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Death of Princess Diana
“UPI” (August 31, 1997) (archived)
Michael Jackson's publicist says the popular singer has cancelled a concert in Belgium 'in deference to Princess Diana.' In a statement released today by MJJ Productions in Los Angeles, Jackson called Diana 'a friend to the world' who embraced the terminally ill and disenfranchised.
Jackson said, 'The sudden loss of Diana, Princess of Wales, is one of the greatest tragedies of the millenium.' MJJ Productions Vice President Bob Jones said tonight's concert has been rescheduled for Wednesday. In his statement, Jackson joined the princess's brother, actor Tom Cruise and many others around the world in criticizing aggressive celebrity photographers known as paparazzi. He said, 'As one who has been under scrutiny the majority of my life, I speak with authority when I say that I am horrified that the paparazzi, supported by the tabloids' animalistic behavior, may be acceptable to the public. It is totally unwarranted in a civilized society.' He added, 'The world's acceptance of this practice, if continued, will accelerate tragedies of this magnitude.' The pop star extended his sympathy to Diana's family, 'especially the children, on the loss of a mother.'
Michael Jackson said Sunday the public needs to reject such aggressive tactics.
“As one who has been under scrutiny the majority of my life, I speak with authority when I say that the paparazzi, supported by the tabloid’s animalistic behavior, has become acceptable in modern society,” the singer said in a statement. “The world’s acceptance of this practice, if continued, will accelerate tragedies of this magnitude.”