Someone has to say this. I am shocked and appalled at the public’s reaction to Michael Jackson’s death. The almost hysterical adulation being accorded him is unwarranted. True, he was a brilliant singer, dancer and entertainer and he provided enjoyment to millions all over the world. For this, he deserves to be honored and remembered.
He was well paid, earning hundreds of million of dollars all of which and more he chose to squander on a hedonistic life style. He was a poster boy for self-indulgence-there was no indulgence in which he did not indulge. He was a poor role model for his young fans. He eschewed any substantial involvement in the struggle of his fellow African-Americans to gain their civil rights. Indeed, he took extraordinary measures to mask his race. He made little effort to use his popularity to support worthwhile causes.
Instead, he led a bizarre, reclusive existence, which he departed from only to make another record or to go on another concert tour when it was necessary to replenish his coffers-Michael Jackson, the entertainer, deserves to be honored. However, Michael Jackson, the man, does not deserve instant canonization.
Henry Pollard