The Michael Jackson Foundation and His Family Face Off

Three years after Michael Jackson’s death, some members of his family have mobilized over claims that his will is fake—against his foundation. Janet, Rebbie, Tito, Randy, and Jermaine Jackson, in a joint letter, have demanded an investigation into the will and verification that it is forged. They claim that the current foundation trustees, John Branca and John McClain, have falsely presented themselves as Michael’s chosen representatives by imposing this fake will, and that they should resign. Part of the letter reads: "In the past, we were unable to understand what is today, for us, extremely clear and obvious. This will is, without any doubt, fraudulent and fabricated. Since Michael’s passing, our dear brother, you have failed in your duties as his foundation, but you have managed very well to take advantage of a grieving mother and father and a mourning family. Before his death, our brother told us clearly that he is disgusted by both of you and does not want any involvement in his affairs after his death." The letter accuses the foundation of increasing its share of Michael’s income and claims it has cut off the hands of his mother and children from their lawful wealth. Randy Jackson, yesterday, after the letter was published on Twitter, wrote: "Yes, this letter is valid." He then added: "This is serious and will be reviewed by worthy investigators." Marlon, the most moderate member of the Jacksons, and Jackie, who collaborates with the foundation, have not signed the letter. Also Latoya, who previously called the foundation trustees the killers of her brother and had been invited to silence by Katherine, their mother, has not signed it either. In this regard, the online team of the Michael Jackson Foundation (MJ OnlineTeam) published a statement on Twitter from the foundation trustees: John Branca and John McClain: "When two years ago the Superior Court of Los Angeles, then the California Court of Appeal, and finally the California Supreme Court rejected this case (the lawsuit filed by some Jackson family members against the foundation), all doubts about the correctness and validity of Michael’s will and the selection of the foundation trustees were completely nullified. Under the supervision of Los Angeles Superior Court judge Mitchell Beckloff, the foundation trustees: John Branca and John McClain, with all their hard work, have tried to carry out their duties—protecting the trust and fulfilling their obligations to Michael—to ensure that, according to his will, no family member other than those whose names are mentioned in the will—his mother and his three children—will receive no share of his wealth. We are saddened by the recitation of false and insulting claims rooted in internet conspiracy theories, made by certain members of Michael’s family whose names are not mentioned in the will. We are especially discouraged that these claims were raised at a time when a major step has been taken toward securing the future financing of Michael’s children, and when many Michael fans—new and old—are waiting to enjoy Michael’s art through new and ongoing projects." Source: eMJey.com / the Estate of Michael Jackson