Allegations against deceased musician Michael Jackson have risen to the surface once more, with the release of new two-part documentary Leaving Neverland, prompting discussions about the star and his close relationship with young boys. The film focuses particularly on Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who both claim to have been sexually abused by Michael when they were children.
Whilst Wade was obsessed with Michael's work from an early age, James was only really introduced to the singer after starring in a Pepsi commercial with him. And though the pair now say that the friendship they shared with Michael led to years of sexual abuse, that doesn't stop either of them (and indeed their mothers) from lavishing the artist with praise throughout the film.
Thankfully for the majority of us, the idea of an adult grooming a child is something we see only in fictional television shows or movies, or hear about on the news. We don't see the result of that grooming up close and in person. If the allegations (which are all vehemently denied by the Jackson family and estate) made by Wade and James are true, then this is an audience's best chance to see exactly how deep-rooted the effects of child grooming can be.
What some may find particularly interesting about this entire situation is just how far Michael's fans are willing to go to oppose those against him. Though the majority of them haven't had the opportunity to check out Leaving Neverland, they're willing to defend the singer right down to the bone. Thousands throw out accusations that both Wade and James are lying about their past with Michael, and sling abuse at anybody who may say they believe the potential victims. All this, despite never meeting the man for themselves.
Even years after Michael's death, some of his fans are unwilling to accept the notion that he could have been a paedophile, and may at times get increasingly aggressive in their arguments against those who suggest he was responsible for the sexual abuse of minors.
On Wednesday (March 6, 2019), a group of protesters gathered outside Channel 4 headquarters with signs, chanting that Jackson was innocent and attempting to shame the broadcaster for daring to air the documentary. Though only a few dozen turned up, they made sure their voices were heard and refused to even consider that the accusers were telling the truth.
This is the power of music. We see it in this case, and we also see it with R. Kelly who was recently charged with 10 counts of aggravated sexual abuse, including that of minors. We saw it during the original R. Kelly accusations (of which he was acquitted) when fans would take to the streets and turn up in court to support him, without knowing any of the facts.
Not only do some of the fans support their idols without question, but they will sometimes even feel pushed to make threats against those who don't think the reputation of such people should be untarnished. Blind loyalty and wilful ignorance can lead to some incredibly shocking outcomes. Some say that Robson's testimony as a witness for Jackson's defence during the singer's trial in 2004-05 is enough proof to show that both he and Safechuck are now lying in their accusations.
In 2013 however, Robson stated that Jackson had sexually abused him at his Neverland Ranch whilst he was aged between seven and 14. He went on to say that he had previously denied the abuse because Jackson told him they'd both go to jail if anybody found out. He also said that becoming a father and the experience of nervous breakdowns in 2011-12 provoked his change of story.
Part one of Leaving Neverland is available now on All 4. Part two airs tonight (March 7, 2019) at 9pm on Channel 4.
Tagged in Michael Jackson