By Andrea Archibald, staff writer
UPDATED at 6:58 PM
Michael Jackson’s death may have been related to prescription drugs abuse – Los Angeles Police reinterviewing Jackson’s doctor who is cooperating
LOS ANGELES (RPRN) 6/26/2009–As mourning pours in from around the world, speculation into the cause of Michael Jackson’s death swirls. The autopsy is scheduled for today, although the official cause of death could take weeks as medical examiners wait for toxicology. The reports will determine whether there was the presence of drugs, alcohol, and/or prescription medications in his system at the time of his death. Rumors have begun to swirl over Jackson’s overall health in recent months and his use of several prescription medications.
Meanwhile, celebrities and civil rights leaders and politicians from around the world have been publicly mourning the lost of the music legend.
Press secretary Robert Gibbs said on behalf of President Obama, “He [Obama] said to me, ‘Obviously Michael Jackson was a spectacular performer, a music icon. I think everybody remembers hearing his songs, watching him moonwalk on television during Motown’s 25th anniversary.’ But the president also said he had aspects of his life that were sad and tragic. His condolences went out to Jackson’s family and to fans that mount his loss.”
Child actor and acting legend Elizabeth Taylor who was in the process of packing her bags to attend Jackson’s concert in London, finally released a statement about the untimely death of her longtime friend. “My heart…my mind… are broken,” she said in a statement. “I loved Michael with all my soul and I can’t imagine life without him. We had so much in common and we had such loving fun together.”
Brooke Shields, another child actor who was once believed to be a love interest of Jackson said, “My heart is overcome with sadness for the devastating loss of my true friend Michael,” the actress said. “He was an extraordinary friend, artist and contributor to the world. I join his family and his fans in celebrating his incredible life and mourning his untimely passing.”
Former wife Lisa Marie Presley says: “I am so very sad and confused with every emotion possible. I am heartbroken for his children, who I know were everything to him, and for his family. This is such a massive loss on so many levels, words fail me.”
Justin Timberlake, in a statement on his website, said that he “can’t find the words right now to express how deeply saddened I am by Michael’s passing. We have lost a genius and a true ambassador of not only Pop music, but of all music. He has been an inspiration to multiple generations and I will always cherish the moments I shared with him on stage and all of the things I learned about music from him and the time we spent together. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones.”
Madonna has said that she “can’t stop crying over the sad news. I have always admired Michael Jackson. The world has lost one of the greats, but his music will live on forever! My heart goes out to his three children and other members of his family. God bless.”
Longtime friend Liza Minnelli said: “He was a kind, genuine, and wonderful man. He was also one of the greatest entertainers that ever lived. I loved him very much and I will miss him every remaining day of my life.”
Gov. Arnold Schwartnegger released a statement saying: “Today, the world has lost one of the most influential and iconic figures in the music industry. Maria and I join all Californians in expressing our shock and sadness over his death and our hearts go out the Jackson family, Michael’s children and to his fans worldwide.”
Britney Spears: “I was so excited to see his show in London. We were going to be on tour in Europe at the same time and I was going to fly in to see him. He has been an inspiration throughout my entire life and I’m devastated he’s gone!
Chris Brown: Rest in Peace, The Legendary Michael Jackson – the greatest entertainer ever!
Mariah Carey: No artist will ever take his place. His star will shine forever. millions of devoted fans throughout the world. I feel blessed to have performed with him several times & to call him my friend.
Lindsay Lohan: NO OMG … sending my love and prayers out to Michael and his family … i feel sick..
Pete Wentz: Prayers and thoughts with michael jackson … I have never felt this before in my life. I could measure my childhood 2 now on an mj growth chart. if this is true. Rip. The last legend.
Kim Kardashian: Wow I am truly in shock that Michael Jackson has passed away! I love u Jackson family, my prayers are with the whole family!
Travis Barker: Michael Jackson R.I.P.
John Mayer: Dazed in the studio. A major strand of our cultural DNA has left us. RIP MJ. I think we’ll mourn his loss as well as the loss of ourselves as children listening to Thriller on the record player.
Quincy Jones: I am absolutely devastated at this tragic and unexpected news…He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever. I’ve lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone with him.
Elton John was in the middle of his annual White Tie and Tiara Ball when he heard news of Michael Jackson’s death. He dedicated his song “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” to Michael.
Al Sharpton: A friend of Michael’s for the last 35 years, I call on people around the world to pray for him and his family in the hour. I have known Michael since we were both teens, worked with him, marched for him, hosted him at our House of Justice headquarters in New York, and we joined together to eulogize our mutual idol, James Brown. I have known him at his high moments and his low moments and I know he would want us to pray for his family.
Priscilla Presley: I’m in shock, as I know everyone must be. What a tragic loss. My heartfelt thoughts are with his family at this very difficult time.
Rihanna: Truely saddened, hopefully the rumors aren’t true…. not believing anything until it’s confirmed.
Denise Richards: this is just so sad !! I can’t believe it! Shocking ..
Lil Jon: RIP M J!!
Heidi Montag: the world has suffered a GREAT loss today Michael Jackson my thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fans God bless…God rest his soul he will live on forever!
Jane Fonda: I am stunned. My friend, Michael Jackson is dead. He lived with me for a week on “Golden Pond” set after “Th
photos: wikipedia
