This podcast explores Michael Jackson's portrayal in the tabloid media, his transformation and the release of his album 'Bad', the negative press surrounding his appearance, the relationship between the National Enquirer and Michael Jackson, and the power of memory and eyewitness testimonies.
51:15
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Quick takeaways
Michael Jackson's resilience and dedication to his craft, despite suffering severe burns from a pyrotechnic mishap on the set of a Pepsi commercial in 1984.
The tabloid media's focus on Michael Jackson's changing appearance and eccentric behavior, portraying him as an oddball, while his album sales remained strong and he continued to captivate audiences with his music and performances.
Michael Jackson's televised interview with Oprah Winfrey in 1993 helped humanize him and rebuild sympathy and understanding by addressing rumors and explaining his battle with vitiligo.
Deep dives
Nelson Hayes' Experience as Michael Jackson's Personal Assistant
Nelson Hayes, a personal assistant to Michael Jackson, recounts his experience on the set of a Pepsi commercial shoot in 1984. While assisting Jackson and his brothers, Hayes was tasked with cueing the pyro technician for special effects. Unfortunately, during one take, a mishap occurred, resulting in Jackson's hair catching fire. Hayes describes the chaotic aftermath and Jackson's calm demeanor despite suffering severe burns. Hayes's account offers insights into Jackson's dedication to his craft and resilience.
Media Perception and Misconceptions about Michael Jackson
This segment explores the shift in public perception of Michael Jackson's image, particularly in the tabloid media. After the release of the 'Bad' album, the tabloids began focusing on Jackson's changing appearance and eccentric behavior. They portrayed him as an oddball and carried out sensational stories, such as his supposed attempt to buy the Elephant Man's bones. Despite the scrutiny, Jackson's album sales remained strong, and he continued to captivate audiences with his music and performances.
Reclaiming the Narrative: The Oprah Interview
Michael Jackson's televised interview with Oprah Winfrey in 1993 aimed to humanize him and counter the negative media portrayal. In the interview, Jackson addresses rumors, including the story of the hyperbaric chamber and his changing skin color. He explains having vitiligo, a skin disorder that destroys pigmentation, and expresses his sorrow over the misrepresentation by the media. The interview garnered a massive viewership and helped rebuild sympathy and understanding for Jackson.
MTV's Role in Shaping Michael Jackson's Image
Michael Jackson's label, Epic Records, orchestrated a PR push in the early 1990s to refocus the public's attention on his music rather than his eccentricities. MTV obliged by including a memo instructing employees to refer to Jackson as the 'King of Pop,' a term previously used by Elizabeth Taylor during an award show. This strategic move sought to dispel the narrative of 'Wacko Jacko' and reestablish Michael's status as a musical powerhouse.
The Influence of Michael Jackson's Management
Michael Jackson's management team, led by Sandy Galen and later Sandy Galen, played a significant role in shaping his public image. They managed the release of information to the media, orchestrated interviews and stories, and ensured that Jackson's music and career were always in the spotlight. While facing constant scrutiny, they strategized to control the narrative and maintain the public's interest in Michael Jackson.
Michael’s eccentric behavior and ever-changing appearance pique the curiosity of the public and the press. But was Michael a tabloid victim or a genius public relations ringmaster?
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 producer for this episode was Sam Lee.
