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July 3, 2009
Michael Jackson and that blond guitarist
Posted: 09:05 PM ET
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Michael Jackson rocking out with Orianthi during a rehearsal for his London comeback .
Michael Jackson rocking out with Orianthi during a rehearsal for his London comeback .

Asia Lindsay
AC360° Intern

Who is the blond female guitarist Michael Jackson dances with in the videotaped dress rehearsal for his tour - just two days before he died?

She is Orianthi Panagaris, an Australian guitarist who has recorded her own work and also played with Santana and also with Carrie Underwood at the Grammys.

She calls herself just Orianthi, and now she has been thrust into the limelight.

Orianthi has declined to talk about Jackson since his death, but here's what she tweeted:

“looking back on some wonderful memories and feeling really sad, MJ was ready and was taken far too soon, he was such a wonderful person.r.i.p”

We feel the same way, Orianthi.

98 Comments
More about: 360° Radar •  Michael Jackson
98 Comments
Rose from Muscoy, Calif   July 3rd, 2009 9:28 pm ET

Imagine how many people Michael Jackson touched. Orianthi is one of the lucky ones to work with the King of Pop. I wish that some people would stop talking bad about MJ. He was human made mistakes not so different from us normal people. While we think and talk about Michael let's not forget that he has a family and 3 children to.

Kristin Lacole Wells   July 3rd, 2009 9:39 pm ET

Mike gave the world so many great memo. We love u MJ

sara zabelnski   July 3rd, 2009 9:47 pm ET

I´m afraid he will be exploited in death as he was in life....shame on everyone....especially Joe Jackson.......

Isabel, Brazil   July 3rd, 2009 9:59 pm ET

Beautiful scene of MJ dancing with Orianthi plays guitar. Very sad and touching!

Rachelle (Michigan)   July 3rd, 2009 10:14 pm ET

THANK YOU for telling us who she is. I was going to google to find out who she is, but here is her info on AC360. Thank You Anderson!! She ROCKS!!! Her guitar playing is super-delicious !!!! I saw her on some of MJ's video's, in particular the SUPERBOWL video's on UTUBE, with wild blonde hair, which makes her stand out, in addition to her superdelicious guitar playing. Thank you for telling us who she is!!!

Rebecca Sanchez   July 3rd, 2009 10:31 pm ET

Michael's soul that was shared with his fan was a loving soul a giving soul and we will all remember and say thank you for sharing your life with the world. Only Michael was able to stop the news for a whole week, imagine, Elvis couldn't do that!

Thank you Michale,

Rebecca, Miami

ossileleandre   July 3rd, 2009 10:32 pm ET

michaeljackson was ahoroes in music no body well ever forgat about michaeljackson michaeljackson it there best inmusic i renember 1983 billie jean can out evely one in my count dance everly corn all chidl adult dancemichaeljackson mouve i mis he dipply and my preye go to is family in hes chidlls me good bless hen

Dianne Ruffin   July 3rd, 2009 10:42 pm ET

What I do not understand is if he was given this "drug" how could he have been so active on tour and during his rehearsals. After you take anesthetic drug you are like a zombie and can't really rememeber anything and it takes 24 hours to recover. People won't think about these things. And also your throat would be sore because you need breathing tubes to use the drug. Come on doctors think about the obvious if you are really doctors. They slandered his name while living and are slandering it now that he is gone. No real proof of his using it just he say she say. I still think the same about him no matter how they try to distroy his name.

R.I.P. MJ

rhonda   July 3rd, 2009 10:51 pm ET

rip mike

will miss you

lisa   July 3rd, 2009 10:52 pm ET

some great wonderful memories

tmgesq   July 3rd, 2009 10:53 pm ET

I loved MJJ so much. Seems like he had such a wonderful spirit, and everyone who worked with him have so much love and respect for him! This still hurts so much to lose this talented human being. May God bless Michael's family, especially his 3 children and give them peace. We will miss you so much, MJJ – the greatest entertainer of all time!

jb3cth   July 3rd, 2009 10:54 pm ET

I just dnt understand..yes, he was a great artist, but he was also suspected of child molestation. When does fame and money exempt one from punishment, and make everyone turn their head?? Amazing!

Sabrina in Las Vegas   July 3rd, 2009 10:54 pm ET

I remember going to my friends studio in LA and listening to them jam with some big names that would just walk in.

It is cool and fun.

I think she enjoyed working with such a talented person and this personally touched her because of it.

Monique   July 3rd, 2009 10:54 pm ET

Michael Jackson was a very secial person who the right things to say to touch our hearts. He had a beautiful spirit. Rest In Peace Michael. You are truly missed.

Sonjanita Moore   July 3rd, 2009 10:57 pm ET

My grandma and spiritual teachers always said that "to whom much is given much is expected". Perhaps MJ was one such person. Most geniuses are conflicted & deeply troubled. It's the price of genius. Poor soul. I feel bad that we are all complicit in Michael's death – we all wanted so much from him. I'm sorry Michael, R.I.P.

Marie Anne Sam - Alabang in the Philippines   July 3rd, 2009 10:58 pm ET

MJ like any of us - had his so-called 'human lapses' - but the legacy that he left us through his music is more than enough for the world to see how awesome he is as a person! Hope the negative talks about him will stop - and we should only see the 'bright side' of Michael Jackson and his music! - I love you, MJ and R.I.P. wherever you ARE! :-)

Anthony Ching   July 3rd, 2009 11:10 pm ET

Michael Jackson was known to giving unknown musicians or dancers a break doing his shows. He understands their willingness to be the very best of their talents. This would of been a great opportunity for the entire show's musicians and performers. It's sad that what was going to be one of the greatest shows on earth will never be seen by Michael Jackson fans. So sad.

Rebecca   July 3rd, 2009 11:13 pm ET

Anderson: Propofol is a powerful sedative/anesthetic used in the hospital setting only. It puts the patient in a drug induced coma. They are usually intubated, while receiving propofol because the drug can cause respiratory suppression.

There have been reports that he used propofol during his last tour. I believe this was true so he could meet the physical demands placed on his body daily which was coupled with insomnia. Can you imagine performing every other night for months to the level in which he performed. What he did right the first time, and unfortunately failed to do with this tour was he hired an anesthesiologist last time. Anesthesiologists administer this drug daily, several times a day for every surgery they are part of. They are very familiar with it.

He trusted the wrong guy with his life! He found a cardiologist who was willing to be his private MD and who agreed to administer propofol every night after his performance (and obviously even rehearsals ) so he could "sleep" and recover from the night before. He left the theater at 12:30am, went home, and "needed" his 8 hours of sleep. Dr. X who unfortunately was a cardiologist, not an anesthesiologist, administered propofol, but failed to monitor him correctly. You need an oxygen saturation probe which measures the oxygen level in your blood (this drug can cause respiratory supression). If you stop breathing your oxygen level will decrease and the monitoring device would alarm. Perhaps Dr. X didn't put on the Saturation probe? Propofol is also a weight based drug... ie it is administered in a dosage/kg of body weight/ minute of a continuous IV infusion. Perhaps he gave him too much. Respiratory arrest, leads to Cardiac Arrest!

My prediction.... manslaughter. This MD should be held accountable for administering this drug outside of the hospital setting. This is truly malpractice, Illegal, and unforgivable. I hope they hold him accountable. He didn't have to die! It's a shame.

Bumpkin   July 3rd, 2009 11:15 pm ET

Good Day....I am happy to see Michael Jackson was doing what he really loved and enjoyed on his last rehearsal. I pray that maybe this video can be used to give him the tribute in life after his death. He was a very sweet person, genuine at heart, loved children and really wanted to heal this world, this was his purpose for being here on earth, but often in this life he was mistreated lied on and his gifts and talents maybe now will finally be recognized. Michael Jackson would have loved to see the fans that truly loved him in America. May his legacy live on.....in America and all over the world.....

Kezia, NY   July 3rd, 2009 11:15 pm ET

I wish MJ had received this kind of love when he was alive... Too many people took him for granted and just looked for ways to make fun of him and make him into a freak when really he was just a human being trying to keep up with what the public demanded of him. A lot of people say they loved him but still made jokes, this is ridiculous to me... Love should be expressed and seen and heard and uninfluenced by popular opinion.
He was a talented, inventive, pioneer of music who loved and wanted to be loved back just as much. It breaks my heart to think that even with his millions of fans he felt alone and music was his only real friend.
There will never be another like him...
R.I.P. MJ, you'll be missed, you were loved.

Greenwich Diva, Greenwich, CT   July 3rd, 2009 11:22 pm ET

The ones who truly cared about MJ are not rushing to do interviews. I am happy she is not speaking to the media, the people who are claiming to love MJ are taking advantage of his death for personal and professional gain.
Shame on Joe Jackson, Jermaine Jackson and Debbie Rowe!

steven   July 3rd, 2009 11:23 pm ET

hello anderson you and larry have been doing a great job on Cnn. pls to my own point of view the Doc dat was on Jackson the day he died know alot about his died.

Kitty Williams   July 3rd, 2009 11:26 pm ET

Thank you Ms. Panagaris for your words on Michael, you said what a lot of his fans are feeling. Michael loved this earth and its inhabitants unconditionally.

Linda   July 3rd, 2009 11:27 pm ET

Michael was a great dancer. Hope there is a movie made from the rehearsals. Would pay just about anything to see it.

ANGEL   July 3rd, 2009 11:34 pm ET

" ALL i WANNA SAY IS THAT THEY DON'T REALLY CARE ABOUT US ! " -- So many meanings in that and applies to so many situations and things . I know how you must've felt Michael . Not being understood by the world . She must feel so lucky to have worked with him . What a cool experience for her , huh ?! Michael was so sensitive , that , unless you are like that also , you have nooooooooo IDEA what it feels like from the inside . Bless your soul and spirit , MICHAEL ! RIP !

A.J.   July 3rd, 2009 11:34 pm ET

It's really sad that he died. I guess this shows why you shouldn't abuse even prescription drugs.

:(

Michael - MO   July 3rd, 2009 11:36 pm ET

That concert would have been Awesome!

ANGEL   July 3rd, 2009 11:40 pm ET

ANNA NICOLE SMITH was also that way , a sensitive spirit . And she got treated badly by the world , the same way , as well . : ( Sad , very very sad .

dee simmons   July 3rd, 2009 11:42 pm ET

MJ was big, bigger than anyone really knew I think and he was taken too soon and too tradgically. The world was a better place with him in it. He will truly be missed by so many! We love u Michael!

Ana   July 3rd, 2009 11:45 pm ET

Michael will live forever and ever no matter where he is! His path in this world has put a permanent print in our hearts... Just wished all of our love,wishes, and thoughts were enough to keep him away from the long term drug abuse he put his body, starting with his mind, through.

Joe Jackson on the other hand (cold evil soul) put a vicious, deep scar in those boys hearts ... Michael survived and thrived; but I think he never felt comfortable with true love from his fans, praises, and fame. He never stopped asking too much from himself, therefore never find satisfaction no matter how much he did or how much he tried. He had to, at all times, be perfect... Never let his guard down. How can one sleep in peace like that?

Michael grew up in fear, and unwillingly, also from us, the fans! He feared to fail to provide ultimate the best to all peoples of all colors... He never had time to accept who he was in his depth and purity of his beatiful self, just the way he was.

Michael could stand in any crowd and proudly say: "I'm Michael Jackson, there is and there will never be anyone like me, and I am fearless"! – He needed to believe that himself in order to act that way... But he was so shy, and almost frighttened by everything around him ... Except when he performed ... But not even Michael Jackson could perform 24 hours a day... He too, needed to sleep! So, sleep in peace forever our King of Pop... May Michael find his

Sumit Sampat   July 3rd, 2009 11:50 pm ET

I believe Orianthi is extremely talented. MJ' s rehearsal album is really catchy. I believe it will break all records. MJ was an amazing talent. The intensity with which he performed was incredible. Like everyone, humans are not perfect and we all make mistakes and MJ was no exception. May his soul rest in peace. He will be remembered for his amazing talent and the joy he brought to people. God bless.

Julie   July 3rd, 2009 11:56 pm ET

I wish the people reporting on or featured on these news casts could show some kind of respect for Michael's family as they mourn this tragic loss. Michael gave so much to so many – why don't you focus on all the good that he did, or tried to do? He brought more happiness to the world, and to so many children in particular. I cannot imagine how much money he spent to make sure that sick or disadvantaged children had an hour, a day of happiness, or a life-saving surgery, or food... Why must we always focus on the negative?

I'm from his home state, and am only five years older than him. I literally grew up so proud that he was born a Hoosier, and I've defended him and will continue to do so until I leave this world. This wonderful person was simply too good for this world.

huckfinn28   July 4th, 2009 12:07 am ET

What about the Soldier who was captured in Afghanistan? I think we've killed the MJ thing here. How about some real news? About real heros? Who is he and what is the situation? There are so many blogs on MJ, what about a Soldiers possible last minutes?

greg ginsburg   July 4th, 2009 12:08 am ET

I would like to remember MJ for the gift that he gave the world...his music. the rest is non of our business. rip. mj.

Julia, Seattle   July 4th, 2009 12:12 am ET

It's been said so many times already that Michael's music is "the soundtrack of our lives" but it is so very fitting. I grew up loving him, my two sons did, and now my 1 year old grandson is rocked to sleep with "Man in the Mirror".

Rest–finally–in Peace, Michael.

Tessa AuClaire   July 4th, 2009 12:18 am ET

Michael touched so many people in the short life he had. I pray for Michael and for Michael's family, especially his children. You are with the angels now MJ, where you deserve to be. RIP

dee   July 4th, 2009 12:24 am ET

I was always a Michael Jackson fan he was one of the most perfect celerity in my eyes I ever followed on TV I always felt like I kinda knew or should I say felt some of the things he felt with all the emotional problems he had I would have never in my wildest dreams would I have never believed he had a drug problem I just don't understand this mess I sure he did have a messed up life childhood but I never believed any of the molesting charges or do I believe he had this bad of a drug problem and nobody wouldn't do anything to help this man ,,,a man I truly from the bottom of my heart I thought I loved everything about him sometimes all I had was a dream that he was going to come sweep me off my feet and take me away to neverland someday's that was the only thought that kept me going with my own life.and I have had a lot of demons to battle but I never turned to drugs I have shed so many tears but I would have given anything I own to in some way or some how tried to help him.. I know one thing I would not gave up on him ..cause his music never gave up on me he did so much good for this world somebody please give me a reason why ? cause~ im missing my baby~

Michelle   July 4th, 2009 12:24 am ET

It makes me sad to see all the people coming out of the woodwork, claiming things about MJ. If you had the chance to purchase a MJ's concrrt ticket, would you keep it, or return it for a refund? I personnaly would keep mine thank you

rachael weiss   July 4th, 2009 12:38 am ET

MJ looked great! Amazing duo.....I loved the last piece of his work....He will be missed.....God bless him....

Dru from MI   July 4th, 2009 12:46 am ET

The outpouring of love and admiration for MJ is a wonderful thing to see. It is so sad that so many people including some reporters are working overtime to tear him down with lies and speculations. Mj was not God, and a line from one of his songs said it best ," Im only human", he made mistakes. He devoted his life to bringing joy to us, and he may have hurt himself in the process. What does it say about all of you that are determined to destroy his name, especially when he is not here to defend himself.

Clarissa   July 4th, 2009 12:54 am ET

His music broke down so many people world wide. For those that got to perform with him (dance, sing, play guitar, etc) I know it was indescribable.

RIP Michael. You are truly missed.

Awilda figueroa   July 4th, 2009 12:57 am ET

It hurts me so much from my soul that mj is gone from this world. He was a beautiful person. Dont forget no one is perfect. I will always love u micheal I hope and pray his children will not get seperated.
R.i.p

Adina Maz   July 4th, 2009 12:58 am ET

What a shame that an absolute genius like MICHAEL JACKSON has to die in order for his greatness to be known and admited by the whole world why couldn' t this happen while he was in life, maybe that would have inspired him to fight for his life and take better care of his health.He needed to know how much he was loved , because he felt lonely , missunderstood and hurt by people.Unfortunately now it`s too late, the whole love in the world won`t bring him back and we all suffered a huge loss in my opinion the bigest one after that of Jesus Christ. May God rest his soul in peace and suround it with HIS love and grace.

SandraWI   July 4th, 2009 1:05 am ET

She rocks. I was happy to see a female guitarist kicking butt like that again. Michael knows talent when he hears it. He sounded great too.

Tracey Bonner   July 4th, 2009 1:08 am ET

I grew up listening to the Jackson 5 and Michael Jackson. I am very saddened of his death. I will miss him and remember him forever. I know that one day we will all meet again, and maybe there is a place in Heaven where we can have a big concert with Michael again.
RIP MJ.

tracey dumais   July 4th, 2009 1:19 am ET

micheal had such colassal talent, and so many have spoken of his kindness with the press and fans. he seemed so shy and yet on stage and in his videos he was this whole other persona. i hope now he at least has peace and has no idea of the havoc that he's left behind.....r.i.p micheal

Kim marino   July 4th, 2009 1:19 am ET

such talent. Shame on his father

dev   July 4th, 2009 1:34 am ET

its not right to say what his personel life was but its right to say that he was very good at the public and the people he care.

he loved his fans and freinds,

jacko is not wacko,

god may help u and rest in peace micheal,

dev

DaniSu   July 4th, 2009 2:25 am ET

Nice to know Michael had an Australian connection in his last days :)
Dani
Melbourne, Australia

RaeAnna   July 4th, 2009 3:03 am ET

Michael came to my country...Trinidad... when he was with the Jackson 5. He's huge everywhere it seems, music will never be the same. It surely is nice to know what a beautiful soul he was and how many people loved him for his great work both with the entertainment industry as well as charity. He's just one of those persons you can't help but love. After all the vicious rumours and everything he had to go through, I think it's safe to say MJ can finally rest in peace. We'll never forget him.

kim marino   July 4th, 2009 4:08 am ET

michael such talent.. lets hope his family does the right thing and doe not exploit him in death..

Ford   July 4th, 2009 8:25 am ET

Orianthi is hot and has brilliant talent as well;being late Michael's lead guitarist might be a considerable turning point for her....sad but true....
something more attractive about her is she has a masculine style especially when refusing to talk about king of pop...!

Vickey   July 4th, 2009 8:47 am ET

I luv the video.it would have been a great concert.

Liana   July 4th, 2009 9:16 am ET

Are there any news about where and when was or will be buried? Will there be a TV transmission of that moment?

richard baptiste   July 4th, 2009 9:59 am ET

Michael was the best in the music business but he was also a good entertainer. Few of us gave him credit for his tremendous work when he was alive. Now let's celebrate his death, i am convince that is the way Michael would like us to remember him.

JoAnn Devine   July 4th, 2009 10:35 am ET

Thanks Andreson and CNN for GREAT coverage! Michael was a true genious and you have portrayed him fairly and with dignity!

Jeff -CT   July 4th, 2009 12:09 pm ET

Everyone is making a big deal about Michael Jackson. A U.S. soldier was abducted in Afghanistan and we saw a 1 minute piece on the news. Let's get our priorities straight.

sherrie   July 4th, 2009 12:24 pm ET

I am very upset with the media exploting him the way they are doing, michael is and in my mind is still a very gifted and talented man, yes he left this world to soon, and I cannot stop crying because it hurts so bad, I have grown up on michael and the jackson 5 all my life and i have watched michael go from a young man to the man that he has turned out to be, and he is a gifted.They want to talk and ridicule him now that he is gone, but will not say anything good about how he made a difference to peoples lives.Not to mention that he was someone child, brother and father.It just upsets me to no end, He has not even buried yet and all they can bring up is all the negativity they can and it makes me sick.They don't know if his children is even hearing or watching all the crap that is being said about their father, the family is grieving let all this stuff go, what is wrong with you people.I bet if he was still alive none of this would even be going on, So leave it be and let his family mourn the death of their son,brother and father, they are suffering enough, and every time i turn on the tv its michael this and michael that,he was taking drugs he was doing this.Is anyone life perfect, no it is not.

sherry,costa meza,CA   July 4th, 2009 12:31 pm ET

Rebecca. Thank you for explaining this to everyone out there. I totally agree with you, and also know, that is truly what happened to Michael that night. Besides, no one can use this drug on a regular basis to get sleet . That would kill you. This cardiologist was a complete idiot, and by all means, must be prosecuted to the fullest extent. He not only killed Michael, he killed a lot of us as well. We love the greatest, and most talented musical artist of all time.

sherrie   July 4th, 2009 12:37 pm ET

Yes joAnn i must agree with you anderson did do a great job with handling the coverage of his death, the other stations such and msnbc, and hln is totally a diffrent story they have no compassion at all and it seems that at this point they don't care,and another thing is the fact that all these people that was suppose to be his friends are doing the same exact thing, what kind of friends are those, I woudn't want them in my life,MJ REST IN PEACE I love you and you will forever be in my heart.

Elaine   July 4th, 2009 1:34 pm ET

More than his extraordinary gift of music and dance, Michael Jackson exemplified and embodied a Humanitarian Spirit that we should embrace and emulate. For me,He will be remembered first as a Kind and Compassionate Humanitarian, who just so happened to be the worlds best and above all , Truly Loved Entertainer.

Elaine Scarpato

Sunita   July 4th, 2009 2:56 pm ET

A comet by the name of Michael Jackson happen to pass our Earth, only difference is
It did not crash and disappear into obscurity instead it stayed and for 50 years dazzled
The world with its magnificent movements, sound and music for our life time.
He was the Greatest Show on Earth!
Thank you God for giving us the gift of Michael Jackson. I feel blessed to be living in this
Era of such a legend.
My prayers go out to Michael’s family and all the fans around the world who believed in him.
Rest in Peace now Michael a Job well done on Earth. We will Miss you and hope to see you
In Heaven some day.

Brenda   July 4th, 2009 3:24 pm ET

I think Anderson Cooper and Larry King are doing an excellant on focusing on the life of MJ and not the negative past 12 1/2 years of his life. I do believe there is a big cover up about his death. If it is true about AEG having him insured for accidentall death his autospy well say OD. So all involved can get paid. I believe he died of natural causes. Has anyone thought to consider he may have died of Sephsis. A blood infection. It has been reported he had a cancerous tumor removed from his nose shortly before he died. Also what about a month before he died he was in the hopital for Flu like symptoms.

Regina Eche Fali   July 4th, 2009 4:04 pm ET

What i don't understand is how MJ could be so active and energetic in one breath and then be stone dead the next minute owing to drug over dose. I think there may be truth to the alligation of foul play. But who would want MJ dead? May God help us unravel the mystery. Regina

iheoms   July 4th, 2009 4:30 pm ET

Undoubtedly Michael Jackson is the greatest artist of all time ( in my opinion).
It'll be nice if we all appreciate and focus on his good points,
He remains alive in his music and his children.

iheoms   July 4th, 2009 4:31 pm ET

Michael Jackson remains alive in his music and his children.

Mustafa Abdille   July 4th, 2009 4:44 pm ET

Despite what the media says about this Legendary Icon, WE, the people of the Jackson Nation, know that this man has inspired the world. Not only through his magical voice and creativity, but also through the many acts of selflessness. He has given more to the people than any artist to date. Always encouraging people to "Heal the World" by starting with "The Man in The Mirror." To the media that is constantly portraying Michael Jackson in a negative way, I say to respect his as he told you before "Leave Me Alone." To the Jackson Family, please take good care of the children and do not let anyone take them away from the Jackson name. Give them the childhood Michael never had. more »

Thank you Michael For always being there for the world and always being optimistic no matter what the odds were. You were a true artist and an amazing human being. You life will be celebrated for generations to come. When people tears in the mourning of your death, people that have never met you personally, thats when you know this man has truly had an impact on the world! Thank You, And Have a Blast in Heaven Buddy....

Larry   July 4th, 2009 7:32 pm ET

An often overlooked genius was Jimi Hendrix, as well as the great Sammy Davis Jr. who really transcended race.

Joel Montada   July 4th, 2009 8:21 pm ET

Right now, God is holding a megaconcert. featuring Elvis, John Lennon, Jimi Hendrix, James Brown, Luther Vandross, Tupac, Biggie, and Michael Jackson

Joel Montada   July 4th, 2009 8:59 pm ET

"People should not be focusing on how he died, but how he lived.... I believe he should be remembered solely for revolutionizing music, impeding racial barriers, and for being a worldly ambassador of good will... Sadly, it is impossible to ignore how he literally lived the later half of his life... as a contraversial freak"

Audrey Papke   July 4th, 2009 9:31 pm ET

Regarding custody of the three children of Michael Jackson. For the Jackson family, the third child, will, for the most part and possibly for the entirity – act in the interest of the Jackson family.

Regarding the other two children, a joint custody could occur. It is entirely possible.

He who stated the court does not like to separate children is correct. However, the other two children may have a joint custodial . . . Or visitation rights . . . Time will tell.

Anthony   July 4th, 2009 9:52 pm ET

Such a shame Michaels passing,and shattered for Orianthi..
Would have been a great experience for her, and the excitement turning into tears...But I'm sure Orianthi's talents will bring her into the
Rock and Roll hall of fame one Day...Remarkable Talent..
Anth..

JLG   July 4th, 2009 10:31 pm ET

Ahhh Dear talented Michael,
May your fans 'let' you rest in peace. That is my one wish for you.

May your 'loving' family members take solace in the fact that you now, finally do rest in peace.

Joe Jackson is, in my opinion a money-seeking scoundrel. And while I do not wish 'ill' on others; I respectfully say, ' What goes around, comes around'

JLG

Previously posted
Geesh, how I wish that Joe Jackson could view my comments. Sadly, I know that this will never happen…..so I merely want to say ….
- When was the last time that you hugged/held any of your children?
- Do you even know the names of Michael’s children? And how many times have you held them in your arms? What are their birth dates?
-Or, what did your ‘wife’ Catherine ‘do’ last week on Tues/or Weds/or Thurs?
-With due respect, I think that you may be one of the absentee-fathers that President Obama has spoken about.

Grieve for your son; yes! But for the loveofpete….just shush, ok? Just shush.

Me   July 4th, 2009 11:21 pm ET

It would have been a great show. Would I have gone? If I'd known Orianthi was in the touring band, probably. Otherwise, probably not. I'm not dissing MJ. I respect his genius and acknowledge the fact that he was the consummate entertainer, but for the most part his music wasn't really my cup of tea. That said, nobody did it better.

I think it's tragic that he was taken so young. I'd love to hear the results of the toxicology reports. My guess is somebody gave him something they shouldn't have.

Just a note to Rachelle (Michigan) – The guitarist in the footage of Michael at the Superbowl is not Orianthi, but Jennifer Batten, who's toured with MJ since the "Beat It" days (maybe even earlier). Both of those ladies know how to play guitar, and are easy on the eyes, too. MJ knew talent when he heard it.

bill   July 4th, 2009 11:28 pm ET

everyonone i know is sick of hearing about mike.why dont people talk about the young man that died while keeping us safe?i was a fan until the charges of mis conduct with minors.he overdosed but he will never be elvis.start showing north korea and every thing else.noone thought about him til he died

Stan   July 4th, 2009 11:37 pm ET

Michael jackson: I really wish the truth would come out about the two young boyys who's parents sued Michael Jackson. First of all after Michael had paid nearly 20,000,000 Dollars to the Family, the boy now a teenager said I lied, why because his parents wanted money. Michael Jackson was a easy target for parents wanting money, lots of money. Simply get your child to go to Neverland and sleep over. No matter where they would sleep, even in a totally different room, the parents would just have their children lie. I really hope the boy who lied on Michael Jackson, would now come forward and totally clear Michael Jacksons live so we can put him to rest in Peace. To the parents who had their child lie, God will have his way with you, once you leave here.

Rachelle (Michigan)   July 5th, 2009 12:26 am ET

Good blogging above from everyone.

I agree that it's manslaughter what the celeb doctor(s) have allowed to happen to MJ. I am very angry about their role in his demise. I realize MJ has a responsibility of his own to take good care of himself, but just as much as doctors get awed by celebs, celebs, I am sure are also awed by doctors also, and the medications that get offered to celebs for celebs to try to control their own bodies under such grueling performance lives.

So in the end, the Doctors have a responsibility to treat celebs lives more important than being driven by the $$$. I am very angry with all the doctors who could have truly helped MJ find a sleep solution that does not flirt with danger such as this.

I just want to yell out –> NO NO NO NO !!!!!
And then wake up and find that this is all a bad dream.
I am sooooooo angered over the needless loss of MJackson.
I lose a huge amount of respect for doctors as a result of this entire thing.

Adina Maz   July 5th, 2009 12:43 am ET

It`s such a shame and very unfair to Michael and his fans , both his memorial and his burrial should be nowhere else but at Neverland. There more fans would be able to attend and that would definately be Michael`s favourite place to rest . Why can`t anybody who has the authority to do something about it , just do it. It`s Michael Jackson we`re talking about , there`s never,ever going to be anybody like him , so what if we bend the law in his case at list that much he deserves after everything he`s done for this world. Shame , shame , shame on all of you authority people who can but won`t do anything about it.

Adina Maz   July 5th, 2009 1:00 am ET

Oh, and by the way, shame on you too , Joe Jackson. Millions of people around the world showed way more emotions and grief towards YOUR SON `s death than you. He`s not even burried yet and you`re trying to use his death to get richer.

Alan Ginsberg   July 5th, 2009 1:28 am ET

RIP MJ: You will be missed...........

Marvin   July 5th, 2009 1:37 am ET

r.i.p MJ

tripcyclone   July 5th, 2009 2:49 am ET

I saw someone posted that Orianthi was the guitarist from MJ's Super Bowl performance. That was actually Jennifer Battens.

I grew up listening to MJ and still can't believe he's gone. Despite all the negative coverage he received since the 90's, nothing will ever erase the huge amount of talent in all aspects of his performance. I'm sure he still had some tricks up his sleeve for all of his fans to hear and see. He will surely be missed.

Angela Lin(Taiwan)   July 5th, 2009 5:29 am ET

Oh my goodness!
It's been a week and I still can't believe it......
Michael left us,and just like what his song"You are not alone"says
he never really said goodbye,he just left so sudden......
I'm only a junior high student in Aisa.Before third grade,I didn't really know Michael,but once I heard his song,I fell in love with him.
The music,the dance move,almost everything.He's a true legend in the history of music,and long may he live in our heart.
Watching this last video made me cry.But he wouldn't want this,right?
Let us all give our best hope for Michael,and assure that we'll never forget him.

Carol   July 5th, 2009 11:44 am ET

You are doing a great job with this coverage Anderson. It is a sad story and one that should not have happened. I remember Micheal Jackson's song I'll be There at a cousin's wedding (after party) . I was 9 yrs old and I connected with music through that beautiful song. A lifelong love of singing has followed for me. It was a nice era Micheal Jackson was really sweet and talented. What occurs to me is that drug dependency crosses all walks of life. It is sad that it came to this for such a talented and obviously beloved individual. I wonder why he wasn't checked out better when he was complaining of hot and cold body temp. . That is usually indicative of trouble with the thyroid from what I have read recently. Possibly medicating can cause disturbances this way. Also I wonder if that Diptovan must be accompanied by a breathing tube. I have seen continuous i.v. sedation in a hospital setting given for a procedure last yr. that just required oxygen not any insertion of a tube. ? Just a thought. I am not certain the medication name but it was a continuous i.v. med at a well known hospital in our area. So I am wondering if the i.v. med MJ had may have been given w-o a tube just oxygen . It is so dangerous that any med would be given to him for sleeping this way . The only health issue I heard mentioned was that he had hay fever. That could be indicative of allergies . Has anyone looked into food allergy reaction, which if not treated promptly can lead right to cardiac arrest. (or medicine reaction can as well)
He will always live on in the music he made, and that is comforting for all those that loved his music. Thanks for all your great work with this story and others.

bert69   July 5th, 2009 11:48 am ET

we'll miss you mj...

Carol   July 5th, 2009 11:53 am ET

As a follow up to my comment I may be incorrect about the tube for breathing . I am not a medical person and it may have been (i.v. sedation with breathing tube) (I was thinking of a feeding tube that would involve a lot of work) At any rate it is highly unusual for anything like this to be given away from a hospital as you have all reported. The ones that did this for him or to him should be held accountable. Sorry for the mix up. Great Reporting again.

Darlene   July 5th, 2009 2:22 pm ET

This is so sad. I'm sad for his children. I'm sad that Michael never knew people loved him so much. We need to tell people while they are alive how we feel about them and stop waiting until they are dead to lavish all the praise.

Patty   July 5th, 2009 3:57 pm ET

Greek Girls are Smokin Hot, this proves it!

1stboybandfan   July 5th, 2009 6:09 pm ET

I am sure they dated. I respect Micheal Jackson's music memory alot, otherwise, he just seemed like an eternally messed up, confused, lost, and lonely rich musican that lost himself in that business. I fear the same for the Boybands, the Backstreet Boys already being the first victims of sorts.

jen   July 5th, 2009 6:32 pm ET

There has been report that the accuser of Jackson said he lied about the accusation. Has CNN ever investigated on such issue and care to comment.

Benigna Marko   July 5th, 2009 9:48 pm ET

Orianth has shown excellent respect and love. She has my vote. MJ was amazing and will never be forgotten. All the good he did for our time. Close your eyes and hear his music. Awe AMAZING. The KING OF POP will ive forever in our hearts and heads.
Benigna Marko

José Melo   July 5th, 2009 9:57 pm ET

Rachel from Michigan, I think you are thinking of Jennifer Batten, the guitar player that would usually perform with Michael Jackson. As far as I know, Orianthi was hired to play on the O2 shows in London but she had never played before for him.

Thanks CNN for all the great job on MJ's headlines, I'm not a big MJ fan, but it's been such a shame for the whole world, a part of our youth and chilhood has forever gone with him

J.Melo (Canary Islandsl)

rockstahkendi   July 5th, 2009 10:46 pm ET

MJ has given the world the best of himself, the best of his God given talents. Even before his death, he strived to continue giving the best of his music through his rehearsals such as the one he did with Orianthi Panagaris.
MJ, for the millions of global fans you left behind, our hearts are with
you. The music industry will never ever find such musical genius like you!

John Weems   July 5th, 2009 11:35 pm ET

Please people could we see some news, Are you not a news channel? You should change your name to the Jackson show!! Not everyone is a fan, And you people should go on with your life and bring us some news. Before all this came about there was a war and other such going on .
Thanks

Mila   July 6th, 2009 12:58 am ET

I still can't believe that the man on this video is now gone.

Kristen   July 6th, 2009 3:59 am ET

It really hurts to know that even in his death, that there are people still talking bad of him. He's done more in his life then anyone of the people that bad mouth him can say they have. He was a wonderful, talented, and gifted person that lost out on life too early. His legacy will live on forever and inspire generation after generation. I hope that Michael's wish could be carried out...to make this world a better place and to take a look in the mirror and make a change. He was a carefree spirit that just loved making people happy. If more people were to be like that you would see a world of change, but as we stand right now...nothing is good anymore. It's not fair what he had to live with because of money hungry people that gave him a bad rep that wasn't true. I don't care what anyone has to say, just listen to your heart and that's all that matters. For some reason this world (meaning the people in it) don't like to accept anything good. I'm not judging anyone in any way....just take a look at what Michael put up with because of false accusations. I also feel glad that he doesn't have to suffer in this world anymore. Thank you Michael for everything you've done and inspiring me. You are truly missed and loved very much! My prayers go out to his children and family...and all of his fans. Rest In Peace...your in good hands now.

brenda   July 6th, 2009 10:12 am ET

i must agree,Anderson you have given positive aspects of michael jackson,am from Kenya and all we hear are negatives.michael was human and i loved him soo much,he played the soundtrack to my childhood,every song has a memory and he was such a giving person,i will miss him.RIP Michael.our thoughts and prayers are with the children

Bunny   July 6th, 2009 11:56 am ET

Hey is it truee that LArry king live when they did that report on MJ's ranch his ghost came out. Also on Anderson cooper....
Can CNN respond on this was it just a camera man?

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