Michael Jackson, known as the King of Pop, left an indelible mark on the music industry. His tragic death on June 25, 2009, at the age of 50, shocked the world. He passed away due to cardiac arrest, leaving behind three children: Prince Jackson, Paris Jackson, and Bigi Jackson.
The Last Years of Michael’s Life
In the years leading up to his death, Michael Jackson faced numerous challenges. He struggled with chronic insomnia and, to cope, frequently resorted to medications. His personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, played a critical role during this period. On the night before his passing, Murray administered a combination of medications, including Valium, Ativan, and Versed, none of which succeeded in helping the singer sleep. Eventually, at Jackson’s insistence, Murray administered 25 milligrams of propofol, a powerful anesthetic usually reserved for surgeries. This final dose proved fatal.
The Shocking News
At 2:26 PM on June 25, 2009, Michael Jackson was officially declared dead at the UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles. News of his passing was first reported by the website TMZ, catching global media and fans by surprise. The coroner later confirmed that his death was a homicide due to acute propofol intoxication. Dr. Conrad Murray, who was found responsible for the administration of the drug, was charged with involuntary manslaughter in 2010 and sentenced to four years in prison in 2011.
Michael Jackson’s Rise to Fame
Born on August 29, 1958, Michael Joseph Jackson began his career as a child prodigy in the Jackson 5 alongside his brothers. Managed by their father, Joe Jackson, the group rose to fame with hits such as “ABC” and “I’ll Be There” during the 1960s and 1970s. Michael’s star power quickly outshone the group, paving the way for his solo career.
The Peak of His Career
Jackson’s solo breakthrough came with the 1979 album “Off the Wall”, but it was 1982’s “Thriller” that cemented his status as a global icon. With over 70 million copies sold, it remains the best-selling album of all time. Hits like “Billie Jean”, “Beat It”, and the legendary “Thriller” video elevated him to unprecedented stardom.
Controversies and Legal Battles
Despite his monumental success, Michael Jackson’s life was marred by controversies. In 1993, he was accused of child abuse, and similar allegations surfaced again later. However, in 2005, Jackson was acquitted of all charges after a highly publicized trial. The trial and its aftermath led him to adopt an increasingly reclusive lifestyle. He moved to Bahrain for a period at the invitation of Prince Abdullah bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and later relocated to rural Ireland with his children.
The “This Is It” Tour
In March 2009, Jackson announced a return to the stage with the “This Is It” tour at the O2 Arena in London. This ambitious comeback featured 50 planned performances, and all 750,000 tickets sold out within hours. Despite being 50 years old, those who worked closely with him during rehearsals said that he appeared determined and energetic, showing no apparent signs of a looming crisis.
Legacy and Lasting Impact
Jackson’s sudden death highlighted not only his troubled final years but also his profound influence on music, dance, and pop culture. He popularized the moonwalk, introduced innovative music videos, and inspired countless artists. Michael Jackson’s legacy lives on through his music, which continues to resonate with fans across generations. His story will further be told in the upcoming biopic “Michael”, featuring his nephew Jaafar Jackson in the lead role.
Fifteen years later, Michael Jackson’s name evokes admiration, curiosity, and debate, a testament to his unmatched talent and complex life.