Michael Was Impressed by His Fans in Japan

Michael, during his first public appearance after winning the court case, was impressed by the huge crowd of fans. Invited to the ceremony to receive the Legend of the Century award, he showed a peace sign toward the fans after getting out of his limousine.

Wearing orange sunglasses and a black coat, as he stepped onto the stage, he briefly lost his composure.

But a little while later, the 47-year-old star thanked his fans in Japan—the country where more than 100 million copies of albums have been sold.

While accepting his award, he said: “I’m especially happy to be back in Japan, and I’m very happy to be among the Japanese people tonight. I really love them, so much.”

Mr. Jackson had previously left Bahrain on a few occasions, including going to the UK to watch a music show produced by his friend Elton John, but among all of them, his presence in Japan was the most prominent.

Japanese fans said that rumors against him do not negatively affect their opinions. Hideki Endo, 43, who was standing outside the Harajuku neighborhood stadium holding an umbrella, said: “I believe Michael is innocent and he hasn’t done anything wrong. I want him to be freed from this pressure so he can perform music again.”

His 35-year-old friend, Hideki Ani, also said he bought a ticket to wait for Michael next to the red carpet. That ticket cost him 40,000 yen (about $350) after an internet auction.

Ani said: “Of course, we came here to see Michael more than any other artist. I only praise his music and his power in dancing. I don’t care at all what the media says about his trial or cosmetic procedures.”

Many fans had come to the event without tickets after hearing about his sudden appearance the day before. One of them, Takako Kataoka, 35, who wore Michael’s 1984 Thriller tour jacket, said: “Many fans who came here today—from old to young—found out about Michael’s arrival through each other and using the internet. Even if Michael’s age is a bit high for a world tour, I hope he will perform again, and also for charity.”

His planners say he will also appear in several other Asian countries and meet business leaders. He will also visit a number of welfare centers.