping the look of modern film editing. Working in the industry since before the dawn of MTV, he has edited clips and cut music videos for an incredibly wide range of music legends, including Janet Jackson, Madonna, Prince, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Quincy Jones, James Brown, and many, many more. He has also been deeply involved in the production of large-scale network television specials and concerts.

His long-running relationship with Michael Jackson began in the early 1990s, when he made spots for the “Dangerous” album—work which was used later as the opening to Jackson’s European Tour, his “Live In Bucharest” concert film, and was included in two compilations of music videos under the title “Brace Yourself.” Jenkis also edited “Live from Bucharest”, an epic task he completed in only 10 days before it aired on HBO. He continued to work on a number of projects for the King of Pop over the years including never-before-seen versions of Ghosts and the HIStory teaser, and concluded his time working with Michael by consulting on promo spots for “This Is It” just months before Jackson’s passing in 2009.

In this deep-dive chat, Jamon and Paul get the inside scoop on all of these incredible moments in Michael Jackson history, as well as rare insights into the technical elements of these massive projects.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Additional Links
• Bob Jenkis’ website.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations. Learn all about the various ways you can support The MJCast through visiting our website.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Adam Green, Paul Black, and Hannah Savage join host Jamon Bull for a deep-dive discussion around Michael Jackson’s masterpiece, Ghosts. They chat about all aspects of the incredible short film (which is so often neglected by a mainstream audience), including the story, music, choreography, cinematography and editing. Plus, they explore whether Ghosts has aged well, in comparison to another iconic Jackson short film, Thriller. Finally, they dig into an assortment of other topics around this project, including the ’93 version, the making of, the boxset, and assess why Ghosts didn’t achieve the widespread acclaim of some of Jackson’s other major works.

This roundtable group brings incredible insights into the history and context of the Ghosts short film through their unique perspectives as film makers and editors, and they have great stories to share, such as Paul Black’s experience of sitting just a few seating away from Jackson himself, at the 1997 Australia premiere of the film.

Happy Thriller Night!

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Participants
• Adam Green (film director and host of The Movie Crypt podcast)
• Paul Black (Sydney-based Film editor, and Friend of the Show)
• Hannah Savage (YouTube documentarian who has made a great videos about Blood on the Dance Floor, Ghosts, and other MJ topics)
• Jamon Bull, co-host of The MJCast

Additional Links
• Official, full-length short film of Michael Jackson’s Ghosts.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations. Learn all about the various ways you can support The MJCast through visiting our website.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Mastodon
• Twitter
• Threads
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Taj Jackson joins Charles Thomson for a deep-dive discussion around updates in his life and work. The guys talk about developments with Taj’s docuseries on Michael Jackson, “Re-Righting History”, as well as the upcoming MJ biopic, the recent Robson/Safechuck ruling, Leaving Neverland 2, Taj’s insights regarding his interactions with fans, the exciting recent expansion of his family with the birth of his third daughter, and much more.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Additional Links
• You can donate to Taj’s docuseries, and get updates, here.
• Taj’s Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
• If you have the means, consider donating through PayPal to help cover our costs. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations. Learn all about the various ways you can support The MJCast through visiting our website.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Mastodon
• Twitter
• Threads
• YouTube

If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

It’s been a minute since we did a Q&A, MJFam! Elise Capron is usually the one asking the questions, but in this episode, she takes a turn in the hot seat, and answers a wide range of questions submitted by listeners, covering everything from her fan history and personal MJ picks, to thoughts on the biopic, Estate projects, her podcast guest wish-list, behind-the-scenes of The MJCast, and much more. Huge thanks to all of you who sent in submissions! It is a reminder of what a great fan community we have.

Questions
Simonpaulwilkie(Instagram)
1) Brave! 🔥 As a long time lover of the show, I’d love to know what it was like going from listener to presenter. Any surprises in how the show is put together and what it takes to make an episode. I couldn’t think of any way to say thank you better than contributing my own time to something I adore so much. Keep it up! ❤️

Xollophoto(Instagram)
2) What are all the Michael Jackson-related places you’ve visited (i.e. Thriller house) and what’s your favorite?

Charlie Carter (Twitter)
3) What is your favourite MJ song and why is it Just Good Friends?

Dane Thomson(Twitter)
4) Why is the Bad era your favourite?

Mumofsuperstars(Instagram)
5) Have you met any of the Jackson family 🙂

Etebeye(Instagram)
6) Elise, which of Michael’s concert tours do you wish to go back in time for and watch live?

Etebeye(Instagram)
7) Which movie character, past or present, would Michael have been a good fit?

Etebeye(Instagram)
8) Was Michael cool or a dud in your school growing up?

Sanja1980(Instagram)
9) First of all thanks for all your hard work on the show! Questions: who was your favorite special guest so far and who do you wish you could interview for the show in the future?

JayKay0603(Twitter)
10) Who are some special guests you would like to come on the show in the future, and if given the opportunity who would YOU personally like to interview if they ever came on?

JayKay0603(Twitter)
11) And another MJ question if that’s okay, if you could be on the set of only ONE of Michael’s short films, which one would it be and why?

Genesta Coleman(Twitter)
12) Love the MJ cast ❤️👑♥️ why you don’t have a live stream ? And a call in show so MJ fans can talk openly about different topics ? 🤗🤗 Thank you so much for coming into my life.

Constantinos Isaias(Threads)
13) With no limitations, which one could have been your favorite special guests that you have like to interview?

Q(Threads)
14) Oh cool! Hello over here on peaceful Threads! I’d like to know what would be your Top 3 dream guests (living or passed.).

Q(Threads)
15) Cheeky second question(s), with talk of a director calling out Captain EO as prime material for a feature film, (I personally don’t see this happening but it could be fun), tell us about your first ever Captain EO experience, and if it ever became available as a physical product (it won’t), what would you include in the package?

Porter Wolff (email)
16) If you had a wish-list for future MJCAST Specials, who would be your top 5? Mine would be Buz Kohan, Freddie DeMann, Gary Hearne, Bill Bottrell and Nick Brandt.

Momowelz65(Instagram)
17) What is your favourite Michael Jackson estate project, the MJ musical not included?

Xuedan Wang(Instagram)
18) Is the MJ One fan brunch on Michael’s birthday worth going to?

Joshua Klein (email) – Tucson, Arizona, USA
19) Hello Elise and the rest of The MJCast, been binging a lot of episodes for the past year now and I love the show and have been keeping up with new episodes ever since. I’ve heard plenty of discussions around everyone’s feelings towards the MJ estate and in some ways I completely agree with some of the opinions given. But as a casual fan of Michael, is it morally wrong to also buy new products/attend estate hosted events such as the birthday celebrations in Las Vegas? I like Michael and look forward to anything they put out, but sometimes I feel like I’m on a see-saw. Anyways thank you for taking the time to see my question, keep up the amazing work you all are doing and keep Michael-ing!

Porter Wolff (email)
20) If you had creative control of the estate, what would be the one project you would make and what would it include? A new album, short film boxset, album deluxes, a concert release?

Porter Wolff (email)
21) It’s been mentioned that an Estate Roundtable episode has been in the works, any update on if that is still the case?

Porter Wolff (email)
22) Do you know the level of completion for songs like “Buffalo Bill” and “Make or Break”, which are bad era tracks made with John Barnes. What about “Rich Girl”, which was made with Brad Buxer during history.

Porter Wolff (email)
23) You went to a seminar where John Barnes spoke, were there any stories he told there that you were unable to ask during his special episode? (Note to Porter: I fully intend to follow up on this question down the road! -E)

Jace Bain / MixingHistory(Instagram)
24) You’re writing the upcoming MJ biopic; how do you open and w/ what song?

Evaeva7(Instagram)
25) And how would you close it and with what song?

Sydni Taylor (email)
26) Are you excited for the biopic? As a fan, I fear that the media will mock and pick at it the minute a trailer is released, I also fear that these movements for victims would have something to say, hell I wouldn’t be surprised if people protest against the film when it’s time for theatrical release, people protested against Victor Salva’s film which I understood because he was actually guilty, but MJ isn’t but some people aren’t open to hearing that he’s innocent, I also fear the other film directors will get the idea to make a negative movie about MJ.

Sue Vick Finley(Instagram)
27) Someone just told me MJ had surgery to keep his voice high. I don’t believe that is true, but I didn’t know how to definitively say there is proof.

Sue Vick Finley(Instagram)
28) We just saw MJ the Musical. There was a part where he was signing papers to leverage Neverland against the dangerous tour. Did something like that really happen?

Sue Vick Finley(Instagram)
29) Black Music Archive: the voice the singing the explained Michael Jackson. Have you seen this. Is it a source to be trusted?

Sue Vick Finley(Instagram)
30) Any news on how Taj’s project is coming?

Sue Vick Finley(Instagram)
31) How can I watch Sonic Fantasy? It doesn’t seem to be on any platform for the average person to watch it. Thanks for all the wonderful work you all do on this podcast!

Cindy Messina(Instagram)
32) What are your thoughts on the new MJ podcast called Think Twice?

Sue Vick Finley(Instagram)
33) I recently read that Lisa Marie was a scientologist. Do you know anything about that play a role in their marriage?

Freakinuhmazin(Twitter)
34) Why do you think no one ever talks about how Lisa and Michael kept getting back together and breaking up for four more years after their divorce? I think it’s awesome that they kept clapping cheeks. 😂😁

Gsingh1385(Instagram)
35) Would it be possible to do a round table on the Living with Michael Jackson documentary?

Sydni Taylor (email)
36) Does anyone know if Prince Jackson is still interested in being a film director?

Also, big thanks to Italian_to_gofor questions on the allegations, Andrewfor questions on State of Shock, and Heli Tenhunen for question about Michael Jackson’s personal believes. All of these questions were left out of this episode because Elise decided they were either better addressed by another team member, and/or should be saved for a longer discussion on a future episode!

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Additional Links
• TheMJCast 063: Q Q&A
• TheMJCast 069: C Q&A
• TheMJCast 074: J Q&A
• TheMJCast 099: Leaving Neverland Q&A
• TheMJCast130: An Evening With Charlie and Jamon
• TheMJCast147: The Big British Q&A

Support Us
• Please consider donating through PayPal to help cover our costs. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
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• Threads
• YouTube

If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay Bad!

John Cameron joins Jamon Bull and Charlie Thomson for a discussion on loads of recent news updates in the world of Michael Jackson, including a chat around John’s latest episode of his excellent podcast, #JCsMusicology, “Michael Jackson (1983-1988)”. The guys also talk about a range of fan-led projects, including the upcoming Kingvention, developments on Jin Chohan’s documentary, “Trial By Media” as well as a new YouTube documentary by Hannah Savage, “The Dark Side of Michael Jackson’s This Is It”, and Paul Dwyer’s podcast based on his book, “Humanitarian: The Real Michael Jackson”. Plus, they talk about the confirmation of the #Thriller40 documentary, a statement from Katherine Jackson, and a major update in Wade Robson’s legal case against Michael Jackson.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Discussion Topics
• Kingvention have announced special guests for their 2023 convention. 
• Jin Chohan has offered an update on his upcoming documentary, “Trial By Media”.
• Hannah Savage has released a teaser for her upcoming YouTube documentary, “The Dark Side of Michael Jackson’s This Is It”.
• Paul Dwyer has launched his podcast “Humanitarian: The Real Michael Jackson”.
• John Branca has confirmed that the #Thriller40 documentary is still coming this year. So… #Thriller41?
• Katherine Jackson has responded to the Estate over the ’deal’ saga. 
• La Toya Jackson is to be called as a witness in the legal battle between the Estate and Jeffré Phillips.
• Wade Robson’s case will most likely proceed to trial.
• John Cameron has released his latest episode of podcast #JCsMusicology, “Michael Jackson (1983 – 1988)”.

Support Us
• Please consider donating through PayPal to help cover our costs. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch. 
• Learn all about the various ways you can support The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Geraldine Hughes first came to the world’s attention as an anonymous whistleblower. In 1994, the decorated investigative journalist Mary A Fischer published an article about the child molestation allegations levelled against Michael Jackson by Jordan Chandler and his father Evan. Fischer’s story included information attributed to a source inside the office of attorney Barry Rothman, suggesting that he and his client, Evan Chandler, had cooked up an extortion plot against Michael Jackson. The story was published in more than one major, glossy magazine and was covered by broadcast media – but the whistleblower’s identity was never revealed.

In 2003, however, Geraldine decided to out herself. In 1993, as the Michael Jackson scandal unfolded, she had been working as Barry Rothman’s personal legal secretary. She had unrivalled, insider access to the nerve centre of the celebrity scandal of the century, bearing witness to many meetings and discussions which took place just metres from her desk. Geraldine had been highly disturbed by what she witnessed, and she felt the public would too – but most of the media seemed to have adopted the position that Michael Jackson was guilty and in her view, the full story had never been told. Geraldine’s conscience demanded that she tell the wider public what she knew.

In 2003, as she began work on a tell-all memoir, news suddenly broke that Michael Jackson was being accused again. Her publishers fast-tracked a press release about the impending book, titled Redemption, and Geraldine found herself on a whirlwind media tour. But once again, the media overwhelmingly adopted an anti-Jackson position. While Geraldine’s book would become well-known within the Jackson fan community, her information was largely ignored. 

But in 2019, award-winning filmmaker Danny Wu interviewed Geraldine as he investigated the Chandler case for his feature documentary Square One. Upon its release, Square One became the number one Amazon Prime documentary in the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada, finally bringing Geraldine Hughes’s story to a much wider audience. But in Square One, Geraldine was one voice among many. For the MJCast’s 2023 Vindication Day episode, we decided to sit down with Geraldine.

Unfortunately, technical problems meant the interview ended abruptly and we were unable to reschedule with Geraldine to ask her several more questions. But this episode is nonetheless the most in-depth, one-on-one broadcast interview she had ever given. 

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter and Jamon Bull.

Additional Links
• Geraldine Hughes on Twitter.
• Geraldine’s website for music.
• Purchase Geraldine’s book, Redemption.
• Please consider donating through PayPal to help cover our costs. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations. Learn all about the various ways you can support The MJCast through visiting our website.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Sheryl and June Valone join Elise Capron and Charlie Carter for a discussion about the origins and behind-the-scenes stories of their podcast series, “The Case for Innocence“.

Growing up as a young Michael Jackson fan, June was passionate about learning everything she could about the King of Pop and his music. But when “Leaving Neverland” was released in early 2019, her mother, Sheryl, was concerned about how to handle this information. Would she have to explain to her daughter that her icon was not the hero she thought he was? Believing in the power of due process, Sheryl chose to do her own research so that she could give her daughter the truth, whatever that might ultimately be. In the course of what became an extensive personal investigation over the course of many months, and which expanded into researching each set of allegations against Michael Jackson, Sheryl realized that the evidence overwhelmingly pointed to Jackson’s innocence. She was also shocked by how many major media outlets and well-known figures had completely disregarded or manipulated the actual facts of the allegations. With a mission to share the truth, Sheryl and June decided to create a deep-dive podcast series which covers every detail of the Chandler allegations, the Arvizo allegations, the Robson allegations, and the Safechuck allegations. They leave no stone unturned, and give a fair and balanced perspective in their approach. They have also created an impressive website which documents, in detail, their sources, and provides a wealth of additional resources for listeners.

In this chat, the team talk about their original motivations for creating this podcast, what the process has been like for them, the reception from the fan community, their experience now that Season One is out in the world, their plans for continuing to reach new listeners, and what we can expect from Season Two.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Additional Links
• The Case for Innocence website and Twitter.
• Please consider donating through PayPal to help cover our costs. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations. Learn all about the various ways you can support The MJCast through visiting our website.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Mastodon
• Twitter
• YouTube

If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay Bad!

Charlie Thomson and Charlie Carter join host Jamon Bull for a round-up of all the latest news in the world of Michael Jackson, in this first regular episode of Season Nine. The guys discuss major updates happening with “MJ: The Musical” as well as the MJ biopic, new music from Paris Jackson and Tito Jackson, distressing developments around MJ’s music catalogue, a new Janet Jackson documentary, and more. Plus, they hash out their thoughts around the online abuse Taj Jackson has recently suffered.

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Discussion Topics
• “MJ: The Musical” coming to London, and looking for a new Michael Jackson. 
• Friend of the Show Harrison Funk has sadly suffered a stroke.
• Janet Jackson is working on new documentary called “Family Time”.
• Just Blaze has revealed there is an unreleased Michael Jackson and Jay-Z collaboration.
• Paris Jackson has released a new song, “Bandaid”, and Tito has released a new song, called “Make Your Mind Up”.
• Production for the official biopic, “Michael”, is underway, and Jaafar Jackson is set to play the role of his uncle.
• Thriller Night will not take place this year, due to the filming of the biopic.
• The Michael Jackson Estate is aiming to sell a portion of Michael Jackson’s catalogue, a move that Katherine Jackson has objected to.
• Taj and Thayana Jackson are having their third child.
• Taj Jackson continues to cop ongoing bullying and abuse.

Additional Links
• Please consider donating through PayPal to help cover our costs. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations. Learn all about the various ways you can support The MJCast through visiting our website.
• We also have an official offical merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Mastodon
• Twitter
• YouTube

If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Brad Sundberg, Michael Jackson’s Technical Director, is celebrating ten years as the host of “In the Studio with MJ“, a touring seminar exploring Michael’s music.

But in January of this year he fell victim to a crime which sent shockwaves through the fan community, when his personal equipment was stolen by a bootlegger, who raided and released the contents.

In his first and only interview about the devastating theft, he speaks to The MJCast co-hosts Elise Capron, Jamon Bull, and guest host Shawn Shackelford.

Kicking off Season Nine of The MJCast, Brad explains for the first time how the thief made off with hundreds of unreleased Michael Jackson songs and videos and the impact that has had on Brad’s personal and professional lives.

He also shares stories from his time working with the King of Pop, explains what it takes to run a touring seminar on the scale of ITSWMJ, and reveals what’s next for Brad Sundberg.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Participants
• Elise Capron
• Jamon Bull
• Shawn Shackelford
• Brad Sundberg

Additional Links
• The “In the Studio with MJ” website and new merch
• Brad Sundberg’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages
• The MJCast 015: Brad Sundberg Special
• The MJCast 142: Reflections on John Barnes Roundtable
• 100% of The MJCast’s content is, and will remain, free. If you enjoy our show, consider a donation to help support us. All donations go directly towards off-setting our costs of running the show: Website hosting, equipment purchases, and more. You can donate any amount via PayPal. Thank you so much for your support!

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Mastodon
• Twitter
• YouTube

If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Taj Jackson joins Jamon Bull, Elise Capron, Charlie Carter, and Charles Thomson to celebrate the holidays and reflect on this past year… Welcome to The MJCast’s eighth annual Christmas special!

The crew discusses loads of news updates and developments in the world of Michael Jackson, including the Thriller Night party at Hayvenhurst, the strange turn John Branca’s social media has taken, the Estate’s hiring of creators such as Lynn Nottage and Nelson George, incredible found footage of Michael Jackson’s Sega game, updates in Taj Jackson’s life and with his docuseries project, and much more. Plus, the team reflects on the year that was at the podcast, and what we have coming up in Season 9.

We want to give a special thank-you to all of our listeners; to the wider MJ fan community; to our amazing fellow content creators (who all do this our of love for MJ’s legacy!); to our long-time back-end team (Q, James Alay, Jason Garcia); to frequent guests on the show who have contributed so much (Shawn Shackelford, Damien Shields, Velo Kristina, and more); to all the guests we’ve had on, including Jackson family members, studio collaborators, and long-time fans; to all of those who have provided logistical and emotional support along the way; and to our families, who put up with the many hours we spend working on this show. And, of course, to the King of Pop, who is the one who brings us all together in the first place. Happy holidays, #MJFam.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Participants
• Taj Jackson (Donate to Taj’s docuseries, Re-Righting HIStory, here.)
• Jamon Bull
• Elise Capron
• Charlie Carter
• Charles Thomson

Discussion Topics
• Thriller Night party. What a night!
• What is going on with John Branca’s new social media presence?
• Lynn Nottage still on the fence regarding Michael Jackson.
• Charlie Thomson’s review of the Broadway show.
• Charlie Thomson’s review of the early showing of Nelson George’s Thriller 40 documentary.
• Incredible lost Michael Jackson Sega game footage uncovered by fans.
• Taj’s updates on life and projects!
• 2022: The year that was, and what we have coming up in 2023.
• Thank yous
• Bloopers

Additional Links
• 100% of The MJCast’s content is, and will remain, free. If you enjoy our show, consider a donation to help support us. All donations go directly towards off-setting our costs of running the show: Website hosting, equipment purchases, and more. You can donate any amount via PayPal. Thank you so much for your support!

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Michael Jackson’s album, Thriller, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and important albums in music history. Released 40 years ago, on November 30, 1982, it changed the landscape of pop music, and may have even saved the music industry itself.

In this episode, Charlie Carter hosts a deep-dive fan discussion reflecting on all things Thriller 40. Joining him are guests Damien Shields, Shawn Shackelford, and Paul Black. The guys talk about the continuing influence of Thriller, the bonus tracks included on the 40th anniversary edition, the long-awaited release of the 4K versions of the short films “Thriller” and “Beat It”, the upcoming documentary by Nelson George, and they contemplate what they would have liked to see on their own version of the Thriller 40 release.

This episode was edited by Jason Garcia and Charlie Carter.

Participants
• Charlie Carter, Audio Producer of The MJCast
• Damien Shields, author of Michael Jackson: Songs & Stories From The Vault, and creator of the podcast series The Genesis of Thriller and the upcoming Faking Michael.
• Shawn Shackelford, long-time Jacksons fan and regular guest of The MJCast.
• Paul Black, Sydney-based Film editor, and Friend of the Show (whom we’re happy to have back on after a long absence!)

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
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• YouTube

If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Matt Forger, legendary studio engineer and Michael Jackson collaborator, joins co-hosts Jamon Bull and Charles Thomson for Part 2 of an extensive interview in celebration of Thriller’s 40th anniversary, Blood on the Dance Floor’s 25th anniversary, and marking 150 episodes of The MJCast.

Forger is an icon in the music industry. He recorded classic Michael Jackson songs for the albums Thriller, Bad, Dangerous, HIStory, and Blood on the Dance Floor, worked on Captain EO, and much more. Not only was Forger a crucial player in shaping many of music history’s most important tracks, but he worked with the King of Pop during his creative and commercial peak. He also worked closely with other well-known Jackson studio collaborators and innovators such as John Barnes and Brad Buxer. Forger, through his technical wizardry, helped Michael Jackson push the boundaries of pop music, creating songs and experiences that will live on for generations to come.

These are the stories behind the songs.

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Additional Links
• The MJCast 142: Reflections on John Barnes Roundtable
• The MJCast 089: John Barnes Special

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Matt Forger, legendary studio engineer and Michael Jackson collaborator, joins co-hosts Jamon Bull and Charles Thomson for an extensive interview in celebration of Thriller’s 40th anniversary, Blood on the Dance Floor’s 25th anniversary, and marking 150 episodes of The MJCast. This is the team’s first two-part interview, which will be continued in #TheMJCast151.

Forger is an icon in the music industry. He recorded classic Michael Jackson songs for the albums Thriller, Bad, Dangerous, HIStory, and Blood on the Dance Floor, worked on Captain EO, and much more. Not only was Forger a crucial player in shaping many of music history’s most important tracks, but he worked with the King of Pop during his creative and commercial peak. He also worked closely with other well-known Jackson studio collaborators and innovators such as John Barnes and Brad Buxer. Forger, through his technical wizardry, helped Michael Jackson push the boundaries of pop music, creating songs and experiences that will live on for generations to come.

These are the stories behind the songs.

The entire MJCast team would like to thank our listeners, from the bottom of our hearts, for all the support and engagement through 150 episodes of interviews and fan discussion. We could not do this without you, and cherish the community we’ve built, all for honoring the legacy of the King of Pop!

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Additional Links
• The MJCast 142: Reflections on John Barnes Roundtable
• The MJCast 089: John Barnes Special

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Violet Gaitan Booker joins host Elise Capron, with guest co-host Velo Kristina, for an incredible discussion around her time working for the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Violet (known as Violet Gaitan Silva at the time) was a key staff member at Michael Jackson’s Neverland Valley Ranch from 1991-2005. Violet started at the Ranch as a security officer, eventually becoming Chief of Fire and Security, and finally oversaw Safety and Human Resources for twelve different departments, from Fire/Security, to Grounds-keeping, House-keeping, the Amusement Park, Zoo, and much more. Violet also gave testimony in the 2005 trial, in which Michael Jackson was found not guilty of all abuse allegations, and, after she left Neverland, she went to work as an investigator for Robert Sanger, defense attorney for Michael Jackson alongside Tom Mesereau.

In this discussion, the ladies discuss Violet’s amazing stories of working for Jackson for fourteen years, including how she began working at Neverland, what is was like working at the ranch on a day-to-day basis, the logistics of hosting large groups and VIP guests, interactions with staff, her memories of Michael Jackson as a boss and insights about him as a father and individual, and much more. They also talk about the time period around the allegations, clarify some statements made during the trial, and discuss in detail her unique feelings about this special place where she spent so much time.

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull and Charlie Carter. It was saved by John Cameron.

Additional Links
• Violet Gaitan Booker’s Facebook page
• TheMJCast 005: Kerry Anderson Special
• TheMJCast 097: Bill Whitfield Special

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• TheMJCast.com
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD!

In this regular news episode, Q joins host Jamon Bull for a round-up of all the latest news in the world of Michael Jackson. The dynamic duo discuss the Estate’s gradual reveal of bonus tracks on “Thriller 40”, the return of “This Is It” to Netflix, controversial leaked live “HIStory World Tour” vocals, a new podcast series on the Michael Jackson allegations, the new TMZ documentary, “Who Really Killed Michael Jackson”, an MJ connection to the new TV series “The Sandman”, and more. Plus, Friend of the Show Jenny Winings contributes a special report on the MJ birthday events in Las Vegas.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Discussion Topics
• Michael Jackson’s “This Is It” is returning to Netflix for a limited time during September.
• J. Randy Taraborrelli has revealed that CNN is working on a Victory Tour documentary.
• Vincent Paterson’s books “Icons and Instincts” has been released in English.
• Live “HIStory World Tour” vocals have leaked, and we aren’t sharing them.
• Michael Jackson wanted to star as Morpheus in “The Sandman”.
• Roundup of MJ birthday events in Vegas courtesy of Friend of the Show, Jenny Winings. A partial livestream can be seen here.
• The Estate are slowly revealing Thriller 40 bonus tracks before release. So far, “Behind the Mask (Demo)”, “She’s Trouble” and “The Toy”.
• Michael Jackson fans, mother daughter duo Sheryl and June from Virginia, are about to release the “Michael Jackson: Case for Innocence” podcast series.
•  Fox has released a new documentary called “TMZ Investigates: Who Really Killed Michael Jackson”.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Michael On!

It’s been quite a while since the team’s last Q&A episode, and this round features three of our favorite Brits in the fan community: Charles Thomson, Samar Habib, and Charlie Carter. With nearly 100 questions received, the guys tackle a wide range of topics, from the allegations, to Taj Jackson’s documentary project, to favorite Michael Jackson books, insights on MJ’s lyrics and politics, and much more. A huge thank-you to all those listeners who submitted questions! We wish we could have gotten to them all. Grab yourself some tea and biscuits and enjoy this deep-dive fan chat.

Questions
Emma (Twitter) – South Wales, UK
1) Aside from the Brett Barnes episode (which I think everyone needs to listen to at least once), what would be your Top 3 episodes that a new listener (but lifelong MJ supporter) should listen when delving into previous MJCast podcasts? Emma.

GNTalk (Twitter)
2) Sorry – allegation question. Do the guys think there will ever be a day when one of the accusers, JC in particular, may come public and give their true account?

Dane Thomson (Twitter) – Brisbane, Australia
3) Are British tabloids worse than American tabloids? If so, why do you think this is?

Sydni Taylor (email)
4) Taj said on his Livestream earlier this year that he still believes Jordan Chandler will come forward, do you think Taj is saying this because he contacted Jordan or is it just wishful thinking. Do you believe Jordan will ever come forward. I personally don’t think he’ll ever tell his story.

Rob Seymour (Facebook) – Watford (Near London), UK
5) I’d be interested to know how things worked with regards to the 93 Chandler extortion attempt, if it was actually reported to the Police and whether they actually investigated it? Also Was it part of the settlement that the extortion charge was dropped? And how would that work as you cannot pay someone off to stop them testifying so how would it be legal to drop the extortion charges?

Dr. Andrew Greene (Twitter) – United States
6) My question is for Samar. Samar, I follow you on social media and admire the fact that you aren’t afraid to get a little political. Michael Jackson transcended a lot of barriers, one of those barriers was politics as is evident by his fans from around the world and people around him. From rubbing shoulders with the likes of Ronald Reagan and George H. Bush, to performing for Bill Clinton at his inauguration and later the Democratic Party, to being beloved by those in countries like communist Russia. What is it about Michael Jackson that you believe attracts people from all political spectrums to Michael Jackson? Also, do you believe that Jackson’s music reveals an evolution of his own [political] beliefs as he got older?

Kris (Twitter) – Kansas, USA
7) Yes, if a gun was at your head, what do you guys think are the top 3 MJ songs that never had videos that absolutely HAVE to be turned into videos? Kris from the US.

Andrew Gray (email) – Chicago, USA
8) What are your favorite MJ books?

MJUnreleasedMix (Twitter)
9) How different do you think the last decade of Michael’s life would have been if the bridge collapse in Munich ’99 at MJ & Friends never happened? If he isn’t on painkillers, does the Bashir documentary still happen? The trial? This Is It? Might he still be here today?

Eva (email) – Amsterdam
10) Hey MJ friends! This is Eva from Amsterdam. I have a very specific question but it’s been on my mind for a while and I’m curious to hear your thoughts about it. Do you believe that the song Morphine was a cry for help? And are you aware if anyone responded to that at the time? I remember when the Blood on the Dance Floor album came out I thought “oh, that’s a cool and interesting song,” but I thought nothing else of it (granted, I was only 12 years old at the time). Also throughout my later years as a fan I never looked for a deeper meaning behind it. After Michael’s death, the song suddenly seemed like an ominous foreboding. The extent of MJs addiction to pain killers was widely exposed after he died and some of the lyrics in the song sounded like he predicted his own death and also talked about his own struggle with addiction during his lifetime. “A heart attack, baby”, “Demerol, oh god he’s taking Demerol”; “He’s tried / Hard to convince her / To be over what he had / Today he wants it twice as bad / Don’t cry / I won’t resent you / Yesterday you had his trust / Today he’s taking twice as much / Demerol”, “Relax / This won’t hurt you / Before I put it in / Close your eyes and count to ten /Don’t cry / I won’t convert you / There’s no need to dismay / Close your eyes and drift away”. Those last lines could even be the soundtrack to the scene between ‘doctor’ Murray and MJ in the moments before he died. Looking back, it feels like Michael may have written this song with great self-awareness and consciousness of his addiction. Could this have been a way for him to ask for help? As far as I am aware he never spoke publicly about the extent of his addiction and from what I’ve learned he also kept people who were close to him away from it. And then suddenly he releases this song, which in retrospect seems to be fully autobiographical. Do you know if after he wrote and released this song, there was anyone reaching out to him about it or asking about it? Or was everyone just like me, “hey that’s a cool song bro” and that’s it. When I imagine the loneliness he must have felt if that was indeed the case, it breaks my heart. Imagine sharing your darkest problems in a song (and how desperate you must be to do so, especially as such a public figure) and no one responds to it. Curious to hear your thoughts! I’m also sending this question to Brad Sundberg btw because he may have a perspective on whether anyone in the studio heard any alarm bells when they recorded this song. Warm regards and thank you so much for all the great episodes, Eva.

Rachel Doosti (email) – Dubai
11) Hi Jamon, You and Elise are doing a phenomenal job, love love love the direction of the podcast. Thank you so much to both of you for taking the time and providing great episodes with small children, full-time jobs, and family life. Bless you, both. I recall in one of the episodes Charles went to US and was helping Taj for his doc and reviewing materials and he shared da story of a video of Michael dancing with Jermaine while having a bandage on his nose but he did not share anything else with us. If it is not an intrusion, I love to have more insights on what he saw and reviewed in that trip and share more insights with us. Best Rachel Doosti

David Edwards (email)
12) Here’s my question for Charles Thomson: Are you still involved with Taj Jackson’s documentary “Re-Righting HIStory”, and if so, can you give any updates on its status? Thanks, David Edwards.

Anonymous (email) – Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
13) Why do you think it is that fans invest so heavily in the reporting of Roger Friedman around certain subjects (like the allegations) given that Michael publicly denounced his journalistic integrity while accusing Friedman of writing what Michael described as “vicious and untrue stories in an attempt to destroy my image” throughout the last decade of Michael’s life? Moreover, since Michael’s death Friedman has spent 12 years relentlessly perpetuating the lies of Eddie Cascio, James Porte, Sony and the estate regarding their fake songs, during which he has used his platform to call fans “deranged, bitter, stupid, nuisances” and Michael’s family “greedy and jealous.” Why do fans hold this man up so highly regarding some topics given his egregious conduct on others?

Emmet (email) – Ireland
14) Hi lads, I’ve always been fascinated with the cancelled HBO December 1995 show that MJ had planned but obviously didn’t happen. We always had the visual of MJ performing in stadiums to a sea of people, but I’m sure there is a large proportion of MJ’s fanbase that would’ve loved to have seen a more intimate, less pomp and circumstance concert that focused on his singing ability rather than the usual MJ style that we got from the Bad to History world tours. From what I understand, this concert was going to be just that, and it’s always been a sore spot for me that we never got to see it. Does any of the panel know if any footage exists of MJ rehearsing for that show? We all know he recorded nearly everything relating to his performances, so perhaps there is something in a vault somewhere? Why was the show never rescheduled? Was he unhappy with the production of it? I always wished he’d done a stripped down show, but unfortunately it was never to be. Long-time listener and love the show, keep up the great work! Emmet, Ireland

Jamon Bull – Brisbane, Australia
15) Charlie and Samar. You’ve both spoken about Invincible before, with Charlie being critical of the album and Samar being supportive of it. Is there some common ground that could be reached?

Jamon Bull – Brisbane, Australia
16) Charlie and Samar. Similarly to my Invincible question, you’ve both got very different opinions on Janet Jackson as an artist. Again, could some common ground be reached?

Seány (Twitter) – Russia
17) I felt the discussion reg #MJtheMusical on a past ep was rather unfair & I disagreed with almost 100% of the guests review (I had seen the show 3 times by the time that particular ep had aired) Since its continued successes & accolades, are you more inclined to now want to see it?

Jamon Bull – Brisbane, Australia
18) Charlie, you told me once that you wish you’d had a chance to speak on the episode Elise, Q and Björn did together about whether Michael was a gay icon. Tell me your thoughts.

Jamon Bull – Brisbane, Australia
19) Carter. What was it like looking down on Neverland while flying over it? How much would you like to walk the grounds of Neverland one day?

Mookie864 (Instagram)
20) My question is for CET. Charles, after finishing your Podcast, ‘Unfinished’, last year, I was left feeling like there may be more coming in the future. Can you reveal if you are still investigating the Shoebury topic and if there will be a season 2?

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Additional Links
• TheMJCast 063: Q Q&A
• TheMJCast 069: C Q&A
• TheMJCast 074: J Q&A
• TheMJCast 099: Leaving Neverland Q&A
• TheMJCast130: An Evening With Charlie and Jamon

Connect with Us
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• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on the show, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

On November 8, 2010, Sony Music and the Estate of Michael Jackson unveiled the first song from their new Michael Jackson album in a worldwide premiere via michaeljackson.com. The song, called “Breaking News,” was said to have been written and produced by Eddie Cascio, James Porte and Michael Jackson. But there was one problem… The Jackson family, several of Michael’s former collaborators, and thousands of fans around the world believed the track was fake, with vocals sung by an impostor.

Five weeks after the premiere, “Breaking News” and two other songs also believed to be fakes were commercially released on the album, simply titled “Michael”. Despite the ongoing protests of fans around the world (including The MJCast), the album would remain commercially available in music stores, via online retailers and on streaming platforms for nearly twelve years. One fan in particular, Vera Serova, filed a class action lawsuit against the Estate, Sony, Cascio, Porte and their production company in 2014, which remains unresolved to this day.

Finally, in 2022, the three tracks in question have been removed from digital platforms.

In this conversation, host Jamon Bull is joined by author and Cascio track expert Damien Shields, studio engineer Dan Villalobos, award-winning journalist Charles Thomson, and Friends of the Show James Alay and Samar Habib. The panel discusses the impact of the Cascio Tracks, the long-running lawsuit to have them removed, emerging news that the songs have been removed, and also a statement from the Michael Jackson Estate’s online team that they have removed the songs from sale not because of their legitimacy, but because they have been distracting fans from buying more posthumous products.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Participants
• Jamon Bull
• Damien Shields
• Dan Villalobos
• James Alay
• Charles Thomson
• Samar Habib

Additional Links
• The MJCast’s Remove the Cascio Tracks Now campaign
• #TheMJCast067: Joseph Vogel Special
• Damien Shields’s website, with a section dedicated to the Cascio Tracks.
• Damien’s upcoming Faking Michael podcast
• Damien’s book, Michael Jackson: Songs & Stories From The Vault

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

It is almost thirty years since Brett Barnes last spoke to a journalist. The last time he gave an interview was in 1993, aged eleven, when he took to the airwaves to defend his friend Michael Jackson against allegations that he was a molester of young boys. But the Barnes family quickly learned not to engage with the media when it came to Jackson. Attempts by tabloid reporters to hunt them down after that became so intrusive that they were driven from their home for months. When they went off grid, media outlets instead began offering tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars to anybody who was prepared to say they’d seen him behave inappropriately with young friends like Brett Barnes.

Ever since then, ugly, graphic sexual allegations about Jackson and Brett have been published in books, magazines and newspapers and have been broadcast by trashy tabloid TV shows. Rarely, if ever, has anybody sought to fact-check the stories – nor have outlets ever really seemed to care when Brett explicitly refuted them. But for almost three decades, he chose to bite his tongue rather than engage with a media industry that seemed to have its own agenda.

In 2019, Brett – by then happily settled down with his wife and their young children – had his peace shattered by a reality TV show called Leaving Neverland. Strangers on the internet began contacting him to warn him that the show included his name and likeness and strongly insinuated that Jackson had sexually abused him – something nobody involved in making the show had seen fit to inform him of. He immediately contacted its maker, HBO, to strenuously deny the claims and request that they be removed. HBO told him to get lost and the show was sold all over the world, for consumption by millions of people. 

Since then, Brett’s world has been turned upside-down. Aggressive journalists have shown up on his doorstep and told him lies to try to trick him into giving them interviews. He has been harassed and trolled on a constant basis for three years by anonymous social media accounts, accusing him of being a liar, an enemy of abuse victims and a shill for a child molester. 

After three years of relentless abuse, defamation and invasion of his privacy, Brett decided it was finally time to speak out. On May 14th, 2022, he granted Charles Thomson a world exclusive, no-holds-barred interview. No question or topic was off limits. There was only one platform he was prepared to let broadcast it: The MJCast.

For the first time ever, he spoke in depth about his relationship with Jackson, starting from the very beginning and explaining how it evolved over almost 20 years – from witnessing first-hand the 1993 police raid of Neverland Ranch, to testifying at Jackson’s 2005 criminal trial, and all the way up to his final conversation with Jackson just days before his death. Along the way, for the first time ever, he had the opportunity to give unequivocal answers to the many allegations which had been published and broadcast about him over the years – a subject which caused him to become emotional on more than one occasion.

The conversation is being released on June 13th, 2022 – the 17th anniversary of the verdicts in Jackson’s 2005 criminal trial.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Additional Links
• Charles Thomson’s article “One of the Most Shameful Episodes In Journalistic History“.
• #TheMJCast133: Vindication Day Special With Carol LaMere
• #TheMJCast103: Vindication Day Special with Larry Nimmer
• #TheMJCast081: Vindication Day Special with Aphrodite Jones
• #TheMJCast058: Vindication Day Special (Pirates in Neverland: The Michael Jackson Allegations)
• #TheMJCast033: Vindication Day Special with Scott Ross
• #TheMJCast010: Vindication Day 10th Anniversary Special with Tom Mesereau

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

On this first regular news episode of Season 8, Q and Damien Shields join host Elise Capron and Charlie Carter. It’s an old-school MJCast reunion, chock full of good ol’ fan chat around the latest news in the world of Michael Jackson. The team discusses updates on MJ: The Musical, Kingvention, the must-watch YouTube series “Beyond The Saturday Sun”, new(-ish) music from Jermaine Jackson, and, for their main discussion topic, dive into the controversy around the Estate’s handling of the 40th anniversary of Thriller. The team also wants to wish Jamon Bull and his amazing wife, Li, the best of luck as they prepare to welcome their second child. Go #TeamBull!

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Discussion Topics
• MJ The Musical earns ten Tony nominations, and will go on tour in 2023. The opening song has been released via streaming.
• Kingvention is back.
• Manu Bezamat’s docuseries, Beyond the Saturday Sun, has been released on Youtube.
• “New” single from Jermaine Jackson, Save Tomorrow, releasing June 3, 2022.
• It’s the year of Blood on the Dance Floor 25!
• The Estate’s Thriller 40 launch, and response to fans. Plus, fans create their own visions for #Thriller40 packaging.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay Bad!

Marcos Cabotá, film director and massive MJ fan, joins Jamon Bull, Elise Capron, Charlie Carter, and John Cameron to discuss his new documentary film, Sonic Fantasy. Currently debuting at film festivals around the world, Sonic Fantasy tells the story of iconic sound engineer and long-time Michael Jackson studio collaborator, Bruce Swedien, and the making of the Thriller album. The team discusses how Marcos rose up in the world of film, challenges and triumphs around making his documentary, what it was like working with Swedien and other people featured in the film, and his amazing stories as a long-time Michael Jackson fan, who got to meet the King of Pop many times.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter and Jamon Bull.

Additional Links
• Sonic Fantasy documentary website. (As of our recording, the film is currently screening at film festivals and will be available on streaming services later this year.)
• John Cameron’s Musicology podcast.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Brad Buxer, Matt Forger, and Brad Sundberg join host Jamon Bull for a very special episode in remembrance of the late John Barnes. From Barnes’s early work with Jackson at Hayvenhurst, to deep-dive discussions around technical recording aspects and some of their collaborative works like the brilliant song “Another Part of Me”, Matt and the two Brads take you inside the studio. Not only did Barnes and Jackson share a deep friendship, but also a unique artistic partnership that resulted in musical masterpieces that will be enjoyed by fans forever.

John Barnes was a force in the music industry for over 50 years, having worked with an extensive list of music icons, from The Miracles, to Marvin Gaye, Lionel Richie, Celine Dion, Diana Ross, and, of course, the King of Pop. His work with the Jackson family started in 1976, and he connected with Michael Jackson in 1982. Barnes and Jackson’s meeting would launch a long and productive professional, creative, and personal relationship that would last decades. The two owned a company together, called Experiments in Sound, and John became a central part of Michael’s creative team. Early on, Barnes worked on the Jacksons’ “Victory” album, and worked extensively on “Captain EO”, including creating sounds for the film and co-writing the song, “We Are Here to Change the World”. His work with the synclavier was considered revolutionary, and was a massively important part of his recording work with Michael Jackson.

During the “BAD” album recording, Barnes worked daily at Hayvenhurst, alongside Bill Bottrell and Matt Forger. While often unfairly dubbed “The B Team”, and noted for creating demos, while Quincy Jones and Bruce Sweden did the main work on this album, the reality was that the Hayvenhust team was central to the creation of the album, producing nearly final versions of many of the songs, such as “Smooth Criminal” and “The Way You Make Me Feel”.

Barnes would also go on to have roles on Jackson’s later albums, as well, including “Dangerous”, “HIStory”, and “Blood on the Dance Floor”. He continued his work with Jackson through the very end of his career, even going to Bahrain in 2006 to work on the still-unreleased charity single, “I Have this Dream”.

Barnes, who passed away after a long illness on March 19, 2022, was not only an amazing musician and visionary, but he was passionate about humanitarian issues. This was a driving force in his close relationship with the King of Pop, and included important creative work, such as co-writing the song, “We Are The World”, which raised $50 million internationally to end hunger in Africa. He was full of genuine passion for his art, sometimes at the cost of not getting the credit he deserved. In this incredible discussion, Barnes’s colleagues and friends share memories and unique stories about him and the moments which made him a true icon.

The MJCast is deeply appreciative to our special guests on this episode, and sends our condolences to John’s family and friends. The world will not be the same without him.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Guests
• Brad Buxer, who worked with Michael Jackson for 20 years, from the “Dangerous” album onwards through “Invincible”, and who became one of Michael’s closest production, music, and songwriting collaborators. He was also Musical Director for both the Dangerous and HIStory World tours. He has a close personal relationship with Michael into the final years of Michael’s life.
• Matt Forger, who worked with Michael Jackson starting with the “Thriller” album, where he was credited as a technical engineer, and continued to work on just about every project Michael did through the rest of his life. He also played a central roll in “Captain EO”. In addition, Matt is well-known for his many years of studio work with the Japanese superstar Yuming.
• Brad Sundberg, who was Michael Jackson’s Technical Director and studio engineer for 18 years, starting as an assistant on “Captain EO”, and also designed and built the extensive sound and lighting installations at Neverland. These days, Brad runs the seminar series, In the Studio with MJ, with events held around the world.

Additional Links
• John Barnes’ official website.
• Articles on the passing of John Barnes by Music Radar, MJWorld and MJVibe.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

The team is back for Season Eight of the The MJCast! Host Jamon Bull is joined by Charles Thomson, Charlie Carter, and Courtney Stribling and Cuzin Kam (co-hosts of the Janet Jackson podcast, Janet Today, Janet Tomorrow, Janet Forever) for a Roundtable to discuss the recent multi-part documentary series, JANET JACKSON. In this in-depth, lively chat, the guys and gals dissect their thoughts on pluses and minuses of the series, from the promos, to the rare footage, to representations of Janet, Michael, as well as other Jackson family members, and much more.

The MJCast team has a great season planned. Thank you for joining us!

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Additional Links
• 10 things we learned about Michael from the Janet Jackson documentary
• Links to listen to Janet Today, Janet Tomorrow, Janet Forever podcast

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Elise Capron, Jamon Bull, Charlie Carter, Charles Thomson and Taj Jackson join forces to celebrate the holidays and reflect on this past year… Welcome to The MJCast’s annual Christmas Special!

Before getting into the bulk of the discussion topics, Jamon breaks the wonderful news that he and his wife Li are expecting Baby #2! The MJCast sends a special congratulations to Jamon, Li and Olivia.

The crew then discuss loads of news updates and developments in the world of Michael Jackson, including a new Jackson 5 music video, never-before-seen Dangerous album cover concept art and “MJ: The Musical” reviews. Conversation then shifts to looking back on the year that was, some of Taj’s unique stories and options MJ fans have when they want to respond to Twitter ‘blue ticks’ who drag Michael.

We would like to give a special thank you to the incredibly professional and hard working Charlie Carter for editing Season Seven of our podcast. Also, thank you to our amazing listeners for all your support throughout the year and hope that you enjoy our episodes coming up in Season Eight! Happy holidays, #MJFam!

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Discussion Topics
• The Jackson 5 Christmas song “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” has received a new animated music video from Motown.
• Aerial photos of Neverland with new rides have surfaced.
• Mark Ryden has shared never-before-seen early concept art for the Dangerous album cover.
• Polo G has released an original song and video that’s a tribute to Michael Jackson’s Smooth Criminal.
• “MJ: The Musical” review roundups. What seems to be the consensus? New York Times review. Bobby Huntley II review. Show’s cancelled now due to COVID.
• 2021: The year that was
• ‘Blue ticks’ that drag Michael. Should we call them out or starve them of attention? James Hall of The Telegraph tweeted this. Seany and Annika at MJInnocent called it out publicly through quoting it. Andy Healy expressed an alternate response, that of starving the journalist of attention. What’s the right thing to do? Call things out, or not?

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Released in 2001, Invincible was the seventh adult, solo studio album from Michael Jackson. Having released HIStory and Blood on the Dance Floor in uncharacteristically quick succession, Jackson had then largely retreated from the limelight for four years, appearing only at a handful of awards ceremonies and benefit concerts between 1998 and 2001.

Anticipation in the fan community was high. Appearing at the World Music Awards in 2000, to be honoured for his unparalleled success in the music industry, Jackson had teased in his acceptance speech: “You ain’t seen nothin’ yet.” But whether the eventual album lived up to Jackson’s hype has split fans for the past two decades.

Invincible would be released in 2001 to a lukewarm critical reception, with many reviewers saying the man dubbed the King of Pop for his trendsetting career was now reduced to following trends instead, bringing in younger artists and lending his vocals to their work. With just two entirely self-penned songs on the 16-track album, Jackson seemed to be something of a passenger on his own album.

With his physical appearance attracting more interest than his art, and coverage of the album’s release unfortunately coinciding with the biggest news event of the century – the 9/11 terror attacks – the album charted well upon release but quickly sank, receiving little promotion from either Jackson or his record label.

By summer 2002, artist and label were locked in a vicious battle, with Jackson accusing Sony of sabotaging the project as part of a racist conspiracy, and the label countering that Jackson’s career had been killed by allegations of child molestation.

So what is Invincible’s true place in Jackson’s legacy? Did it deserve the critical pasting it received? Have the songs aged well? Would they have fared better if they had been released at a different time? In what is bound to be one of the most controversial episodes in this podcast’s history, our panellists (Jamon Bull, Shawn Shackelford, James Alay, John Cameron and Charles Thomson) ask and answer these questions, and many more.

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Participants
• Jamon Bull
• Shawn Shackelford
• James Alay
• John Cameron
• Charles Thomson

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

In 2001, the who’s who of the entertainment industry poured into New York’s Madison Square Garden arena to celebrate the career of Michael Jackson. To mark the 30th anniversary of his solo recording career, Jackson had agreed to appear at two concerts – his first on US soil since January 27th, 1989, and his first with his brothers since 1984.

Produced by Jackson and long-time friend David Gest, the shows would kick off with all-star salute to the King of Pop. Icons taking to the stage to pay tribute included Gladys Knight, Ray Charles, Destiny’s Child, Luther Vandross, Dionne Warwick, Whitney Houston and Marlon Brando. Then Jackson and his brothers would reunite to perform their greatest hits, before Jackson closed out the show with some of his most famous solo songs. The rights to the concerts were eventually sold to CBS and it was aired during prime time all around the world. Ratings reached 30 000 000 people in the US alone. Jackson and Gest generated a fortune in profits. The concerts should have been a legendary affair, but all was not well behind the scenes, and this potentially historic event turned into a damp squib.

So what went wrong? Was it a complete write-off? And how do these two shows – the last concerts Michael Jackson ever performed – factor into his legacy? Our roundtable guests get together to ask and answer these questions, whilst sharing their own memories and reflections on the shows.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Participants
• JamonBull
• Charles Thomson
• Vernay Lewis O’Neal
• Charlie Carter
• Shawn Shackelford

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

In this regular episode, host Jamon Bull is joined by returning guests Rickey Alexander and Velo Kristina for a big update on news in the world of Michael Jackson. They discuss a restored version of the HIStory album teaser, several upcoming films related to Jackson, including Marcos Cabotá’s greatly anticipated “Sonic Fantasy”, updates on James Safechuck’s lawsuit, a newly released photo of MJ, a new article on Jackson’s time in Bahrain, and much more.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Discussion Topics
• A restored version of the HIStory album teaser is coming.
• A new Netflix documentary on Michael Jackson is imminent.
• The second trailer is out for Jin Chohan’s “Trial By Media” has been released.
• Marcos Cabotá’s has released a trailer for his documentary “Sonic Fantasy”.
• James Safechuck’s lawyer has filed a late appeal.
• Billy Porter and Lang Lang have paid tribute to Michael Jackson at the Global Citizen concerts.
• Glen Ballard is interviewed on working with Michael Jackson.
• A new photo of Michael Jackson, shot by Greg Gorman has surfaced.
• Moonwalkers documentary, now titled The Three Michaels, finally has a theatrical screening date coming up soon.
• A Tokyo baseball team is collaborating with the Estate on merchandise featuring MJ and their team mascot.
• A new article has been released on MJ’s post-trial year in Bahrain.

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

In this regular episode, host Elise Capron is joined by Q, as well as returning guest, Bjørn Hannibal. After Elise drops some huge news, the trio discusses a mega-roundup of news in the world of Michael Jackson. From MJ birthday events around the world, updates on Estate projects (such as MJ One, the MJ Broadway musical, and merch drops), a BAD World Tour audio leak, the passing of Luther Jackson and Walter Yetnikoff and a teaser for the Janet Jackson documentary, this episode is jam packed! Plus, Elise moderates a discussion around the topic of Michael Jackson and the LGBTQIA+ community, and whether we should view MJ as a queer icon.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Discussion Topics
• Lots of great MJ birthday events happened all around the world, including in Las Vegas, Kingvention’s Burn This Disco Out party in London, the return of Brad Sundberg’s In The Studio events, and much more!
• The Estate has released Neverland merch.
• The full casting has been announced for the Broadway MJ musical, as well as additions to the creative team. (Though, apparently they have notyet found their “young Michael”.)
• Taj Jackson’s heartfelt GoFundMe update.
• The full soundboard audio of the entire BAD Tour show in Los Angeles, 1989, has been released on YouTube.
• Questlove shares never-before-seen Triumph tour footage on his Instagram page.
• MJ Halloween party coming.
• The Netherlands HIStory statue is still looking for a new owner.
• Michael Jackson-inspired K-Pop music video.
• Michael Jackson’s uncle, Luther Jackson, passes away.
• Walter Yetnikoff died.
• Tito’s new album, Under Your Spell, has been released, and it’s great.
• Janet Jackson has released a teaser for a documentary about her life, coming January 2022 and announced a new album and single.

Main Discussion Topic
• Michael Jackson and the LGBTQIA+ community.

Additional Links
• Paris and Willow chat in a Red Couch interview.
• Who is Paris Jackson? Facebook series.
• GoFundMe for a victim of Hurricane Ida, who lost his home.
• Two great essays about rumors around MJ releases, and how to “be a part of the solution, not the problem!”

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD!

Christian James Hand joins host Jamon Bull and regular guests Andy Healy and Velo Kristina for a special interview about Christian’s amazing history in the music industry, his work dissecting Michael Jackson’s multitracks via his “The Session” events on Instagram and live in-person, his deep appreciation of music production, and much more.

Hand is a British-born, LA-based musician, music producer, radio personality, and voice-over artist. In his years in the music industry, he has worked in A&R at the British hip‐hop Label, Gee Street Records, as a Stager Manager for major tours, managed a live music venue, and was a radio production assistant and then a radio DJ. During his time at Sirius/XM’s “Faction” channel and “Alt Nation”, he created the hugely popular ”Naked Vocals” segment, which would lay the foundation for his future musical dissection work, including “The Session” events. His methods would continue to evolve through his radio-personality positions on different stations, ultimately leading to popular live music breakdown events called “The Sound Sessions at Swing House”, as well as the radio show “If You Like That” on 100.3 The Sound.

Today, Hand’s 20-minute sessions can be heard on Monday mornings at the legendary 95.5 KLOS, and live on Instagram most weekdays. On Wednesday nights, he has a tradition of featuring Michael Jackson songs. Hand has also produced music for many different artists and groups over the years, including The Mowglis, Alexa Melo, The Jet Morgans, The Absolute, Analog Saint, and Mark Mackay.

Hand has a unique, deep appreciation for music production, is incredibly well connected in the world of music (Gregory Phillinganes, Jimmy Jam, and others are regulars at his Instagram events), and brings fascinating insights into Michael Jackson’s work as an artist in the studio.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Additional Links
• Christian James Hand’s website, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebookpages.

Sponsors
• Roberta Martin Interiors. Full-service interior design based in Pasadena, California. Founded and run by a long-time Michael Jackson fan!
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

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If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

In this regular episode, host Jamon Bull is joined by co-founder of The MJCast, our very own Q, as well as first-time guest, mega-fan Shawn Shackelford. The guys cover loads of updates in the world of Michael Jackson, including the Estate’s hiring of Prince Jackson, the return of MJ fan events, including MJ One in Las Vegas and the launch of MJ: The Musical, an honor for Jackson from the Black Music and Entertainment Walk of Fame, updates on Ron Burkle’s purchase of Neverland, and much more. Plus, Shawn tells his amazing fan story, which includes getting to see Michael Jackson in concert during the Triumph, Victory, and Bad tours!

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Discussion Topics
• The Jacksons release two music videos for “Can You Feel It” remixes, the “Kirk Franklin Remix” and “Jacksons x MLK Remix”.
• The Black Music and Entertainment Walk of Fame inducts Michael Jackson.
• Cast changes and merch have come for the MJ: The Musical.
• Events are coming back! MJ One in Las Vegas returns on August 19th, with events planned around Michael Jackson’s birthday. Brad Sundberg has just had his first in-person In The Studio event since COVID started.
• Ron Burkle discusses his plans for Neverland.
• Lil Nas X pays homage to Michael Jackson in a recent performance.
• Prince Jackson officially joins the MJ Estate.
• Michael Jackson has been certified as the biggest selling solo artist of all time
• Tito Jackson new song “Love One Another” is out. The album “Under Your Spell” will be out August 6th.
• Paris Jackson will appear on two episodes of American Horror Stories, a spinoff of the American Horror Story series.
• John’s Cameron’s new episode “Janet Jackson (1996 – 1998)”.
• Shawn Shackelford’s fan story.

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Carol LaMere joins hosts Jamon Bull and Charles Thomson for a special interview as part of the team’s series of Vindication Day episodes, which recognize Michael Jackson’s acquittal from false child molestation allegations on June 13th, 2005.

In this discussion, A-list hair stylist Carol LaMere reveals how she was hired by Michael Jackson after his Pepsi burn, to help create unnoticeable hairpieces that covered his injuries. Jackson’s fear of people finding out he required the hairpieces meant Carol became a secret member of his entourage, travelling separately from everyone else and staying in different locations. The job saw her travel the world with Michael and work on video shoots like “Black or White”, “Remember The Time” and “In The Closet”.

LaMere soon became a regular visitor at Neverland. She witnessed and became involved in – and was ultimately a recipient of – Michael Jackson’s philanthropic work with sick children and their families.

LaMere’s presence in Jackson’s world made her a first-hand witness to behind-the-scenes goings-on in both the Jordan Chandler case and the Gavin Arvizo case. She knew the Arvizos so well that Gavin’s sister used to stay in her house – a relationship which saw her added to the defense witness list. She provided bombshell testimony in two investigation reports.

After the trial, LaMere travelled with Jackson to the Middle East, England and Ireland – a period about which she shares her sometimes sad and shocking memories. She also shares her thoughts on Jackson’s death, and recounts their final conversation around two weeks earlier.

In this fascinating and powerful deep-dive chat, LaMere also speaks frankly about friction in Jackson’s camp, Jackson’s love of practical jokes, and how she is still mourning his death 12 years later.

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Sponsors
• MJGivingTree. Authentic jewelry designer recreations of Michael Jackson items made for fans by a loyal fan. Handmade by MJGivingTree with love and a little Michael magic.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

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If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Aileen Medalla joins host Elise Capron to discuss her memoir published earlier this year, The King of Pop and I: A Filipino Teacher’s Travel Memoir with Michael Jackson and His Children. Aileen’s book covers the years 2005-2008, when she served as the Traveling Homeschool Teacher for the Prince, Paris, and Bigi while the Jackson family lived in Bahrain, Europe, Asia, and the United States. In addition to being an amazing journal of her travels all over the world, Aileen’s memoir is a unique look into the Jacksons’ personal life. Because she taught and worked with Jackson children on a daily basis, Aileen’s reflections on their family dynamics, Jackson’s role as a father, and their day-to-day lifestyles gives fascinating insights into the true Michael Jackson—what he was like as a down-to-earth human being, not just as the King of Pop.

Additional Links
• The King of Pop and Iwebsite, with links to purchase the book.
• Aileen’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

Sponsors
• Karl Marx Does the Washing Up: The Podcast. A philosophical, comic podcast made by two MJ fans which navigates the “complex world of truth, romance, hell and housework.” Give them a listen.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD!

In this regular episode, host Jamon Bull is joined by regular guest Charles Thomson, Friend of the Show Casey Rain (creator of the Prince-focused YouTube channel, The Violet Reality), and first-time guest, mega-fan Velo Kristina. The team deep dives into all the latest news around the King of Pop, including upcoming auctions of Michael Jackson items, a big update on Wade Robson’s case, recent interviews with Teddy Riley, Michael Bush, and Greg Phillinganes, Howard Weitzman’s passing, re-releases of The Jacksons’ albums, and much more. Plus, the group digs into the question of whether the Prince or Michael Jackson Estates have handled each icon’s legacy most effectively.

Discussion Topics
• The Jacksons continue their run of reissued albums with “The Jacksons Live” on vinyl.
• The Jacksons have released “Can You Feel It (Jacksons X MLK Remix)” as a promo single for their Triumph reissue.
• Remixed by Nick* has released “Give It Up (Nick* Stripped Mix)”.
• A new illustrated anthology, Michael Jackson in Comics, has been released.
• The Sessions Live on Instagram, breaks down MJ tracks in live weekly sessions.
• Howard Weitzman, Michael Jackson’s lawyer, dies at 81.
• Michael Jackson’s bronze statue collection from Neverland up for auction.
• Rob Swinson is auctioning some of his Michael Jackson items.
• Michael Jackson tapes and other items are up for auction.
• New interviews. Teddy Riley, Michael Bush and Greg Phillinganes.
• Wade Robson’s case against Michael Jackson has been dismissed.
• The Violet Reality recently released a video on Prince’s legacy five years after his death. How does the Prince Estate’s new project compare to the Michael Jackson Estate’s efforts?

Post Show
• The Prince vs. Michael Jackson debate.

Sponsors
• Crack Corn. Delicious premium puff corn.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

It’s been far too long since The MJCast had a good old fashioned Q&A episode, so the team is bringing this format back with host Jamon Bull and everyone’s favorite Brit, Charles Thomson! The guys received over 80 questions, with no topics barred, covering everything from their favorite songs, to fan experiences, to insights on legal proceedings. We so appreciate all of our MJ Fam who submitted questions (and wish we could have gotten to each and every question), and hope you enjoy this fascinating, deep-dive chat about all things MJ!

“The Pale Prince of Peculiarity”
1) Can you tell us what you know about MJ‘s relationship with Sony? What went wrong and why did he hate them so much at the end of his life? It‘s a really confusing topic for me.

Annie
2) If the planet was about to be blown up by an evil super villain, and the only way to save humanity was for Charles Thomson to perform either Heal The World, The Lost Children or I Just Can’t Stop Loving You – which one would he choose?

Neil G
3) There have been reports of a MJ movie in the works. Is this a good idea? If so, who should play Michael?

Tom Rujitermann
4) Do you think it’s possible that Taj’s series could change the minds of many people? Or do you feel Michael has been so dehumanised that people will never be able to see past what the media portrays?

Curtis Roberton
5) Invincible is Michael’s last album and probably worst in eyes of a lot of people. But for me, it’s one of his best. I have friends who aren’t MJ fans and I have shown them the Invincible album and they think it’s amazing and start downloading the album, almost like a lost MJ album. What positives can you say about Invincible?
6) During This Is It, there are moments where MJ looks fragile and ill, like the start of The Way You Make Me Feel. Later on, when MJ is in the blue, he looks on top form, same with They Don’t Care About Us–he looks great and on form? Why is this?

Gillian Rice
7) How often does Charles listen to Michael’s music? And what are his top 3 songs?

Wendy
8) Can you tell us what you know about all of the aftermath of Michael’s injuries during the 1999 concert? Like medically, how was he treated, how did people around him respond to it, and more?
9) Do you think Dan Egghead Reed Is going to make Leaving Neverland 2?

?
10) Do you like John Branca, and tell me all the reasons why not?

Bob
11) Were you surprised that the court dismissed the James Safechuck lawsuit?

Jonny
12) Any idea why MJ used to let Prince have his hair bleached at such a young age? Always wondered and unsure if it has ever been answered. Very young age to colour a child’s hair. Maybe the freedom of expression he allowed his children behind closed doors?

Bella
13) Are you ever going to do the estate roundtable episode you’ve been teasing us with for years?

Genevieve Castello Branco
14) Marcos Cabota’s documentary “Sonic Fantasy” is completed, but he’s facing legal issues to release it. Any details about such legal issues, which probably involve Bruce Swedien’s estate?

Bob
15) Off the Wall or Purple Rain?

Captain Blackthorne
16) Which song has Michael’s most impressive vocal performance? My vote it for Earth Song or Billie Jean.
17) Do we know any details about the “lost classical album” that Michael worked on before his passing?

Marni Cochrane
18) Dear Charles, what is the most interesting or surprising thing you learnt about MJ, his life and/or his work while working on the documentary with Taj and other collaborators, which was totally new to you?

Anita
19) How do we manage that Jamon and Elise will be invited to the next Halloween party hosted by the Jackson family?

Dane Thomson
20) What has shaped your views on life throughout your years?

“Oprah”
21) If MJ Estate approached you with an olive branch and ask for your help and input, what are the top 5 list of things that you like to immediately work on and do?

“Billie Jean”
22) Which MJCast special episode is your favorite why?

Constantinos
23) Top 5 guests who you would love to interview in the near future?
24) Would you like one day to create your own visual documentary to combine all your special interviews?

MJJQ
25) Out of each of Michael’s full length solo albums (OTW, Thriller, Bad, Dangerous, HIStory and Invincible), could you choose 1 track which is your personal favourite, and on the other hand, an unreleased demo or outtake song which could replace your least favourite track on each album – with short explanations as to why.

“James Brown”
26) Does anyone know what happened to the Vogue documentary that had a preview on YouTube and why it was never released?
27) How do you feel about supposed friends of MJ such as Quincy, some of the Ross family, etc, still openly supporting Oprah? Or do you think Oprah is just so big that it’s career suicide to come out against her?

Kieran Kibble
28) What are your top 3 MJ short films and why? Thanks for all the work you guys do in supporting Michael’s legacy.

Ben
29) What motivates you both to still remain active in the MJ fan community all these years later?

Dorsa
30) If you had to choose one documentary/book that captures the whole essence of Michael Jackson, which one would it be?

Suzie
31) If you had a time machine and could make two trips to the past, one to any MJ performance and one to any moment in Michael’s life where you could use your time to speak with him personally (and maybe warn him of certain things), which moments in time would you choose?

Debi T
32) How do you as hosts of The MJCast who have interviewed several members of the Jackson family feel about reports coming from the bodyguards, Randall Sullivan, and others that Michael’s family were a bunch of grifters during his life and after his death?

Mira Kontar
33) What are the best arguments to make when discussing Michael’s status as the greatest entertainer? I see weak arguments like he makes people faint or he can just stand there and entertain us, which doesn’t hold when discussing skill-set. I have my own answer, but I’d like to hear yours.

Dexter Williams
34) Between catching snippets of the Chauvin trial on television, and seeing discourse and comments about it on social media, I’ve wondered what effect having filmed MJ’s 2005 trial would have had. Do you think, in hindsight, that filming/broadcasting the 2005 trial on television would have hurt or harmed MJ’s reputation as far as the general public is concerned?

Shawn Clarence
35) If you had access to Michael’s vault and could release ONE Definitive Project, what would part/parts of Michael would you showcase and why?
36) Jamon, if you could sit in the studio and watch Michael record a song what would it be?

Additional Links
• The MJCast 063: Q Q&A
• The MJCast 069: C Q&A
• The MJCast 074: J Q&A
• The MJCast 099: Leaving Neverland Q&A

Sponsors
• Thank you to our anonymous listener, whose donation to The MJCast has allowed us to give back to Children International.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

The MJCast is delighted to announce that its first show after International Women’s Day 2021 is also its first ever all-female episode! Vibrant duo Talitha Linehan and Talin MacArthur join host Elise Capron for a special episode about Talitha’s recently published memoir, A Real-Life Fairy Tale: Michael Jackson and Me, as well as both of their amazing fan experiences, and the final years of Michael Jackson’s life. Talitha is a writer originally from County Cork, Ireland, and has lived in the United States since 2005, currently residing in Los Angeles. Her memoir details the 13-year period during which she traveled all over the world to see Michael, including seeing 17 HIStory Tour concerts, meeting him all over the world, attending the 2005 trial, visiting Neverland Valley Ranch, and becoming a daily presence around him during his final years. Talin, who lives in Pasadena, California, is a close friend of Talitha’s, and was part of the small group of fans who saw Michael Jackson frequently from 2008-2009. Talin had her own amazing experiences as a young fan, as well, having attended the 1993 Super Bowl, and the filming of “Will You Be There”. This in-depth discussion gives amazing insights into what it was like to be a true mega-fan and “follower”, into Michael Jackson’s relationship with his fans, and provides invaluable perspective on The King of Pop’s state of being during his last, tragic days—a time which, for many fans, is still shrouded in mystery and conjecture.

Additional Links
• Purchase Michael Jackson and Me here.
• Talitha’s Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook pages.
• Talin MacArthur’s Instagram page.
• This Is Not It testimonies.

Sponsors
• Custom Paint by Joel845. Joel, our favorite Desert Viking, creates incredible custom motorcycle fuel tanks, and more! Plus, check out his brand new merch shop.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD!

We’re back for Season Seven of the The MJCast! In this regular episode, hosts Jamon Bull and Elise Capron are joined by mega-fan Rickey Alexander, who was most recently on the podcast for the #History25 Roundtable. In this in-depth discussion to kick off 2021, the team digs into loads of news in the world of Michael Jackson, including the sale of Neverland Ranch, a new podcast by Brad Sundberg, two compelling new MJ books, fan community drama, Superbowl chat, expanded re-releases from The Jacksons, a frustrating John Branca interview, updates on the Cascio Case, and much more. The MJCast team is excited for the season to come. Thank you for joining us!

Discussion Topics
• Neverland Ranch has been sold to Ron Burkle.
• Brad Sundberg has launched his In The Studio podcast.
• We copped some heat on our stance regarding RazörFist and John Ziegler.
• MJNewsDigest has featured The MJCast in his ‘Exposed’ series.
• Talitha Linehan has released her book called ‘Michael Jackson and Me’.
• Aileen Medalla has released her book called ‘The King of Pop and I’.
• Is The Weeknd’s video for ‘Save Your Tears’ a reference to Michael Jackson?
• The Jacksons have released expanded digital versions of their eponymous album, ‘Goin’ Places’ and ‘Destiny’, as well as a vinyl-only re-release of ‘The Jacksons Live’, available for pre-order on Amazon.
• Chinese company PureArts is releasing a crazy-expensive Michael Jackson figurine.
• Tom Mesereau is a featured guest on the legal podcast “Hashing Out the Law” with Arash Hashemi.
• Possible book and documentary coming from Hamid Moslehi?
• New interview with John Branca.
• Michael Jackson Chart Data Year In Review.
• Rickey Alexander’s new essay on Medium, ‘What is Michael Jackson’s Magnum Opus?’

Additional Links
• Rickey Alexander’s Twitter page.

Sponsors
• Audible – Great audiobooks. Great a free one-month trial (including one free audiobook) and help support the podcast by using our custom MJCast promo link.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Taj Jackson, Charles Thomson, and Q join forces to celebrate the holidays and reflect on this past year… Welcome to The MJCast’s annual Christmas Special!

Before getting into the bulk of the discussion topics, Taj breaks the incredible news that he and his wife Thayana are expecting Baby #2! The MJCast sends a special congratulations to Taj’s whole family.

The guys then discuss loads of news updates and developments in the world of Michael Jackson, including a new book by Brice Najar, the launch of a virtual edition of Kingvention, updates with Vera Serova’s lawsuit as well as the Estate’s lawsuit against HBO, a new version of the online documentary ‘Loving Neverland’, and a new film project by Jin Chohan. Plus, Taj goes into detail about progress and plans for his documentary project, ‘The Truth Runs Marathons’. This episode is full of amazing fan and Jackson Family chat, reflections on the highs and lows of this past year, and hopes for 2021.

Also, while Jamon and Elise are not able to be on this episode, they give huge thanks to Q, Charlie, and Taj for making this episode possible and for wrapping up Season 6 of The MJCast. Thanks, guys!

We also want to thank our listeners for all your support throughout the year and hope that you enjoy our episodes coming up in Season 7! Happy holidays, #MJFam!

Discussion Topics
• Brice Najar’s ‘Book on the Dance Floor: Let’s Make HIStory in the Mix’ has been released.
• Big news! Taj Jackson and his wife, Thayana Sco Jackson, are expecting their second child!
• Kingvention went online this year with KV:Global, a three hour global Michael Jackson convention including interviews with Jean-Marie Horvat and Bill Bottrell.
• Vera Serova’s lawsuit against Sony Music and the Michael Jackson Estate has received support from key consumer protection groups.
• HBO has lost their appeal against the #MichaelJackson Estate in the ongoing ‘Leaving Neverland’ lawsuit.
• ‘The Truth Runs Marathons’ update from Taj. You can help support his documentary here.
• An improved version of ‘Loving Neverland’ with non-automated narration has been released. Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 & Part 4.
• Jin Chohan is raising money money for a documentary in support of Michael’s innocence called ‘Trial By Media: The Michael Jackson Story’.

Sponsors
• Audible – Great audiobooks. Great a free one-month trial (including one free audiobook) and help support the podcast by using our custom MJCast promo link.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

TJ Jackson joins Jamon and Q (with an appearance by Cousin Kam from The Janet Jackson Podcast) for a very special episode to discuss TJ’s new solo EP, “Damaged”, his impressive music career and a range of stories on his uncle Michael and his amazing family.

TJ is the third son of Tito Jackson and Dee Dee Martes, and the nephew of Michael Jackson. As part of the group 3T, TJ and his brothers rocketed to super-stardom as teenagers, selling over 3.5 million copies of their debut album, “Brotherhood”, which just celebrated its 25th anniversary. The brothers have performed all over the world, appeared on television, and starred in a Lifetime docuseries, “The Jacksons: Next Generation”. As a solo artist, TJ debuted his single and music video, “Insomnia” in September of 2019. This release marked the start of a trilogy of projects, including his EP, “Obsession”, released in March of 2020, and his newest EP, “Damaged” which came out in November of 2020. His solo records mark a departure from the sounds of the work he did with his brothers, presenting a style that is all his own. In addition to being an amazing musician, TJ also hosts the Family Rules Podcast with his wife, Frances Jackson.

In this chat, TJ shares incredible stories of growing up as part of music royalty, creating records with his brothers, working with his uncle, the King of Pop, and his impressive adult solo music career. Plus, they go deep into his experience as a Jackson since the release of Leaving Neverland and what Michael was like as a father. TJ also talks about dealing with past issues such as the AEG trial, the Cascio tracks, fulfilling his duties as legal guardian for MJ’s children, and more.

Additional Links
• TJ’s main website and Linktree to all social media pages and music channels.
• TJ and Frances Jackson’s podcast and Youtube series, The Family Rules.
• 3T albums on Apple Music and Spotify.
• The TJ Jackson Official Facebook Group.
• The Dee Dee Jackson Foundation.
• “The Power of Love” radio show/podcast.

Sponsors
• Crack Corn – Delicious premium puff corn.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Q returns to The MJCast as a guest host for the first time in Season 6, joining Jamon for a massive news and discussion episode! The original MJCast teammates catch up on loads of updates in the world of Michael Jackson, including the sad news of Bruce Swedien’s passing, a couple of (good!) Estate projects, a mountain of recent leaks, new remixes, podcasts, a new fan forum, and more. Plus, the guys discuss updates on the Safechuck court hearing, music from TJ and Paris, and they get into a good old fashioned Estate rant. This episode is sure to please long-time listeners of the show, and introduce newer listeners to the in-depth fan chat for which The MJCast is known.

Discussion Topics
• Bruce Swedien has passed away at age 86.
• Michael Jackson has again earned the position of the year’s highest paid deceased celebrity.
• The Michael Jackson Estate premiered a limited-run of ‘Ghosts’ in high quality on its YouTube channel during Halloween.
• The official Michael Jackson website’s FAQ has been updated.
• They Don’t Care About Us (2020) has premiered on YouTube.
• James Safechuck court case dismissed.
• Musician Daeshard illegally shoots music video at Neverland…and gets caught.
• New music from TJ Jackson and Paris Jackson.
• Greg Spinks has launched his long awaited ‘Behind The Mask’ forum.
• The Leaks have been out of control!
– Someone Put Your Hand Out
– Man In Black
– Turning Me Off
– Don’t Believe It
– Smooth Criminal (1985 Demo)
– Give In To Me (Work Tape)
– I Like the Way You Love Me (Acapella)
– Faces
– Childhood (Work Tape)
• Some great MJ remixes have come out
– Michael Jackson – Beat It (Groovefunkel Remix)
– Michael Jackson – Smooth Criminal (Nick* Rad Remix)
– Michael Jackson – Thriller (Nick* Freestyle Funk Remix)
– Michael Jackson – 2 Bad (Nick* Deluxe Long Version)
– Michael Jackson – Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’ (SWG Extended Dance Mix)
– The Jacksons – Can You Feel It (SWG Extended Mix)
– Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (SWG Extended Mix Video Version)
• New podcasts
– The Genesis of Thriller
– MJNewsDigest
– Der Michael Jackson Podcast
– HIStory in the Mix: The Reboot
– The Black Jackson Estate

Sponsors
• Instacart – Convenient, inexpensive, and reliable same-day personal shopping for U.S. and Canada-based #MJFam.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Michael On!

Travis Payne, one of Michael Jackson’s most significant, long-time collaborators, joins host Jamon Bull for a very special interview. A world-renowned choreographer, director, and producer, Payne worked closely with Jackson beginning in the “Dangerous” era, all the way until Jackson’s tragic passing in 2009. Over the course of his career, Payne has been honored with the MTV Video Music Award for Best Choreography four times, and is the recipient of a wide range of other nominations and awards, many of them related to his work on seminal Jackson projects, such as “Dangerous”, “Scream”, and “Ghosts”. Payne toured with Jackson on the “Dangerous” and “HIStory” World Tours, and was involved in many special performances as well, including the phenomenal 1995 MTV Music Video Awards and the ill-fated HBO Special, “One Night Only”. In 2009, Payne was brought on board as Choreographer for “This Is It”, working directly alongside Jackson and Kenny Ortega to conceive of the much-anticipated comeback concerts. After Jackson’s passing, Payne was extensively and intimately involved in the making of the “This Is It” film, serving as its Associate Producer.

In this in-depth discussion, the guys chat about Payne’s experience working with the King of Pop, choreographing some of music history’s most iconic videos, and getting to know MJ well over the course of many years. Plus, Payne gives frank insights into the “This Is It” era—a time which still remains shrouded in mystery and controversy for many fans.

Additional Links
• Travis Payne’s Twitter, Instagram and website.

Sponsors
• Crack Corn – Delicious premium puff corn.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Pez Jax joins host Elise Capron for a discussion about his new book, The Story of HIStory, as part of The MJCast’s continued celebration around #HIStory25. Pez is a long-time Michael Jackson fan, a Marketing Director, writer, and book author based in London. He runs the media group, Sixteen11, with Sebastian Mille, and, through that company, has produced and published a range of Michael Jackson products for fans, including Iconic Magazine and his first book, Off The Wall: From The Beginning – Brick by Brick. In 2019, Pez wrote the article “Why you should play Michael Jackson’s music more now than ever before”, which received international print and television press coverage. Pez is also co-founder of the well-known Michael Jackson Fan Club, MJVibe.com, and has been hosting the London-based Michael Jackson fan convention, Kingvention, for several years. The Story of HIStory is Pez’s newest book, which published in both English and French editions this summer.

In this discussion, Pez and Elise chat about the creation of his book, the joys and challenges along the way, some of the best and most surprising tidbits he discovered, and the lasting legacy of Michael Jackson’s “HIStory” album. They also discuss Pez’s history as a fan, what it’s like to be a content creator in the fan community, the truth around a certain controversy, and they speculate on the future of MJ fandom.

Additional Links
• Pez Jax’s Twitter and Instagram pages.
• MJVibe’s website and Instagram page.
• Sixteen11’s website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages.
• Kingvention’s website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages.
• Purchase Pez Jax’s The Story of HIStory here, available in both English and French editions.

Sponsors
• Instacart – Convenient, inexpensive, and reliable same-day personal shopping for U.S. and Canada-based #MJFam.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD!

Eddie Garcia joins host Jamon Bull for an incredible discussion in celebration of the King of Pop’s 62nd birthday. A world-renowned dancer, choreographer, and director, Eddie exploded onto the scene at just 16 years old, when he was hired to dance in several of Janet Jackson’s most iconic music videos. A year later, Michael Jackson hand-picked Eddie to join his team, bringing him on to perform in short films such as ‘Smooth Criminal’, ‘The Way You Make Me Feel’ and ‘Speed Demon’. Eddie also spent five years traveling the world as a principal dancer for the ‘Bad’ and ‘Dangerous’ world tours, and appeared on stage for Jackson’s Superbowl performance. In addition to working with Jackson, Eddie has collaborated with a wide range of superstars over the years, including Jennifer Lopez and Paula Abdul, and has appeared on stage and screen. He also directs a summer camp for young dancers.

In this deep-dive chat, the guys discuss Eddie’s memories of being hired by the King of Pop, appearing in some of the most famous music videos ever made, performing on stage with Jackson, and much more. Eddie also drops a couple of exclusive stories that are sure to get even the most hardcore Michael Jackson live performance aficionados speculating.

Additional Links
• Eddie Garcia’s Twitter, Instagram and Facebook pages.
• Camp Me’s Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube pages and website.
• Be sure to check out MJ Radio‘s original interview with Eddie in Spanish. We’re proud to have partnered with MJRadio for this dual language release in honor of Michael’s birthday.

Sponsors
• Instacart – Convenient, inexpensive, and reliable same-day personal shopping for U.S. and Canada-based #MJFam.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Charles Thomson returns to The MJCast, joining Jamon Bull for a massive catch-up on everything the investigative journalist has been up to since the release of Leaving Neverland a year and a half ago. The duo discuss Charlie’s whirlwind year, from winning national journalism awards in the UK while simultaneously losing his job, being hired for a podcast, and unexpectedly becoming the central narrator in Danny Wu’s 1993 allegations documentary, Square One. They cover back-and-forth trips to Los Angeles (featuring a cameo by Helen Mirren!), restaurant-hopping with Tom Mesereau, parties at Hayvenhurst, an HBO court hearing, and much more. And finally, Charlie talks about being hired for a Larry Nimmer documentary, and launching his own true crime podcast, Unfinished: Shoebury’s Lost Boys. It’s been an epic year for Charlie, to be sure.

Discussion Topics
• Leaving Neverland has won a BAFTA.
• Charlie’s amazing year.

Additional Links
• Charlie’s Twitter and website.
• Charlie’s new true crime podcast, Unfinished: Shoebury’s Lost Boys.
• Danny Wu’s documentary, Square One. (You can read The MJCast review of the film and see photos from the LA film premiere here.)

Sponsors
• Audible – Great audiobooks. Great a free one-month trial (including one free audiobook) and help support the podcast by using our custom MJCast promo link.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
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• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Damien Shields returns to The MJCast as a guest host, joining Elise for a jam-packed news and discussion episode! Damien is a long-time Friend of the Show, author, and Cascio tracks expert. The duo catches up on loads of updates in the world of Michael Jackson, including several new MJ-related books, a new podcast, updates on MJ One and the Robson/Safechuck hearings, Paris Jackson’s debut EP, lots of recently leaked MJ songs, amazing new content for fans from John Cameron, Marcos Cabota, Brad Sundberg, ?uestlove, Single White Glove—and much, much more. Plus, Damien and Elise discuss the Estate’s approach to HIStory25.

Discussion Topics
• New footage from the Bad World Tour live in Los Angeles 1988 has leaked.
• Single White Glove’s Heal the World video has premiered.
• MJFanGirl and The Detail have teamed up to release a new podcast called Michael Jackson Unspun. The latest episode is with Michael Bush’s assistant.
• Pez Jax’s book ‘The Story of HIStory’ is now available for pre-order, and will be officially released on July 20.
• Brice Najar has announced his new book, ‘Blood on the Dance Floor: Let’s Make HIStory in the Mix’.
• Dwayne Swingler, Neverland Valley Ranch supervisor has released a book.
• MJ Memorial Day Live happened on Facebook on June 25th, hosted by the King of Pop Events group. It featured interviews with Travis Payne, Jimmy Locust, Steven Paul Whitsitt and others. You can see the whole series of interviews here. 
• New Facebook group for online events and fan chat: Michael Jackson Book Club.
• MJ One is currently set to re-open in Las Vegas in early August. Meanwhile, Cirque du Soleil is over $1 billion in debt, and is seeking bankruptcy protection. They have laid off 3,500 employees, including Blue Man Group. However, all their non-touring shows plan to re-open as soon as they are allowed to do so.
• Marcos Cabota’s Sonic Fantasy documentary gets a trailer.
• Archival interviews of Michael Jackson’s children have been released on YouTube channel ‘Jacksonology‘, apparently created for a cancelled documentary about MJ.
• Soundflowers’ docuseries, ‘Unfiltered: Paris Jackson and Gabriel Glenn’, streaming on Facebook through the summer. Plus, their debut EP has been released.
• Sia and Paris drama.
• Danny Wu’s Square One has been released on Amazon Prime.
• Charles Thomson has released his first podcast, called Shoebury’s Lost Boys, which details his decade long investigation into one of Britain’s most serious child sex abuse allegations cover-ups.
• Robson and Safechuck trial update. As predicted, Dan Reed was there filming.
• The Jacksons’ video for Can You Feel It gets released on YouTube, as well as Michael Jackson’s HIStory teaser.
• Original versions of some 2007 Ebony photoshoot pics have leaked.
• ?uestlove has streamed three massive Jackson family DJ experiences here, here and here. Full “Quarantine Live DJ Sets” playlist available here.
• John Cameron is about to release his latest episode of #JCsMusicology, which will focus on the Off The Wall era.
• Brad Sundberg has shared his ‘7 Songs, 7 Stories’ series on YouTube as a way to honour ‘MJ Week’ during COVID-19 restrictions.
• So…it’s been a bit leaky lately. See this channel.
• HIStory25 got the Dangerous25 treatment.

Additional Links
• Damien’s website.
• Damien’s excellent book, Michael Jackson: Songs & Stories From The Vault.

Sponsors
• Audible – Great audiobooks. Great a free one-month trial (including one free audiobook) and help support the podcast by using our custom MJCast promo link.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

Connect with Us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD!

Twenty-five years ago, Michael Jackson released what is arguably his most important, and certainly his most personal album, HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I. Emerging from the tumultuous mid-90s era, when Jackson was treated more harshly than ever by the media, the album is an explosion of his rage and frustration. It is the most raw of any of his studio work, addressing the media, race relations, and tapping into his personal struggles in a way he never had before. Despite the fact that the album was reviewed negatively by some critics (primarily those who had written him off after the 1993 allegations), it would go on to become one of the best-selling albums of all time, and the bold messaging of the songs would endure. Ultimately, these iconic tracks feel more relevant than ever today.

To celebrate twenty-five years of this masterpiece, The MJCast brings together a roundtable panel of Michael Jackson experts and mega-fans to discuss this landmark album, analyzing it track-by-track, discussing the short films, and exploring its relevance in the 1990s, and today. This discussion is hosted and moderated by James Alay, and includes panelists Rickey Alexander, Maria Paalberg Musoga, John Cameron, and Samar Habib.

Participants
• James Alay, host/moderator.
• Rickey Alexander, author of “A Track-By-Track Synopsis of Michael Jackson’s History 25 Years Later”.
• Maria Paalberg Musoga, creator of a short documentary on the #BlackLivesMatter protests in Sacramento, California.
• John Cameron, creator of the #JCsMusicology podcast.
• Samar Habib, creator of The Michael Jackson Academia Project.

Ad Breaks
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• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Steven Paul Whitsitt joins host Jamon Bull (and launches The MJCast’s #HIStory25 celebration) for a deep-dive discussion about Steven’s incredible experience as the King of Pop’s personal photographer. Growing up near Detroit, the music of Motown had a huge influence on Steven’s life from an early age and shaped his career as a photographer and photojournalist. He has shot album covers, music video stills, and concerts for many iconic musicians, including, Steve Miller, Bruce Springsteen, Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews Band and Willie Nelson. Steven has also published his work in a wide range of internationally well-known magazines. But his most memorable music industry experience was as Michael Jackson’s personal photographer. During their years working together, he shot publicity portraits and stills for the “Scream, “Childhood” and “You Are Not Alone” videos, as well as single covers. Michael entrusted Steven to work with him on capturing a range of events, including private moments. Plus, The Official Michael Jackson Opusfeatures Steven’s photography.

The guys discuss how Steven got into photography, how he came to work with Jackson, what it was like during the HIStory studio sessions and the “Scream” video shoot, as well as Jackson’s personal photography preferences, Steven’s insights into Jackson as a person, and much, much more.

Additional Links
• Steven Paul Whitsitt’s main website, fashion website, Facebook, and Instagram.
• Selected, professional-quality Michael Jackson photography available for a limited time through Steven’s online shop, in collaboration with MJ Music Day. Please note: These photos are formatted for European standard sizing. If you are based anywhere other than Europe and are interested in purchasing a photo, contact Steven in advance so that he can adjust the print size.

Ad Breaks
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• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

Connect with us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD!

Howard Bloom joins host Elise Capron for her first solo episode to discuss his time working as Michael Jackson’s publicist in the 1980’s, during the Victory era. Though Bloom grew up as full-blown science nerd who knew nothing about popular music, he fell into the music world through magazine publishing, and, in 1976, founded what would become one of the biggest PR firms in the music industry during the ’70s and ’80s. He helped build or sustain the careers of more than 100 rock and roll icons, including Prince, Bob Marley, Joan Jett, ZZ Top, Bette Midler, Billy Joel, and, of course, Michael Jackson.

Howard and Elise discuss his fascinating and unusual journey into music, how he came to work with the Jackson family, and dig deep into Howard’s philosophies around what made Michael Jackson so seemingly magical—a concept Howard describes as “finding the gods within”. They also chat about Howard’s new book, which goes even further into his many great stories, Einstein, Michael Jackson, & Me: A Search for Soul in the Power Pits of Rock and Roll.

Additional Links
• Howard Bloom’s website, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
• Buy Howard’s new book here.

Ad Breaks
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• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

Connect with us
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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Damien Shields returns to The MJCast as a guest host, joining Jamon for our first regular news and discussion episode of Season 6! Damien is a long-time Friend of the Show, author, and Cascio tracks expert. The fellas catch up on loads of updates in the world of Michael Jackson, including the Estate’s #HealTheWorld2020 video, newly leaked MJ vocal snippets, an awkward snafu by Teddy Riley, developments around Dan Reed, good news for Tom Mesereau, a beautiful film-tribute to Michael Jackson’s artistic legacy, and more. Plus, Jamon and Damien ask the question: Could HIStory 25 happen?

Discussion Topics
• Cirque du Soleil temporarily suspends MJOne due to COVID-19.
• French documentary Lettre d’amour à Michael Jackson premieres on YouTube.
• Teddy Riley claims that a previously released vocal cover of the song Joy, sung by MJ vocal impersonator Marcus Williams, is actually a demo he recorded with Michael.
• Michael Jackson’s Privacy acapella has leaked.
• Rodney Jerkins allegedly plays an unreleased Michael Jackson snippet called Rampage during a live stream event.
• Previously unreleased footage of Michael Jackson surfaces at gottahaverockandroll.com
• Dan Reed successfully gains access to film future court proceedings involving Wade Robson and James Safechuck.
• Tom Mesereau is now working as Special Counsel for John Branca, co-executor of the Michael Jackson estate.
• So #HealTheWorld2020 happened.
• Is HIStory 25 going to be a thing?

Additional Links
• Damien’s Twitter page, website, and book, Michael Jackson: Songs & Stories From The Vault.
• Dan Villalobos’ website, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Orbits EP on Apple Musicand Spotify.

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If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD!

Welcome to Season Six of the The MJCast! In this special episode, Jamon Bull puts the focus back on the music with an interview featuring Kevin Dorsey, who worked with Michael Jackson for twenty-five years as his Vocal Director, Assistant Music Director and one of his background vocalists. In addition to lots of positive stories, we deep dive on two of the most topical issues amongst fans, Michael’s ever increasing reliance on lip syncing and the mysterious months leading up to his death. This is a topic Kevin is particularly well placed to speak on as he was suddenly and inexplicably let go by This Is It’s tour promoters after completing the task of assembling the live band. Kevin also goes into detail about his early career, how he initially came to work with the King of Pop and what is was like to tour together.

The MJCast team is excited for the season to come. Thank you for joining us!

Additional Links
• Kevin Dorsey’s Facebook page

Ad Breaks
• Crack Corn – Ridiculously delicious puff corn
• The MJCast Shop

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

It’s that time of year when Jamon, Q and Elise come together to celebrate the holidays and reflect on the year that was…it’s The MJCast’s annual Christmas Special!

The team wraps up Season Five (a season filled-to-the-brim with major highs and lows) with discussion of developments in the world of Michael Jackson, including updates on the MJ biopic, the Estate’s 2020 MJ Broadway musical, as well as a bizarre and potentially very negative MJ-inspired musical told from the perspective of his glove, and much more. The MJCast Correspondents also chime in with news on charity efforts, Janet Jackson, the Jackson family, and more.

It’s been a whirlwind year, and a tough one for many in the worldwide Jackson fan community. And yet, as the trio revisits clips from Season Five Specials and reflects on the past year, it is clear that this has also been The MJCast’s best season ever, with incredible guests, and a real sense of love and community.

This is Q’s final episode as a regular host of The MJCast. Q has been integral to the identity of the show since its inception, and he will be missed. Jamon and Elise send their love and thanks for all of Q’s contributions as well as his friendship. And not to worry, listeners: Q will appear on The MJCast in the future, just less regularly. There will be Q-rants to come in 2020 and beyond!

We want to thank our listeners for all your support throughout the year and hope that you enjoy our episodes coming up in Season 6! Happy holidays, #MJFam!

News
• A Michael Jackson biopic is reportedly in the works, from Bohemian Rhapsody producer Graham King.
• A very strange stage musical, For the Love of the Glove, supposedly based on Jackson’s life, is opening in Los Angeles in January.
• Ephraim Sykes has been cast in the MJ role for the upcoming Broadway show, “MJ: The Musical.” (Skykes’ recent interview in Rolling Stone.)
• The French MJ fan lawsuit against ‘Leaving Neverland’ has been postponed due to strikes.
• The Game recalls the time when Michael Jackson called him to work on a collaboration with 50 Cent.
• The MJ Estate settles with Disney over ‘The Last Days of Michael Jackson’.

Season Five Highlights
• Episode 097 – Bill Whitfield Special
• Episode 100 – Brad Buxer Special
• Episode 101 – Taryll Jackson Special
• Episode 103 – Vindication Day Special with Larry Nimmer
• Episode 104 – June 25th Special with Jenny Winings
• Episode 107 – Allan ‘Big Al’ Scanlan Special
• Episode 109 – Michael Trapson Special
• Episode 110 – Thriller Night Special with Paul Black and Adam Green

Main Discussion Topic
• A year in review.
• The MJCast’s official interview with Q, as he reflects on five seasons as co-host.
• What’s to come in Season 6.

Finds of the Week
• Jamon – New rehearsal footage from MJ’s 30th Anniversary concert.
• Q – ‘I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus’ gets a brand new official video.
• Elise – MJ-inspired art by Miguel Wilson, including a very cool Thriller shirt available for sale.

Correspondent Appearances
• Steven Hodges of MJFFC (Charity Correspondent)
• Janneke van der Linden of Jackson Source (Jackson family Correspondent)
• Courtney and Kam of Janet Today, Janet Tomorrow, Janet Forever podcast (Janet Jackson Correspondent)
• Charles Thomson (Legal Correspondent)

Ads & Music Breaks
• Michael Jackson – Off The Wall (Nick Party People Remix)
• Michael Jackson – Another Part of Me (Regrooved Fire Remix)
• Michael Jackson – BEATiCURE (The King of artPOP by Robin Skouteris)

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Michael On!

The holidays are upon us, which means it’s the most wonderful time of the year, and an excellent time to hang out with MJ mates! In this regular episode, Q and Jamon have invited some of their friends on board for a good ol’ MJ fan hangout.

Marni Cochrane, Dane Thomson, Dr. Raj Zaman, and Bjørn Hannibal join the guys for a discussion about everyone’s fan stories, how they have coped through the events of this year, how Michael has impacted and changed their lives, and how they think Michael should be remembered.

What’s better than hanging out with MJ mates and sharing great MJ moments and memories? The MJCast hopes you enjoy this ultimate fan chat!

Participants
• Q
• Jamon
• Marni – Jamon’s long time MJ friend and Friend of the Show, who is a lifelong fan who became obsessed while watching the video for “The Way You Make Me Feel” in ’87. She got involved in the online MJ community in 2006, became a moderator on MJNO in 2007, and created Max Jax in 2008 with 5 fans from the UK. She even won an award for “the official #1 Fan Australia of Michael Jackson” in 2008! Marni is always attending MJ events and saw The Jacksons twice this past year, as well as seeing Janet Jackson once.
• Dane Thomson – Jamon’s recent MJ mate has been a Michael Jackson fan since the age of 4, and is now a musician and fellow whistleblower of the infamous “Cascio tracks”.
• Dr. Raj Zaman – Q’s local fan friend, who has been a lifelong MJ fan since watching a bootleg VHS copy of the “BAD Tour In Yokohama”. He is currently training to be a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon after being directly inspired by Michael’s humanitarian work to make a positive difference in the world.

Main Discussion Topic
• MJ mates, new and old hangout! Fan stories, coping with Leaving Neverland fallout, how MJ has inspired our lives, and reflections on how Michael should be remembered.

Finds of the Week
• Jamon – Michael Jackson MTV 1995 early rehearsals
• Q – Best Selling Music Artists 1969-2019
• Dane – @christophervg3 Instagram account
• Marni – CrowdDJ app,which lets you choose your favourite songs in your favourite places. Available in the Apple App Store, and Google Play Store.
• Raj – Godfrey videos on Michael Jackson. Here, here, here, here and here.
• Bjørn – Thriller x Kali Kali Aankhen, Swara Dance Bollywood Remix

Additional Links
• Marni’s Instagram
• Dane Thomson’s Instagram and Twitter
• Dr. Raj Zaman’s Instagram and Twitter
• Bjørn Hannibal’s Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and his I Magiens Fodspor podcast on Apple Podcasts.

Ad & Music Breaks
• Dane Thomson – Smooth Criminal (Instrumental Acoustic Cover)
• Michael Jackson – Take Me Back (Regrooved by Parker)
• Dane Thomson – I’ll Be There (Instrumental Acoustic Cover)

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

In this regular episode, Jamon and Q are joined by Friend of the Show Jason Garcia, co-host of MJRadio, the Spanish-language Michael Jackson podcast. It’s been a busy fall, and the trio has lots of news to discuss related to Michael Jackson and the Jackson family. The guys chat about an upcoming documentary focused on MJ’s artistic legacy, next summer’s launch of the official Michael Jackson musical, the Estate’s (misguided) release of a 10th Anniversary This Is Itpackage, the HBO documentary about the Apollo Theatre, and more. For their main topic, Jamon and Q tell discuss seeing Janet Jackson live in Australia, and then have some big news to announce about changes at the The MJCast next season.

This episode also includes updates from The MJCast correspondents Charles Thomson (Legal Correspondent) and Janneke van der Linden (Jackson Family Correspondent).

Follow Up
• MJRadio
• Square One happened

News
• Another MJ documentary is on the way, this one focused on his artistic legacy.
• Elton John calls Michael Jackson ‘mentally ill’ and a ‘disturbing person’ in his new book.
• Lil Kim sort-of samples MJ in her new single.
• The official Michael Jackson musical has a new name (“MJ The Musical”) and will open July 6th at the Neil Simon Theatre in New York.
• The Michael Jackson Estate and Sony Music release their first product since Leaving Neverland, a 10th anniversary edition of This Is It.
• Michael Jackson was, yet again, the top earning dead celebrity of 2019.
• HBO’s “The Apollo” documentary excludes the Jackson 5 as a significant part of the venue’s history.

Main Discussion Topic
• Q and Jamon’s Janet experiences!
• Next steps for The MJCast.

Additional Links
• MJRadio on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram.

Ad & Music Breaks
• The Jacksons – Your Ways (Groovefunkel Remix)
• Janet Jackson – Escapade (Nick* Maui Sunset Mix)
• Michael Jackson – Beat It (Mute Mutant Remix)

Correspondent Appearances
• Charles Thomson (Legal Correspondent)
• Janneke van der Linden of Jackson Source (Jackson Family Correspondent)

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD!

Happy Thriller Night 2019! It’s the podcast team’s favorite night of the year, and, in this special episode, Q leads a deep dive discussion into Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and “Ghosts” short films. He’s joined by regular guest and film editor Paul Black, as well as first-time guest Adam Green, who is a well-known filmmaker, podcaster, and expert on the horror genre.

The guys discuss Paul and Adam’s professional backgrounds in the film world and how Jackson inspired aspects of their careers, as well as their memories of first seeing “Thriller” and “Ghosts”. Paul Black wins, as usual, for having the best “Ghosts” fan story ever! Their main discussion topic examines these two iconic short films from a filmmaking perspective: Paul and Adam compare filming techniques, cinematography, special effects, the different tone of each film, horror genre elements, what sort of impact they might have if they had been made today, and much more. For anyone interested in looking at these films from a technical perspective—or simply with the love of horror, or of Michael Jackson’s amazing creativity—this chat will be your ghoulish dream-come-true.

The MJCast wishes all of our listeners a great Thriller Night!

Additional Links
• Episode 025 – Right Place, Right Time… Black Magic
• Episode 034 – June 25th Special feat. Kevin Stea
• Episode 041 – Michael Jackson & Prince Roundtable (Part 1)
• Episode 042 – Michael Jackson & Prince Roundtable (Part 2)
• Episode 066 – Long Hair Don’t Care
• Adam Green’s Twitter, Instagram, official website, IMDB page, and iTunes page for his podcast, The Movie Crypt (co-hosted with Joe Lynch and Adam’s adorable Yorkie sidekick, Arwen).
• Adam’s interview with Taj Jackson about Leaving Neverland on The Movie Crypt podcast.
• Frozen (2010) movie trailer
• Hatchet (2007) movie trailer
• Holliston (2013) Season 2 commercial
• Jack Chop (2009) short film
• Monster Problems (2016) short film
• Scary Sleepover – Episode 2.4 “Slash”

Ad & Music Breaks
• Michael Jackson – 2Bad (Ghosts Mix)
• Michael Jackson – Ghosts (Early Version)
• Michael Jackson – Thriller 35th Anniversary (SWG Remastered Extended Mix)
• Scandroid – Thriller (Official Lyric Video)

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Michael On!

Q and Jamon are joined by fellow Michael Jackson podcaster and host of Moonwalk Talks, Jankins, to interview none other than Dean Morrow Jr., AKA Michael Trapson. Trapson, has been releasing music since as early as 2010, but more recently has evolved into a director, videographer, filmmaker and recording engineer who brings to fruition creative reinterpretations of Michael Jackson as a southern rapper and trap artist, called Michael Trapson.

Catchy, hilarious, provocative and featuring incredible production value, Trapson has released a range of hit songs and videos that have garnered millions of clicks on YouTube. From ‘Billie Jean and I Dab’ and ‘If Michael Jackson Was a Mumble Rapper’ to his most recent work, the phenomenal ‘Trapson EO’, the MJ community just can’t get enough.

In this episode, Q, Jamon and Jankins interview Trapson about his fascinating career, Michael Jackson’s history and the reality of being a Michael Jackson fan in 2019.

Additional Links
• Michael Trapson’s YouTube Channel, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter
• Jankins’ Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
• Moonwalk Talks Instagram and Twitter
• Moonwalk Talks on the web, Apple Podcasts and Spotify
• The Jacksons Victory Tour Live in Dallas (1984)
• Trapson EO
• Michael Trapson’s New Vibration (Pepsi Remake 2019)
• TriumphTour1981’s Instagram

Ad & Music Breaks
• Michael Trapson – All This Glow
• Michael Trapson – Go Go EO
• Michael Trapson – New Vibration

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

In this regular episode, Jamon and Q catch up on lots of big news in the world of Michael Jackson and the Jackson family. They discuss museum exhibitions at the Smithsonian and in Finland, an updated edition of Joe Vogel’s Man in the Music, Raymone Bain’s much-hyped press conference, new videos from Michael Trapson, and great new music from TJ Jackson. For their main topic, they discuss three(yes, three!) new Michael Jackson documentaries: Chase the Truth, The Lies of Leaving Neverland, and Square One. Plus, special guest Danny Wu, YouTuber and creator of Square One, joins the guys for a chat about his film.

Follow Up
• Michael Jackson birthday events roundup.
• The MJCast Legal Correspondent Charlie Thomson is now working for Taj Jackson as the writer of his allegations documentary.
• 50 Cent and Sheryl Crowe.
• Thanks for giving me a heart attack, Janet!
• Rotterdam Walk of Fame.

News
• An iconic Michael Jackson photograph is featured in the Smithsonian traveling exhibition, Men of Change: Power. Triumph. Truth.
• The Michael Jackson – On the Wall official Estate and National Portrait Gallery exhibition is now showing at the EMMA – Espoo Museum of Modern Art in Helsinki, Finland.
• Raymone Bain’s press conference.
• Michael Trapson drops full 36-minute Trapson EO tribute film, as well as the Michael Trapson New Vibration 2019 Pepsi remake.
• Joe Vogel’s updated, revised and expanded edition of Man In the Music has now been released and is available for purchase. Published by Vintage Anchor Books, links for purchase are available here, or with free shipping via Book Depository.
• TJ Jackson releases his first solo single, Insomnia, available now across streaming services: Spotify, Apple Music.

Main Discussion Topic
• Chase the Truth
• Lies of Leaving Neverland
• Square One, premiering in Los Angeles on September 28, and releasing worldwide on YouTube on October 5.

Finds of the Week
• Jamon – Disney Channel’s The Making of Captain EO
• Q – Legends Never Die video tribute to MJ and his fans, made by the world’s best MJ YouTube video mixer, Malc Jennings/Smooth EmJay.
• Danny –Amateur footage of MJ Live in Brunei 1996 and Billie Jean Live In Munich, Germany 1997.

Additional Links
• Danny Wu’s Twitter, Instagram and Facebook pages.

Ad & Music Breaks
• Michael Jackson – Remember the Time (Nick* Deep Mix)
• The Jacksons – Lovely One (Groovefunkel Remix)
• Michael Jackson – Smile (Piano Version) [Alternate Vocal]

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay BAD!

Q and Jamon celebrate Michael Jackson’s 61st birthday with a very special guest, Allan ‘Big Al’ Scanlan, who worked as Neverland Valley Ranch’s Director of Maintenance from 1990-2005. During that time, Big Al oversaw the grounds and attractions, including the theatre, rides and trains. He also became a close personal friend of Michael’s.

In this in-depth conversation, Big Al shares amazing, heartfelt stories about his life at Neverland, from what it took to keep the Ranch running, to his personal interactions with the King of Pop. He also discusses how the property became a place of refuge, entertainment, and hope for underprivileged children, and how Michael Jackson’s entire staff worked to make that humanitarian dream a reality.

The MJCast can’t imagine a better way to recognize Michael Jackson’s birthday than with this trip down memory lane, to the golden age of Neverland Valley Ranch.

Additional Links
• Big Al on Facebook and Twitter.

Ad & Music Breaks
• Jackson 5 – I’ll Be There (DJ Hasebe Remix)
• Michael Jackson & J-Friends – People Of The World (TheMJQuotes Edit)
• MTN South Africa – We Are The World

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Michael On!

Jamon is back after a short break, joining Q to discuss updates in the world of Michael Jackson and the Jackson family. In this regular episode, the guys chat about a wide range of topics, from the disappointing news that Leaving Neverlandhas been nominated for several Emmy Awards, to the much happier news that Michael Jackson may have a place on the “Walk of Fame” in Dubai, and the gorgeous new MJ statue which has been erected by fans in Zhengzhou, in Central China’s Henan Province. Plus, they discuss Andy Healy’s 35th anniversary retrospective article on the Victoryalbum, as well as a really fun new episode of “Moonwalk Talks” (glad to have you back, Jankins!). The team also announces upcoming MJ 61st birthday events happening around the world, and, for their main discussion topic, the dive into the question of what the Michael Jackson Estate should do next.

News
• Leaving Neverland has been nominated for five Emmy Awards.
Andy Healy drops a retrospective article on the Victory album for its 35th anniversary.
• Jankins has returned to the world of Michael Jackson podcasting with a tongue-in-cheek episode of Moonwalk Talks on Michael being a Jedi.
• Dubai’s “Walk of Fame” could soon include Michael Jackson. Vote here! (Nominations close at midnight (GST) on Wednesday, 31 July 2019.)
• Chinese fans of Michael Jackson have erected a statue of Michael and held a concert in Zhengzhou, Central China’s Henan Province to commemorate his death. Video of the event.
• Michael Jackson Birthday events: (if you know about more, be sure to share them online!)
• São Paulo, Brazil: Sunday 25 August. MJ Celebration Party on Paulista Avenue, dancing covers, tributes, games and contests. For more details, contact @DanielJackson7 on twitter.
• London, England: Wednesday 28 August (2pm-5:30pm), Thursday 29 August (11am-6:30pm), Friday 30 August (11am-6pm), Saturday 31 August (11am-2pm). At Gallery Different, “Michael: HIS_story” exhibition. Admission £3
• Las Vegas, Nevada: Wednesday 28 August. Casual fan dinner, Slice of Vegas, 7pm, paid event (you pay for your own dinner).
• Las Vegas, Nevada: Thursday 29 August. MJ Fan Meet and Greet afternoon tea. RiRa Irish Pub at Mandalay Bay, 11am, $35 per person, limited tickets.
• Las Vegas, Nevada: Thursday 29 August. Michael Jackson ONE celebration at Mandalay Bay, paid event.
• Las Vegas, Nevada: Friday 30 August. MJLive at Stratosphere Hotel Casino. Showtime 7pm. Paid event, tickets must be purchased.
• Santa Monica, California: Saturday 31 August. Private buffet-style candlelight dinner and Bad concert film screening at fan Davina Baham‘s residence. Paid event in the way of a $5-$10 cover charge to help pay for the food and drinks.
• Perth, Australia: Saturday 31 August. MJ Birthday Charity Lunch, 12-5pm, Dome café Belmont (next to the Reading Cinemas). Please bring a charity donation of a gold coin, and of course if you’re eating and drinking you’ll need to buy your own foods and drinks.
• Brussels, Belgium: In the Studio with MJ, 3 days of events! Friday 30 August (6-9pm), MJ Birthday Remix seminar; Saturday 31 August (11am – 8pm), Brad Sundberg, Brad Buxer AND Michael Prince seminar; Sunday 1 September (11am – 8pm) In the Studio With MJ 2019 seminar + The Tour of Neverland. Tickets and event details.
• Copenhagen, Denmark: Saturday, 31 August. Info here or contact @MooWalkersDK on twitter for more info if needed!
Zurich, Switzerland: Saturday 21 September. Michael Jackson Night at the Mundwerk Club. Doors open at 7pm, party and performances from 9pm (there may be a club cover charge for this). Follow @jackson_ch the Swiss MJ community twitter for more.
• Washington, DC, USA: Wednesday, 28 August. A play, “The Night Michael Jackson Died”, which “seeks to reclaim the legacy of Michael Jackson”, followed by an MJ-themed dance party. Tickets available here.

Main Discussion Topic
• What should the MJ Estate do next?

Finds of the Week
• Jamon – Michael Jackson’s You Rock My World covered By Justin Lee Schultz on a talk box
• Q – Annamaria’s amazing Michael and Janet art on Twitter and Instagram

Additional Links
• Michael Jackson, Take Two: The Footage You Were Never Meant to See

Ad & Music Breaks
• Janet Jackson – One More Chance
• Jaafar Jackson – Got Me Singing
• Michael Jackson – They Don’t Care About Us (Nick* Crook County Remix)

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!