Michael Jackson, the “King of Pop,” who emerged from childhood superstardom to become the entertainment world’s most influential singer and dancer, died Thursday. He was 50.
Though the circumstances of his death are not clear, it is known that Jackson was not breathing when Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded to a call at his Los Angeles home about 12:30 p.m.
Michael’s 1982 album “Thriller” — which included the blockbuster hits “Beat It,” “Billie Jean” and “Thriller” — remains the biggest-selling album of all time, with more than 26 million copies.
Hundreds of people gathered outside the hospital as word of his death spread. The emergency entrance at the UCLA Medical Center, which is near Jackson’s rented home, was roped off with police tape.
Despite all of the bizarre, scandalous events that have overshadowed his unique ability to unite a world through music, he will truly be missed.
RIP Michael Jackson!
