On June 25, 2009, Michael Jackson died of a prescription drug overdose.
It was a stunning incident that the music industry, and the world at large, may never fully get over.
Nearly eight years to the day after the icon passed away, Lifetime aired Michael Jackson: Searching for Neverland, an unauthorized biopic told from the point of view of his security guards, Bill Whitfield and Javon Beard.
The pair released a 2014 book about the final years of Jackson’s difficult life and, while we cannot confirm the veracity of the following tidbits, the film surprised fans with a series of revelations.
To wit:
1. Let’s Play!
As we know, Jackson placed masks on his children’s faces to avoid having their identities known to the public. According to the movie, he referred to this act as “dress up,” turning it into a game for his three kids.
2. Blanket Coverage
A paparazzo once snapped a photo of Blanket, with Javon tracking him down and grabbing the camera. Jackson then supposedly paid $ 75,000 to the photographer after his then-assistant Feldman destroyed the evidence.
3. How Did the Doctor Get In?
Dr. Conrad Murray was convicted of involuntary manslaughter for his role in Jackson’s death. The film says that Jackson met this physician when his daughter, Paris, got sick and required medical attention and Jackson did not want to bring her to the hospital.
4. No Brotherly Love
Jackson did not attend Elizabeth Taylor’s birthday party one year because he feared that his brother, Randy, would follow him there and demand money, causing a scene.
5. Ho… Ho… NO?
Jackson didn’t celebrate Christmas because he was a Jehovah’s witness. However, he still permitted his three kids to open presents and celebrate.
6. Hot Sauce on Popcorn?!?
Jackson brought his own hot sauce and spray butter into the movies for his popcorn.