Warning: This article contains discussions of child abuse that may be distressing for some readers.
A new documentary claims to showcase audio recordings of Michael Jackson, shedding light on his controversial interactions with children.
The docu-series titled Michael Jackson: The Trial is set to premiere on February 4 on Channel 4 in the UK. It explores the pop icon’s 2005 trial following his 2003 arrest, where he faced ten charges, including lewd acts with a minor, conspiracy to kidnap, false imprisonment, and extortion involving a different child. The series purports to feature previously unheard audio clips of Jackson, some of which are included in the trailer below.
Gavin Arvizo alleged that Jackson watched pornography with him before abusing him. Wade Robson and James Safechuck, both teenagers at the time, shared their experiences in the 2019 documentary Leaving Neverland, where they recounted their alleged abuse by Jackson.
The estate of the pop legend dismissed the film, labeling it as ‘yet another lurid production in an outrageous and pathetic attempt to exploit and cash in’ on Jackson’s legacy.
In 2005, Jackson was tried in court and acquitted of all charges.
Channel 4 describes the documentary as follows: “With exclusive new footage, unheard audio tapes and insights from Jackson’s entourage and law enforcement, this well-crafted and compelling series tells a tragic tale of a genius’s downfall, delving beyond the media frenzy of ‘the trial of the century’ to probe profound questions about fame, race, and the American justice system.”
The documentary features previously unheard audio where Jackson allegedly discusses his relationships with children.
In one recording, he says, “Children wanna just touch me and hug me…Kids end up falling in love with my personality. Sometimes it gets me into trouble.”
Audio clips also capture Jackson stating, as reported by the New York Post: “If you told me right now, ‘Michael, you could never see another child’…I would kill myself.”
Additional recordings are said to contain ‘very uneasy phrases and language,’ according to a source.
An insider described Jackson’s behavior as “extremely unusual and eerie,” particularly his fascination with children who were not his own.
Hearing Jackson talk about children in this way, given his history of molestation accusations, prompts questions regarding his mental health, mindset, and intentions.
“This is Michael at his most transparent, offering insight into his love for children…his obsession with being around them. These are unsettling phrases and language to hear from a single man in his forties.”
If you are affected by any of these issues or wish to speak to someone confidentially regarding child welfare, the Childhelp USA National Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-4-A-CHILD, 1-800-422-4453) operates 24/7 and is available to callers across the United States, Canada, US Virgin Islands, Guam, and Puerto Rico.