The following was recently reported by Reuters:

Pop star Michael Jackson appeared in public in Tokyo on Saturday for the first time since his acquittal on sex-abuse charges last year, accepting a music award and thanking “all the people who believed in me.”

Introduced to an adoring crowd at a Tokyo stadium as “the king of pop, the king of rock and the king of soul,” Jackson flashed a quick “peace” sign as he walked onstage to the sound of one of his biggest hits, “Thriller”.

“I’d like to say to the Japanese people from the bottom of my heart, ‘I love you very, very much’,” the 47-year-old entertainer said.

Receiving a “Legend Award” at MTV’s Japan Video Music Awards ceremony, Jackson said, “I thank the fans around the world and I thank the fans in Japan.

“I promised myself I wouldn’t be emotional when I got up here,” he continued, as his voice cracked and trailed off. Then he added, “I think you are very sweet, generous and kind people.

“I thank all the people who believed in me. I believe in you.

“I thank my children, Prince, Paris and Blanket, who have been there for me,” he added. “I love them very much.”

In a brief appearance backstage with reporters after the ceremony, Jackson was asked if he had a message for his fans.

I love you and thank you for your loyalty,” he said, making a light bow and putting his hand to his heart.

A steady rain pelted Tokyo on Saturday, but neither the weather nor scandal could prevent several hundred fans from flocking to catch a glimpse of Jackson as he arrived to receive the award.

“WE LOVE YOU, MICHAEL”

The crowd held up signs that read “We love you, Michael” and “Welcome to Japan” and some sported his trademark glitter glove as Jackson stepped out of a black limousine, surrounded by several bodyguards.

Wearing sunglasses, a jewellery-embroidered black blazer and tight black trousers with a simple white T-shirt, Jackson did not speak but waved and raised a forefinger to acknowledge a group of reporters before he was whisked inside along a red carpet.

Jackson has remained largely in seclusion since his trial on child molestation charges.

He will also spend time in Tokyo touring the city, visiting orphanages and meeting with Asian business leaders, spokeswoman Raymone Bain said, adding that his trip kicks off the first in a series of planned visits to Asia.

“I look forward to my visit to Japan because I have so many fond memories of my visits there,” Jackson said in a statement.

Source: MJNO

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