Michael Jackson fans gather in front of the Staples Center
Photo: Mark Ralston/ AFP
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July 5, 2009
Millions Await News on Michael Jackson Memorial Tickets
By Jayson Rodriguez (MTV.com)
The 1.6 million fans who registered to receive tickets to the Michael Jackson memorial service are still in limbo regarding the results. They are still awaiting notification through email on whether they were selected to attend the service, which will be held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
Bogus reports have been making the rounds online, falsely attributed to The Associated Press. These reports allege that notification has been delayed until Monday (July 6) due to the enormous demand. However Shawn Sachs, a publicist working with the Jackson family, told MTV News via e-mail that "nothing has changed," and fans will still be notified on Sunday between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. Ticket pickup will then take place on Monday, at a location away from the Staples Center. Two tickets and two corresponding wristbands will then be given to 8,750 computer-selected fans.
While millions wait anxiously for the results, some Jackson fans have already made a trip down to the Staples Center to pay tribute to their idol. A banner honoring Jackson that was erected on Star Plaza just in front of the center has become a makeshift memorial. Many visited the site during the holiday weekend and signed the banner with messages, placed drawings of the King of Pop nearby or laid down flowers honoring the late musical icon.
"I just wrote, 'Michael, you brought so much happiness to the world. May you rest in peace,' " Los Angeles resident Jessica Rendon told MTV News. She had queued together with her boyfriend and cousin for 30 minutes to tag the sign. Representatives from the Staples Center allowed fans into the barricaded area for five minutes each to take pictures or leave a message.
According to the AP, a private memorial for Jackson's family will take place before Tuesday's public service. LAPD Assistant Chief Jim McDonnell would not provide details on the private event beyond confirming the location at the Forest Lawn cemetery in the Hollywood Hills. Plans for the services are still being finalized.