Michael Jackson released a statement regarding the death of CBS journalist Ed Bradley (1941-2006).

Bradley passed away on November 9, 2006 at age 65 of complications from leukemia. He was one of the first prominent African-American broadcasters and a longtime correspondent for CBS’s ‘60 Minutes’ program. His reports won 11 Emmy Awards as well as numerous other awards. During his career, Bradley also interviewed such personalities as Michael Jackson, Michael Jordan, and Muhammad Ali.

“I am saddened to learn of the passing of 60 Minutes correspondent Ed Bradley.

As the first African-American to anchor a network morning news program, Mr. Bradley was a trailblazer who set impeccable standards for reporting and journalistic benchmarks in television news. Mr. Bradley single-handily broke down barriers for minorities in journalism.

My family and I offer our sympathy and prayers to Mr. Bradley’s family and his friends. He will be missed.”

Michael Jackson, Dublin, Ireland

Source: Access Hollywood, MJFC