Michael Jackson, music legend, attempts to rebuild his legacy after sexual abuse allegations. Topics discussed: his battle with addiction, plans for a comeback, public skepticism towards his marriage, visit to a children's hospital in Budapest, challenges in the production of a history film, and coverage of his trial.
Michael Jackson's marriage to Lisa Marie Presley during the 1993 sexual abuse allegations aimed at rebuilding his legacy through a high-profile relationship.
Michael Jackson's ambitious project of releasing the 'History' album, accompanied by a promotional teaser film and grand marketing campaign, aimed at solidifying his status as the King of Pop.
Deep dives
Michael Jackson's Troubles and Personal Struggles
As allegations of sexual assault against Michael Jackson surfaced in 1993, his close friend Shana Mangatal felt the emotional toll as she worked for his manager. She witnessed Michael's depression, possible drug use, and the frenzy from the media seeking interviews. Concerned for his well-being, Mangatal saw Michael's gradual decline as he became disconnected from his management team. His phone calls to Mangatal revealed his struggles and desire for human connection. Amidst the turmoil, Michael sought refuge in a relationship with Lisa Marie Presley, marrying her shortly after the allegations emerged.
The Monumental History Project
Michael Jackson embarked on a grand project to solidify his legacy as the King of Pop. He released the album 'History: Past, Present and Future, Book I,' accompanied by a promotional teaser film. The film featured a colossal statue of Michael, akin to a war memorial, symbolizing his desire for eternal fame and significance. The elaborate marketing campaign included placing giant statues of Michael across Europe and replacing a statue of Stalin in Prague. Despite controversy and critical reception, the History album sold well and laid the foundation for Michael's ongoing legacy aspirations.
The Marriage to Lisa Marie Presley
After his divorce from Lisa Marie Presley, Michael Jackson sought refuge in a romantic relationship with Shana Mangatal. Despite their deep connection, Mangatal experienced heartbreak as she watched Michael remarry Debbie Rowe. The media speculated on the motives behind marriage, with some questioning Michael's true desires and intentions. Mangatal struggled with conflicting emotions, realizing that her relationship with Michael was fading. Meanwhile, Michael's history album faced mixed reviews and underwhelming sales in the United States compared to previous successes.
The Ambitious History Tour
Michael Jackson embarked on an extensive global tour, the History Tour, featuring 82 shows in 57 cities worldwide. The tour aimed to reinforce his status as an iconic pop star, and Michael focused on Europe where his popularity remained strong. The tour's kickoff in Prague, Czech Republic garnered significant attention as organizers placed a colossal statue of Michael in the city center, replacing a statue of Joseph Stalin. The controversial move sparked debate and symbolized Michael's desire for adoration and immortalization.
In the aftermath of the 1993 sexual abuse allegations, Michael Jackson marries into musical royalty and attempts to rebuild his legacy with the most audacious project of his career.
Think Twice: Michael Jackson was produced by Dustin DeSoto, Benjamin Frisch, Kim Gittleson, Danielle Hewitt, Sam Lee, Leon Neyfakh, Andrew Parsons, and Jay Smooth, and edited by Diane Hodson. The lead producers for this episode were Dustin DeSoto and Benjamin Frisch.