Nearly 17 years after his death, the Michael Jackson brand is more carefully curated than ever.
While the new “Michael” biopic (in theaters now) celebrates his greatest hits and performances, the big-budget nostalgia trip stops short of addressing the multiple accusations of child molestation that plagued him for the latter third of his life.
The movie ends in 1988, five years before dentist Evan Chandler accused the pop star of molesting his 13-year-old son, Jordan. Jackson denied any wrongdoing, but settled the lawsuit for $23 million in early 1994.
According to Variety, the film was set to address Chandler’s allegations directly, with a scene of investigators searching Jackson’s Neverland Ranch for evidence. But attorneys for Jackson's estate allegedly discovered a clause in the legal settlement with Chandler, preventing any mention or depiction of him in any movie.
“Michael,” which stars the pop music icon's nephew, Jaafar Jackson, attempts to temper the singer’s tainted public perception. The film features numerous scenes of Jackson with children: visiting sick kids in the hospital and signing autographs for youngsters at a toy store, excitedly talking with them about his favorite games and books.
