The science of dead celebrities

Marie, Encinitas, CA — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 05:18:55 GMT

Stever has the right ideas about recognizing true talent and social networking in being a "die-hard" fan of a celebrity. There is a whole social network that happens with getting to "know" the celebrity as the "icing on the cake".

The science of dead celebrities

Laurel Kornfeld — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 05:39:19 GMT

I'll take the Greek gods over so-called "celebrities" any day. I say this out of extreme conviction that the "celebrity culture" is highly toxic. It encourages people to live vicariously through others instead of seeking firsthand meaningful life experiences. It promotes a passive rather than an active lifestyle. This can be seen from the very language involved. "Celebrities" are labeled stars, and one can argue that those whose lives revolve around them could be considered the equivalent of planets.

The Greek myths are archetypes that are classic in their timelessness, in the fact that they actively engage us. These characters all represent parts of us, archetypes, as Carl Jung called them. They are not human beings, yet they are part of us all.

This is very different from the current veneration of living human beings, which could be considered a re-creation of the concepts of nobility, aristocracy and royalty. Why? Because it establishes certain people as being essentially of a "higher station" and more worthy of attention than most others. It is in direct contradiction with the founding principle of this country, which is that all people are created equal. Equal does not mean identical, but it does mean of equal worth. So if Michael Jackson does something, it is no more worthy of media attention than if anyone else does it.

The "celebrity culture" is teeming with people who have absolutely no talent but terrific marketers who could sell snake oil and become millionaires. How many Susan Boyles are out there, who are just as talented, if not more so, than these so-called celebrities, yet get absolutely no recognition?

If any people should be considered heroes and admired, it is our veterans, who put life and limb on the line every day fighting for us. It is not surprising that many veterans are livid about Michael Jackson's death getting this much attention when our soldiers die and are maimed every day and get nothing from the media.

I am a writer and an actress and a person of very high self-esteem--mine has probably reached Earth orbit! :) Why should I make gods or icons of other performers when I can do the same thing they do, and in many cases, I can do it better than they can? Why should I worship them when people in the industry recognize my talent only to say, "but I can't market you?" That's why, when the subject of "celebrities" comes up, I say, these so-called "stars" should be idolizing me rather than the other way around. Of course, I would rather see no human being idolized unless he/she actually accomplished genuinely great things.

Performing is a talent, and acting is a craft, but it is not heroism, and no performer deserves millions for one film or show. If that kind of money goes to anyone, it should be research scientists, such as the person who will one day find the cure for cancer. The fact that it goes to self-indulgent performers instead is a good reason why young people want to be athletes and models when they grow up instead of doctors and scientists.

As my science major college roommate used to say, the only stars I recognize are the ones in the sky. There is no evidence that any human being, in Hollywood or elsewhere, is generating his/her own light by nuclear fusion. And I refuse to live my life as a planet revolving around someone else.

The science of dead celebrities

sycologist — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 06:28:31 GMT

Like MJ or not, most of us can identify with a particular song of his, which invokes memories of times long gone. It's not because MJ was particularly likeable - he wasn't - and his behavior extremely circumspect to say the least. But I did like Billie Jean.

The science of dead celebrities

bobk — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:25:04 GMT

IT fills a purpose; not everybody *is* going to go out and have meaningful life experiences. In the old days a person like that sat around the cottage and thought about basically nothing. This can help give a focus; I just prefer to idolize someone like AMber Benson instead of Farrah or The Michael.

The science of dead celebrities

Carl — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 13:39:25 GMT

I think fans of MJ are in love with the IMAGE of the man. They are NOT in love with the actual person, who none of us really knew. At the BET awards last week, Janet Jackson said, "To you, Michael is an icon. For us, he was our family member." I think people project a bigger-than-life status to celebrities (because of his music, images, videos). However, that status is no more accurate of that actual celebrity than Tom Hanks is actually Forrest Gump. It's just an image portrayed to the public at large. And, that's what people mourn. The MJ fans, we mourn the loss of a percieved person. If many of us knew MJ personally, we would probably be disappointed or disinterested. It would be like learning that there is no Santa.

The science of dead celebrities

Kathleen Pritchett, O'Fallon, Illinois — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 14:31:28 GMT

As our socialization(and humanity) within our own community/society dwindles, especially for younger members, the rise of celebrity worship increases. Unfortunately, there is no mystery left. Celebrities do everything under the sun and it is reported (for money) to the general public. And because of these reportings, the trends set are viewed as wholesome. In the past, police officers, teachers,religious men and women, firemen were persons who were cherished and looked up to for admiration. It was a realistic adoration since 'we' could see their strengths as well as personal flaws. Due to the crumbling structure of our own communities because of outside pressures enhanced by the 24/7 media as well as other social ills being accepted as benign and 'good' (gang initiations, drug use, murder, greed and total love of money))our own communities are not an example of what is admirable. End result: we look outside of our lives for our own fixes to our woes.

If you ever need to see where this is all going, read a few good science fiction novels. Our society is in the midst of collapsing.

The science of dead celebrities

H .S. MTL ,QUE — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 14:40:05 GMT

I don't quite understand society on it's hold, when Michael Jackson was going through his trials the whole world watches; but they never say they did not believe he was inocent . Now the whole world is mourning his death ,he needed these people to stand up for him when he was alive now he can't see them they are coming out to do what . They are fooling themselves,Iam sorry he had to go this way; but every body will one day leave this wicked world,but where are they going when they leave this place. Pray for his children they will need all the prays they can get. Why so many doctors and medication they all needed to go to jail for what they put him through even the Judge who was responsible for some of his pain needed to retired . They put him through Hell now he is at peace may his soul have rest.

The science of dead celebrities

Austin Ikogwe, Lagos, Nigeria — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:03:42 GMT

Micheal jackson is a man of integrity in-born of music, his voice and body fitness in dancing attract me mostly with god gift talent. I love him and also miss him, dead has snached my best musician, I lov u uuu. may yur gentle soul rest in perfect peace. I will continualy playing his musics untill the earth sumersauted. RIP Jackson

The science of dead celebrities

Susan, Buffalo, MO — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:07:14 GMT

Michael, in a way, was our generation's Mozart. He was a child prodigy who went on to capture the imagination of millions w/ his lyrics, music and his dancing. He broke through a racial barrier, topping the charts and creating a fan-base that circled the globe.
All while his personal life became more and more bizarre and problematic. Die-hard fans made excuses for his plastic surgeries and "legal difficulties", often blaming his troubles on an abusive father and an abnormal, or complete lack of a normal, childhood. He was "Peter Pan" with his Neverland Ranch and seemingly childish understanding of the "real" world.
Even other celebrities rushed to his aid and defense. He married, procured children, and yet was always the Boy King who must be coddled and protected from reality. He lived a life so far removed from normalcy one has to wonder how that affected him psychologically. One of his friends arranged for a late night trip to a closed grocery store and Michael spent an hour or more happily shopping "like a kid in a candy shop"!
Being only two years older than Michael, I was right there, along for the ride as our generation watched his meteoric rise to this ultra-stardom and then the shooting star and it's inevitable fall into this fiery mega-burst across the heavens.
While I enjoyed some of his music and got a thrill out of his dancing and videos, I never got swept up in the mania. He was always like a very talented, but very weird, little brother to me. I'd grown up with him, watched his metamorphosis, shaking my head at his peculiarities, frowning at the lawsuits and felony charges. Did he do it? I have no idea.
I believe that most of the fans that are over-the-top "fanatics", came to know him late in the game. The 20-30-somethings that never knew him as a child star, except in videos. The ones who only knew the man with the accomplished voice and moves. The video-agers. It's just a theory of mine.
I admit I was very shocked when I heard that Michael was dead. I was expecting Farrah's death and felt the grief that a very brave woman and icon of my youth had passed away, but was also glad that she was at peace. I had just lost my estranged father the week before, a man I hadn't seen since early childhood. I can admit that I felt more grief for Michael. He was, at least, a more constant presence in my life, albeit an impersonal one. I knew more about Michael, and in that strange way that song lyrics can touch your heart, felt more of a connection with a dead singer than with the man who had fathered me. I will watch the memorial, maybe a tear will fall for a sadly distorted life and a great talent silenced. Then I will move on, occasionally getting in the mood for a little music from "MJ". May he rest in peace. Finally.

The science of dead celebrities

Sue — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:21:03 GMT

Thank you, Laurel, very well put. I think we know there are too many people out there living very empty and unfullfilling lives.

The science of dead celebrities

Mark Ronza Memphis tn — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:28:57 GMT

Having lived in memphis during the time of Elvis, during his death , and the present . I have talked to many elvis fans and asked them what their fascination was with elvis and almost all of them said " we can relate to him, so we live our lives through him" as weird as that may sound .

The science of dead celebrities

Kathy Wang, Richmond, Ca — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:39:50 GMT

I agree with Professor Stever. Although fans might come together because of an admiration of the celebrity, most stay for the lifelong friendships and the social networking.

Fan clubs aren't just the "screaming and hysterical fans" just wanting to touch their idols. I have found the people in the fan clubs that I have met very diverse. They can range from the teenager who is "in love" with the celebrity to the housewife to the professional.
Meeting the celebrities and getting to speak to them makes you realize that they are people just like you and appreciate them that much more.

The science of dead celebrities

Bill W, Gig Harbor, Wash — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:50:41 GMT

The media orgy over Michael Jackson's death is absurd and sickening. The hyperbolic pandering to 'fans' and constant coverage illustrates the shallowness of our society. Yes, he wrote some very nice music and sure could dance. He was also a pedophile.

His music sales now are beyond huge, all fueled by the media's constant clamoring about how 'great' he was. The masses can't discriminate this fad for what it is and they buy memorabilia just to be participants - far better to put the monies to use helping other people instead of t-shirt merchants and record companies.

Meanwhile, other people die (Farrah Fawcett) and they receive scant coverage. The situation in Iran progresses, N.Korea has gone ballistic, the economy is in meltdown, etc., and ALL we care about is MJ's death and the funeral today, like he was a great statesman?

Play the Symphony in the Key of Woe Minor please...

The science of dead celebrities

tommyB53 — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:53:32 GMT

Laurel,
Saying no one deserves millions for one show is like saying no one deserves millions for anything. It's called the free market economy, and if a person is worth that in the market, if enough people will buy what they do, then anyone in this country DESERVES to make as much money as they can. It doesn't matter whether you're Henry Ford, Bill Gates or Michael Jackson. It's called America, Laurel. You might want to consider dealing with it.

The science of dead celebrities

Greg, Houston, Texas — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:58:38 GMT

a media-generated spectacle

The science of dead celebrities

Bethany Meisberger, Pittsburgh, PA — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:06:53 GMT

It's a media-generated spectacle.

The science of dead celebrities

Gail Cooke, Calgary, AB Canada — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:21:18 GMT

Personally, I think it's sad that people reserve such affection for celebraties and not for the people that actually matter. What screwed up priorities people have. Especially when the only reason celebrities do what they do is for profit. These people don't care about you. They want your bank account. So very, very sad.

The science of dead celebrities

Imelda, Atlanta, GA — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:23:02 GMT

Today on July 7, his body will be put to final resting, May God bless you, my megastar, your star will keep shining through.
for me, you are the most wonderful human being although I have never met you or meet you one on one, but my gut telling me that you are so very special.
that's the thing, wonderful person usually die so early.
you, your music and dance will be remembered by many people, especially me and my family.

The science of dead celebrities

Forrest, Fort Wayne, In. — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:34:20 GMT

As our "Socialist" Polititians rapidly sacrafice our sovrenty and liberty, from the nationalizing banks and the auto industry, to the "capp and tax" bill passed by the House, The totally bought and paid for main stream media found a very convenient cover for what they SHOULD have been reporting, by cramming Michaial Jackson's death down out throats. We have lost a celibrety, yes, but what is more important. "The graveyards are filled with indespensable men." Charles DeGaulle

The science of dead celebrities

Brad, Cleveland, OH — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:43:58 GMT

I think the main point of this article is not to whom people "worship," but it addresses (and raises questions about) the reasons why we do it.

True, there is much celebrity worship due to marketing and the mass media. If it were not for the inventions of radio, television, and recorded music there would be very few celebrities. There are many talented people around our world...just look at all the reality shows and you'll understand that very clearly.

We tend to idolize those that affect our emotions (plus we tend to listen to the pundits and evaluators). Once we have been touched by a song, a story, an event, we tend to connect with the person(s) that are the messengers of that message or story. Many do have trouble differentiating between those reality and fiction, however, and they attach themselves to that individual or group and voila - a "star" is born.

Why do we do that? I guess it fills the need to worship something or someone. I agree that in some ways it may lessen the reality of death, but yet, listening to music or seeing a program or movie in which the principal actor/musician is dead brings our mortality right back into my mind. Many people say that they don't worship anything. I disagree...we all worship some thing or some person, be it a god or otherwise.

If we just realize that Michael Jackson was just one person (talented, yes), and in effect, was no different than anyone else, it puts his death into proper perspective.

I tend to try to do this with all "celebrities." I am a fan of Josh Groban, "Lord of the Rings," as well as "Star Trek." But I have never paid enormous amounts of money or spent alot of time in the world of "celebrity worship." I am interested, yes, but I remember, that at the end of the day, they, too, go home to their partners, have issues and struggles, and "down" days. Many times, they themselves can't handle the fame and idolization. Michael couldn't.

While it is sad that MJ died the way he did, he is just like me... a human being.

The science of dead celebrities

Debby Flickinger, Pleasant Hill, CA — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:45:37 GMT

I am really sad to hear that he is not with us anymore. However, he will live in our hearts forever; because of his talent and greatness to charities. MJ rest and peace and I as many will never forget you.

The science of dead celebrities

Bell, La. — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:46:16 GMT

I've been reading these messages and they range from total disgust at Michael's lifestyle to total adoration. The fact is that celebrities (most of them) are by far the most egotistical individuals on earth. When Michael was going through the trials and tribulations brought about by the accusations of children who claimed that he molested them, his counterparts were no where to be found. Many of them made jokes about him. Now all these "entertainers" want to be a part of his memerial service. That's disgusting! Michael may have escaped incarceration after the scandal, but he couldn't escape condemnation or the loss of his wealth. The fact is, law enforcement discovered many disturbing things in his home that pointed to a sexual deviant. But if the families of the so-called victims were willing to take money for the abuse of their children, attorneys and the accused were more than willing to pay, whatever the cost. This is a real eye opener and says a lot about our society and what we're willing to overlook. But rest assured that if John Doe committed these same acts with young boys, he would not be so lucky. I guess money and prestige can buy you almost anything. Anything but mortality that is. In the end, no one could save Michael from himself. He died a broken, lonely man. A man who was tortured by a painful childhood, a man who destroyed his own face out of fear and an overwhelming lack of confidence. Our society is failing at a staggering rate. Mankind is anything but kind. For a man with so much talent, with an absolutely angelic face and a beautiful voice, he became a monster constantly running from himself.

The science of dead celebrities

L. Hess Fulton,NY — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:49:28 GMT

He was a great artist and i will miss him,i grew up listening to him and hs music brings many fond memories of different times all through my life.after all isnt that what music is all about

The science of dead celebrities

Glynn Hebert, Lafayette, LA — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:54:12 GMT

So much sorrow for the close friends and family of Michael Jackson. And my condolences for the families of Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, Billy Mays, Karl Malden. While I am a fan of all of the above, life will go on. I am so blessed not to have lived my life so vicariously thru the life of a celebrity. A private burial would have been sufficient. All of the hoopla @ the Staples Center is not necessary. Why are we not focusing on the present state of our nation? Priorities, please.....

The science of dead celebrities

P.B.inLosAngeles Los Angeles, CA. — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:55:12 GMT

Any canonization of an artist is misdirected at best. However, as often as not people (read: fans) read a lot more meaning - and perceive substance where none exists - into things that the artists never intended; see John Lennon: “We're more popular than Jesus now; I don’t know which will go first; rock 'n' roll or Christianity”
Anyway, the fact is that as long as an artist with MJ's capabilities and possibilities remains in our world, the chance of something artistically special being once again created, is possible; with his passing, that chance is lost. Michael Jackson was many things to many different people, but what cannot be denied is that artistically, he was a genius and the potential for the special art he was capable of producing will be missed. May he rest……

The science of dead celebrities

Omega the Unstar Struck Guy Denver CO — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:55:20 GMT

I follow Johnny Depp's take on his own fame and 'celebrity'.

He said "I am just an average guy with a really cool job." or something to that effect.

I think that is the only healthy way to look at actors, singers, athletes and other performers.

The science of dead celebrities

Ali, Dubai — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:58:08 GMT

I guess its a matter of insecurity. I do not understand why to give so much attention to a celebrity when your troops are being defeated in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The science of dead celebrities

Theresa Cochran — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:03:56 GMT

I don't understand how people can say he was a child molester, when he was acquitted. Have they ever been accused of something they didn't do. This was on a grander stage. Like his brother Jermaine said, the world was not ready for such an enlightened person. Michael Jackson evolved beyond the understanding for the average person. [...]

The science of dead celebrities

Greg, CDA, Idaho — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:04:41 GMT

It will do no good to say it to the diehards, but you need to get a life of your own. MJ was a great performer, but it ends there. He was a human being with many of the same faults, and a few more manufactured ones, but flawed as we all are. So go out, love your family and friends, and become the best human that YOU can be.

The science of dead celebrities

William J. Green, New York, NY — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:05:38 GMT

Fascinating that Michael is referred to as MJ. In the sports world, indeed most of the entire world, MJ refers to Michael Jordan. Now there's a real talent that literally soared.

I echo the kudos for Michael's music and dancing. He made sure that the girls who just want to have fun, did, and the boys who wanted to have fun with the girls who wanted to, did, too. And hence, many of us had fun together and likely will still.

But sadly, "fun" has usurped meaning, purpose, service to others, deference, and giving others a hand up. "Fun" and the ability to provide it has become more of a litmus test for "admiration" and fawning than character, integrity, fidelity, charity, kindness, generosity, and love. Michael provided a context and musical milieu for fun, had fun doing so, and arguably had too much "fun" playing with children. But we had too much fun singing along with him, imitating his dance moves, and grooving to his beat to care or criticize sufficient to stop him.

Laud his musical genius. Rue his self-absorbed, spendthrift ways and his boundary-crossing behavior with children. Pity his "nature," "nurture," and "numbing" experiences with sychophants, wanna-be's, leeches, and voyeurs; he was a product of all and his lifestyle is not to be emulated nor extolled. He may have had an excuse to live as he did, but not a virtuous reason.

Let the family bury their dead. Let them mourn, grieve, and remember their son, brother, father, and uncle. Let the rest of us celebrate his music, learn from the mistakes of his life, and do one thing every month of our life, if not more frequently, to ensure one other person, just one, experiences not just fun, but lasting kindness, hope, joy, dignity, and affirmation. With or without a moon walk.

The science of dead celebrities

Laurel Kornfeld — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:06:41 GMT

To TommyB53: I guess in your view if enough people buy some junk snake oil that a con artist has convinced them will make them look younger or lose weight, that con artist deserves the millions too. Drug dealers offer a product many people buy; in your view they deserve their millions as well. Sorry, but the "free market economy" isn't God. Look at the results of the "free market" when regulations were lifted--massive abuses in the worlds of banking, finance, housing, etc. My way of "dealing with it," as you put it, is to fight this phenomenon with all that I am and all that I have. And before you call me a communist, you should know I am a firm believer in democracy. However, unrestrained capitalism is not democracy. And the freedom our soldiers are fighting for includes freedom to speak out against these abuses and lead boycotts against them. If the American people turned off their TVs and started reading and actually using their brains, they would really that those who do the most good for society--medical researchers, scientists, social workers, veterans--are the only ones who truly deserve the millions. If they want to stay brain dead and keep supporting snake oil sales people, it's this whole country's loss.

I'll go for the Beatles instead: "You say you want a revolution..." It's about time!

The science of dead celebrities

JIm GH,OH — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:30:57 GMT

One has to wonder how big a deal this would have been if he didn't have the tour coming up. He was out of the public eye except for the occasional news blurb for at least the last decade.
I don't mourn his death because he was nothing to me. I enjoyed the entertainment but I enjoy a lot of music and movies and my only connection is the money I pay to see or hear it.
There are a lot more important people that have done much more for humanity than MJ but when they pass there is a quick note and nothing more. Even a dead Pope doesn't get this much press.
The funny thing is we watched as Farrah passed and there was a pretty big deal made of it until MJ died then all other news came to a screeching halt. McNair is shot and killed and you might see a new headline once in a while updating the investigation, this happened three days ago. MJ died 13 days ago and at minimum there are 10 stories running just on MSNBC.
News is no longer reported, it is created so they can milk every single dollar out of it that they possibly can. MJ's worth more now than he was alive and Elvis was still the highest money making entertainer years after his death.
This man died by his own hand just like any other junkie on the street. We have not built a high enough pedestal to keep the drugs away from him. You have a spoiled man boy that surrounded himself with yes people and it ended the way you would expect it to end. He lived an excessive eccentric lifestyle but we celebrate and mourn him like he was the second coming.
Once the tears are dried and all the tributes are done all you will have is your dreary job and life to go back to, if you are fortunate enough to have a job. There is no Neverland Ranch in your future so live your life to the fullest and stop doing it vicariously through other people.
Pop culture has taken over as the most important aspect of life. It is used to raise your kids and shape them into disrespectful whiny brats because life doesn't mimic the world of Hannah Montana. Tickets for sporting events are through the roof. Your current television is not good enough. It goes on and on and bleeds you dry and now another millionaire is dead and we are going to celebrate him.
By the way, the country is still in a recession and the unemployment rate is still above 9%. Put as much effort into your own community as you do mourning dead celebrities and we might make change for the good on this rock we call home.

The science of dead celebrities

ade, lagos, lagos — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:33:25 GMT

i love mj and i dont believe the stories about the child molestation. his music is inspiring and if he made so much money out of it, it shouldnt be an issue. rip mj.

The science of dead celebrities

Pat , Dallas, Texas — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:34:57 GMT

What a total waste of money (gold casket, etc.) What good use could have been made of it to heal children or feed the poor. I feel the same way about the elaborate expense of the Pope and Rome and the Church edifices here in the US. Where are our priorities?

The science of dead celebrities

burl pilgrim fort worth texas — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:40:05 GMT

good by michael

The science of dead celebrities

Adriana Aguiar, Ecuador — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:42:46 GMT

He has been a great singer and a great person is really painfull know that we don´t have him anymore, I remember when my mom used to play his songs, I remember the first vinil disk we have.... We are gonna miss him forever...

The science of dead celebrities

Melanie — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:46:16 GMT

I agree that our society has it's priorities bass ackwards. We celebrate and condone those who fail us time and time again. Having said that, I, personally, think that we should be able to celebrate the the person's accomplishments and life when mourning their death. John F. Kennedy was a huge womanizer and has had his presidency scrutinized for choices he made. yet most in our society holds him in high esteem for his legacy he left behind. Elvis had a myriad of problems but is still regarded as "The King". Those of us who mourn the celebrities we love, mourne their good legacy and let God judge the rest.

The science of dead celebrities

kay lith, illinois — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:23:09 GMT

i agree with bill w. enough already and why does it have to be played on every station, not everyone really cares to watch

The science of dead celebrities

Benst, Albany, NY USA — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:24:44 GMT

As long as people know the facts about famous people they admire, (their faults and their positive attributes), I don't see it being a problem; Unless it's taken to the extreme. A fan of Thomas Edison, Leonardo daVinci, Albert Einstein might be inspired to do good and achieve something important. I was not born a Christian, but, Karen Anne Carpenter (drummer/singer) had such an impact on my life, I converted and I am glad that I did so. Most fans do know the difference between admiration and idol worship-turning a celebrity into a demigod.

The science of dead celebrities

KevinLisa — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:25:38 GMT

Michael Jackson had a great deal of talent. I grew up listening to his music and was always blown away by his ability to entertain. But I certainly would not mourn for him the way I would a family member or close friend. I do however feel a great deal of pity for his children. They certainly will always have enough money, but let's face it, they will now be raised by the same people who turned Michael into the sad emotionally disturbed man he was.

The science of dead celebrities

K R PARKHILL — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:31:39 GMT

IF MICHAEL JACKSONS LIFE AND DEATH SERVE ANY REAL PURPOSE TO MOST OF US..IT IS TO DEMONSTRATE THE COMPLETE LACK OF CONNECTIVITY THAT FORTUNE,FAME ,AND WEALTH HAVE TO ANYONES HAPPINESS OR FEELINGS OF FULFILMENT.

The science of dead celebrities

Nancy, Lynn, Ma — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:33:11 GMT

It's a terrible spectacle. He was a great entertainer with way too many issues. I cannot believe even in death he could not have his privacy but at least not for profit this time, at least not his. This man was not a president or even a princess, he was a singer and dancer who escaped the justice system due to his enormous wealth. Shame on this society for it's adoration of him and allowing him to escape what would have put any "average joe" in jail.

The science of dead celebrities

Anne Young, St. Louis, Missouri — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:45:52 GMT

I think that a lot of what's been said in this string can be put in the category of "agenda setting", which is a fundamental theory in mass communication study. We allow our media to tell us what to think about and who is important instead of us dictating what we want to see and hear. Clearly this is a situation where our media is telling us what to think about (Jackson's passing) and "giving us what we want", because they told us his passing is the most important event of the moment.

Anyone watching that crazy Tour de France? Lance Armstrong is back. *waves hands around* DISCUSS!

The science of dead celebrities

nancy b, Anaheim, CA — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:48:16 GMT

We had 40 years of wonderful music from Michael Jackson. In 40 years of wonderful music, at LEAST one of his songs had to have touched a part of each of us. Putting the young man on a pedestal and then knocking him down when he didn't live up to everyone's expectations (which were WHAT?) -- what a sad, sad way for him to live the last few years of his life. He was not aware of how important he was. Rest in peace Michael Jackson...

The science of dead celebrities

j totowa, nj — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 19:25:36 GMT

Focus on Jesus, He is coming soon. He alone is King of Kings. The only way to heaven is through Jesus. I am sorry for MJ passed, but anyone ever think or ask if MJ is in heaven or hell. It is not good for a men to gain the world if he looses his soul.

The science of dead celebrities

Thomas Ashby — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 19:27:58 GMT

The coming together of our like-mindedness I think points to the true reason why so many are drawn to the memorial. It is a reflection of our common humanity even if our lives bear little or no resemblance to each other in how we live life. It is cathartic.

MJ lived larger than life and people respect that even if you didn't buy any of his recordings.

The science of dead celebrities

Thomas Ashby — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 19:36:21 GMT

..Also, the world becomes a somewhat lonlier place when people like MJ leave it. I think that is why humans come together at such times.

The science of dead celebrities

Charla'- York, Pa. — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:16:03 GMT

Celebities/Stars are human like the rest of us.The difference is that they market their talents for the world to see and enjoy. They provide the rest of us with various venues of entertainment. How boring and depressing the world would be if the only media coverage would be about wars, politics, the economy etc. Celebrities give us an "escape" from the real world. They brighten our world with their many talents, trials, and tribulations. Their deaths end their future creativites -it is in that respect that they will be missed. Farewells and funerals are societies way to help those grieving the loss. May Michael's family and friends find comfort from the out pouring of love that has surrounded them at this difficult time.

The science of dead celebrities

John Doe — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:23:00 GMT

i'm sad MJ's gone, but somehow, his passing away, is like GOD'S slap to the face of MEDIA, when all the world was focused on IRAN, GOD slapped and said, don't u guys have anything better to do than project a country's internal problem?

The science of dead celebrities

sue n. Buffalo NY — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:26:22 GMT

I personally grew up with Michael Jackson and did share my love of his music with my son. He has continued that with his own love of music...this was a beautiful tribute to a very very talented person. Being talented and using that talent to help others is to be respected. However, to "salute" him as the US Congresswoman Lee of Texas did is totally out of touch with the "real" world. Save it for our troops, the true givers in our world. They give their lives, hence a salute. Shame on her!!!

The science of dead celebrities

Noro, Harlem, U.S.A. — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:28:48 GMT

What saddens me is the fact that most people want to believe something distorted or wrong about a person who has achieved a lot in life, especially if they themselves have never achieved much in life. True at various times we may pay too much attention to stars and the like, but human nature is to love and have fun, as a result you seek to be entertained and in various ways. You pay for entertainment in most venues. Michael Jackson was a top, if not the top entertainer of all time! That being the case in a free democratic society, he earned millions. Just like most people would like and love to do at some point in their lives. However, most of us do not possess the raw natural talent that commands the attention that Michael Jackson evokes when he picks up the mic and cuts a smooth groove move! People pay for that level of entertainment and do it on a regular basis. Whether they are going to a sporting event or a concert! Further, all of those who have bad and sad things to say about Mr. Jackson, I'm sure do not have any talent at all and if so, not the kind that will garnish any notice from anyone but themselves. As for the pedophile statements from those individuals who think they know what had gone on with his accusers, please try and pay attention to the facts! The children came forward to say, now as adults, that their parents put them up to it, all for money! I notice that none of you are calling for the prosecution of those individuals. I wonder why not!?

The sad thing about our nation in respect to this and other people and events of note, is that most people are not intelligent enough to distinguish fact from fiction. As said by the late and great Norman Mailer;
Fifty one percent of the American people are stupid. Mr. Jackson is and always will be an ICON of historic proportions!

Rest in peace Michael, my brother, we will always love you and everything that you have done for us all!

The science of dead celebrities

Unnecessary, dallas,tx — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:51:04 GMT

MICHEAL JACKSON WAS THE GREATEST ENTERTAINER OF ALL TIMES. Funny how people think the media is over doing his death, but this is the same media that attempted to crucify him in life. NO ONE knows this mans life or his life experiences better than himself and GOD. Which is the ONLY one who can judge Michael or anyone else who has an opinion about him. It's also funny that all of you UNINTERESTED folk want to comment, yet keeping the very thing you want to die ALIVE! We love you Michael, may you rest in peace!!!

The science of dead celebrities

jane doe — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:56:47 GMT

Idols are absurd in any way, shape, or form. MJ was a superb entertainer, perhaps the best ever. It saddens me that he's gone, because his presence in this world was a constant in my life. He was a part of my life. Also, and on the other hand, however flawed and bizarre he might have been, he was a human being, a fragile human being forced to stand on a pedestal. I am disgusted with all those who mocked him and hated him, and the media in particular for making a vile and shameless circus out of his problems, out of many "celebrities'" problems. Paparazzi should be illegal, and gossip magazines who scream slander should be erradicated. MJ was a man, a misunderstood and troubled man, like many of us. May he be at peace and have found true love and comfort in the arms of god.

The science of dead celebrities

perciv7, denver, colorado — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 21:06:46 GMT

it is not god nor a saint. michael jackson have something in him, unique than anybody else. michael lives on unless someone better than mj comes up in the future. but michael is now immortal for that is the way we feel about him.
thanks michael

The science of dead celebrities

Sharon O — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 21:10:36 GMT

People are upset over the lack of coverage for Farrah Fawcett and Ed McMahon. Farrah had received her last rites that morning thus most of us were expecting her to pass before noon. The last image I saw of Ed McMahon made me think that his days were numbered; No one saw the death of Michael Jackson coming. That is why you have the outpouring of coverage. This happens all the time. Mother Teresa died on September 5th but it was overshadowed by the death of Princess Diana (who had died six days before). Sammy Davis and Jim Henson died on the same day but Henson got most of the attention because no one saw it coming -- Sammy had been diagnosed with cancer and we knew that his time was limited. John Ritter and Johnny Cash died one day apart. When the younger celebrities die, it not only shocks us but it also makes us more aware of our own mortality.

The science of dead celebrities

J. Cabral-Jones, Decatur, GA — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 21:15:34 GMT

Ditto to comments from Bell, La. And let me add:
Many years ago when Michael was still with the Jackson 5, a girl wrote a letter to a popular soul magazine at the time about the downside of his superstar status. Although I was only about 10 or so, I remember the letter, because the sentiment was profound yet simple enough to understand and it is so appropriate now. She described how even though Michael was rich, there were many things that he could not buy. For instance, she described how her little brother could go to McDonald's with a group of his friends, but Michael could not. The same with a movie theater. Her brother could join his neighborhood Little League team, yet Michael could not. Finally, he could go to an amusement park all day with his friends, yet Michael could not. She closed with lines from the song, "Express Yourself": "Some people have everything and some people don't. But everything isn't anything if you don't have what you wan't." Peace and a sense of contentment, so necessary for every human being to feel whole...eluded the Manchild who had "everything." May he finally be at peace.

The science of dead celebrities

Michael, Tampa FL — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 21:40:52 GMT

Perhaps the fan equates the fragile mortality they themselves experience and fear; claiming a person considered by them as immortal. If death claims the celebrity, beleived to be 'above' natures laws and in the eyes of the fan; the celebrity is 'immortal'. By claiming a celebrity, death becomes the common experience to be experienced by celebrity and non-celebrity alike. Death becomes the 'equalizer', rendering the celebrity equally as mortal as the fan. Death becomes the 'commonizer' between fan and celebrity, and the pedestal where the celebrity once existed for the fan is suddenly removed. The celebrity, formally regarded as 'imortal' by the fan suddenly becomes the fan's equal; and whose life was once considered 'God-like' is suddenly reduced to the 'common-man' status.

The science of dead celebrities

JAH, TX — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 21:59:23 GMT

Our society is based on living off of glamour and celebrities and what they do in their personal life,I know losing someone is hard but that is apart life. I'm just tired of seeing the media bending over backwards for celebrity life than fallen soldiers,or the hard working and poor Americans who struggle in the recession.

The science of dead celebrities

sue n. Buffalo NY — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 22:31:43 GMT

The science of dead celebrities

Laurel Kornfeld — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 22:34:05 GMT

"Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow
creeps in its petty pace from day to day
to the last syllable of recorded time.

And all our yesterdays have lighted fools
the way to dusty death.

Out, out brief candle!
Life is but a walking shadow,
a poor player who struts and frets his hour upon the stage
and then is heard no more.

It is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury,
signifying nothing."

Shakespeare, MacBeth, Act 5, final scene

The science of dead celebrities

Barbara, Murfreesboro, TN — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 23:00:56 GMT

Yes I too was offended as well by the "salute". She had no business doing that. Michael Jackson although a great performer led a life that HE chose, let me repeat that, HE chose. The person who said the Judge caused him pain is wrong, Michael caused his own pain by his own lifestyle, 50 year old men do NOT sleep with young boys. They spent 3 hours immortalizing him as if he were a "god" and if that helps them fine but he was no hero in my book. My heroes are the one's who wear the uniform that lay down their lives everyday to keep us free, let's see them do a 3 hour tribute to them!

The science of dead celebrities

CCClemons — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 23:01:05 GMT

From a wonderful country song, "Its not what you take when you leave this world behind you, its what you leave behind you when you are gone".

Michael Joe Jackson, left behind good deeds that will last a life time for many.

Let's not idolize him, but admire, appreciate and remember the humanity of his being and the joy and talent that he shared with us.

I'm looking to the man in the mirror, Im asking him to change his ways..... If you want to make the world a better place take a look at yourself and make the change".

What have we as individuals done lately to do that?

He was not a god. He was a man. I thank God for the man he endowed with gifts and talents, that knew exactly what to do with them, SHARE, GIVE, LOVE, and yes he did.

May God Bless you Michael. We will miss you.

The science of dead celebrities

ydmc, TX — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 23:16:47 GMT

Our "own" contrived, artificially influenced, ideals of what is real or truth are woefully inadequate and lead to death. In a cloud of deception millions live daily, and will die for that same lie. I.E. "The science of dead celebrities". There is no science at all. Every human must be separated from the vehicle used to transport us through the realm of time. After separation has taken place the true being is immediately entered into the realm of eternity. Now and I mean right now, Micheal is not dead at all. Let me be clear...I don't mean his spirit is with us...I just told you where his spirit, and the spirit of every human that has ever left the realm of time is. Micheal is in eternity, and in eternity there are no "celebrities" or "common-folk". There are two classes of human in eternity and well as time for that matter, believers and unbelievers. Believers of the truth or unbelievers of the truth. Those who are believers go to the truth, those who are not go to the lie. It is best written in the gospel..For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God didn't send his Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world should be saved through him. He who believes in him is not judged. He who doesn't believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the one and only Son of God. This is the judgment, that the light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the light; for their works were evil.

The science of dead celebrities

Mark Serbin — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:29:19 GMT

Today the broadcast networks, cable 'news' stations and few other misc. cable stations all broadcast the Jackson memorial service. Why? While Mr. Jackson was a talented singer and a gifted dancer, his best days were 20 years ago. His personal issues are being largely ignored, and must be taken into account when deciding to give this much air time to one person. 8 hours would have been fine and fitting. But over a week? Come on now.
I know that TV media has changed over the last 29 years. Even allowing for the changes I do not remember John Lennon, George Harrison,or Jerry Garcia getting anywhere this type of coverage or hype. Will the media give the same air time when Paul McCartney, Ringo, or Keith Richards and Mick Jagger pass away? I doubt it. The contribution of these musicians far outweigh anything that Mr. Jackson contributed to popular culture.

I am afraid that we have turned in to a nation/world of short-attention-span theater, intellectually dumbed down, politically passive celebrity worshipers. What a shame.

The science of dead celebrities

Kevin Ellis Davis — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 01:05:25 GMT

Many people on here say (metaphorically) "I grew up with Michael Jackson." Well...I (literally) grew up with him, as my dad knew Joe Jackson and used to take me to the Jackson home in Tarzana, and while he and Joe talked, drank, played cards, or whatever they did...I was sent out to the driveway to shoot hoops with Michael, Tito, and the rest of the "Five". One day, when the very short-lived play session was abruptly ended by Joe sternly ordering the boys to get back inside and "go to work" (meaning get back to practicing their act), my dad commented to Joe that maybe he needed to lighten up a bit and let them have more fun....to which Joe replied, "I am NEVER going back to Gary, Indiana." Enough said. I estimate that was around 1970, and I think it was the last time I ever saw Michael.

The science of dead celebrities

John Powell, Rancho Cordova, CA — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 01:27:14 GMT

We used to celebrate our warriors, and perhaps by extension war itself.

Now we celebrate our minstrels, those who make us smile.

Maybe this is not a bad thing after all.

JP

The science of dead celebrities

Ashleigh — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 03:12:02 GMT

A lot of it is the media. Michael Jackson is a "story," and a money-making headline. It might sound bad, but while the editors of gossip tabloids maybe felt sad about his death, they also knew it was big money for them as they put out their M.J. Memorial issues on newstands. And the media is sooooo gossip-hungry anyways... they just eat this stuff up. It's like fuel to a fire. I've been somewhat intrigued by Jackson's life (mostly because it seemed very sad), but astonished by the amount of media coverage his death has received!! Every night, there is some sort of M.J. special and it's just the same things over and over and over. The media reminds me of a bunch of obsessive teen-agers! I have never understood frenzied fans to begin with. I have never gone crazy like that over any celebrity. And I've never understood the obsession some people have with celebs. People idealize celebs, and seriously, I think they "worship" them and envy their lives (fame, wealth, beauty, etc), even though many celebs have very real and sad struggles (divorce, loneliness, addictions, etc). I also think it's sad and wrong to elevate M.J. above other people. His death is no less and no more sad than anyone else's death. There are good people who die every day who don't get the recognition M.J. has received, but it doesn't matter. They were loved by others and they lived and loved, and their deaths are just as sad as M.J.'s, and I'm sure moreso for their loved ones. It'll be interesting to see what happens in a week or so. I guarantee that this has been in big part about money and ratings for media, and they will move on to their next big story eventually, but right now there are not a lot of big stories, so they have really hyped this one alot. It's sad that M.J. has died. I mostly feel sad for his kids. But the obsession of media and his fans has been disturbing and strange.

The science of dead celebrities

Michael — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 03:36:53 GMT

Michael was an entertainer, nothing more. Entertainers are a dime a dozen. He was a man that lived his life in excess. Neverland. Clothing. Recluse. Hiding his and his kids faces. Speaking of faces, his was manipulated in excess, to the point his nose fell off. Do I believe he engaged in sex with minors... yes. Cash can manipulate any jury. His music? It was cute. Nothing worthy of superstar status. It was pop crap. Is that genius? I think not. He danced well, but that doesn't warrant genius status. Jackson 5 songs... they were 'cute'. But deep? Pl-ease. I do feel sorry for the dude, don't get me wrong. But he was mal-adjusted. Mental issues. I remember the battle of the pop bands... the Jacksons vs. the Osmond’s. The music was all crap. Catchy tunes, OK. Equating his talent to such bands like Pink Floyd, Emerson Lake and Palmer, Yes, The Beatles... the list goes on and on. I mourned John Lennon. He... he was by all means talented. Michael Jackson, well, his talent was... crap. Catchy tunes, sure. Nothing beyond that. It's amazing how swiftly the world forgets his sick pedophile 'izm'. Do I think he engaged in pedophile acts? Yes, I do. How many people invite kids to share their beds. Did he partake in chemically altered states? Of course he did. I don't want to disrespect the deceased, but the facts are the facts. I can't believe the world has turned a blind eye. Just a short while ago his ass was in court with that molestation case. Why did he get off? Money talks. If the same thing happened to a 'regular citizen', they'd be in jail. I just can’t help it. How quickly we forget and forgive. He's done so many f-upped things with himself. Hanging his kid out the window. Marrying how many women and rapidly divorcing them. And what about those facial mutilations. His nose was cut a hundred times. He whitened his skin. Dumped the afro. Squared the chin. I mean... WTF. I don't know exactly what he did with his skin. But whatever it was, it was a sign of a psychiatric patient. His hi-strung voice. What was up with that. Michael Jackson was a deeply disturbed individual. The only songs I enjoyed from him were when he was in the Jackson 5. I think he croaked from the stress he suffered trying to be something he wasn't. How people are so sad over him I can't understand. He was a person. A disturbed person, but none the less a person. Not an angel, not a demon. His talent, it was average. What, because he could dance? Please. The songs he wrote? The lyrics? Absolute pop music. If you're into that kind of mindless crap, then so be it. But, the fact remains, pop music is absolutely talentless. I mean, how much skill goes into writing a song Ben (a song about rats), or Thriller. My 11 year old son writes better tunes than that. All the media hype is unwarranted. A few mentions on the news would be more than sufficient. Farah Fawcett deserves equal attention. It's so ironic, when George Harrison passed, there was practically no media coverage. And John Bonham. Same difference. A totally skilled performer, Mel Blank? I can't remember an iota mentioned about him. Pop music is not deserving of idol worship. I can't stand this crap. A little news coverage would be perfectly sufficient. Here today, gone tomorrow. This world really needs to get its priorities squared away. This man deserves an honorable mention. Nothing else. His talent was OK, nothing else. The whole damn thing makes my stomach churn.

The science of dead celebrities

J.F Indiana — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 03:40:38 GMT

He's in the ground.Everybody give it a rest,for Pete's sake.Enough!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The science of dead celebrities

Wade — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 07:45:08 GMT

I thought the whole day was almost circuslike instead of a memorial service. If the family wanted to share the event with the public, they might have televised it. People could have stayed home & watched it on TV. Lord knows there were plenty of networks willing to air it.

The science of dead celebrities

Gavreil, Queen Creek, Az — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 08:23:23 GMT

I seriously doubt the majorty having posted here are old enough to remember "Father Devine" a Negro preacher who insisted his being next to G_d in importancies. For nearly twenty years after Father Devine's natural death, his window sold multi thousands of blessed hangerchief at the price of $5.00+ each and having been sent direct to her from Father Devine in heaven. No doubt there will be those hearing from Mr. Jackson, but I hope its not another of those blessed hankerchiefs sales from heaven. However, may he be respectfully remembered and to rest in peace.

The science of dead celebrities

Jasmine, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 08:46:42 GMT

It is obvious to me that MJ gave his life to entertaining. God blessed him with great talent and he gave it back to the world. Millions of people love him, literally. Unfortunately the entertainment business is an evil business. You have to be strong-willed and really close to God to even survive as an adult let alone a child. There are temptations that are going to be around the STAR constantly. If MJ had the fantasy, immaturity, emotional, and physical problems the media is hounding about now its no wonder he is gone.
The media and entertainment field with chew a person up and spit them out whether or not you are as successful at it as MJ was. I'm sure he expected the people close to him to look out for his best interest and treat him as if they loved him but money hungry people will do whatever it takes to get ahead be it by backstabbing or betrayal. They will even enable a person sometimes knowing all to well that what they are enabling the person with could maim or even kill them.
MJ can now rest in peace. He does not have to worry anymore about who is real or fake. Who loves him and who doesn't. Because only God can give a man, woman or child the love they deserve.

The science of dead celebrities

Free Dove, Los Angeles, Ca. — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 09:11:08 GMT

I grew up with the Jackson Five & Temptations. I remember my Aunt taking my Cousin and I to Richmond Va, to see the Jackson Five. I was in love with Michael Jackson like every young girl my age at that time. Also, I was nuts about Dennis Edwards of the Temptations and I use to switch sometimes and like Eddie Kendricks and Paul Winfield.

Well Eddie Kendricks died, I felt bad, Paul Winfield died, I felt bad, when Minnie Riperton died, I really felt bad. However, When my Mother and Father died, I felt like almost dying. Grace is Amazing, because if it wasn't for the grace, love and mercy of GOD, I don't know how I would have made it through that grief and pain.

I was absolutely nuts about Michael Jackson when I was a kid and the Jackson Five, I use to get in fights because my other playmates would say Michael Jackson was their boyfriend. So we would get in kiddy cat fights to see who would win. I won, I had 6 brothers, I knew how to fight.

I watched Michael Jackson grow as I grew. I'd sit down and listen to his albums because I loved certain songs He created. Along with Earth, Wind and Fire, The Ohio Players, Kool and the Gang, Chick Corea, Billy Cobham, Minnie Riperton, Stevie, Smokey, Elton John, Billy Joel, Queen, Angela Bofill, Flora Purim, Randy Crawford, Dee Dee Bridgewater and I could go on and on.

Then I would go into my Parents Album stash, and listen to Dinah Washington, Lou Rawls, Barbra Streisand, Dionne Warwick when she was working with Burt Bacharach and Hal David, Count Basie, Gloria Lynn, Vicky Carr, anyone remember her, Fantastic voice, The Duke of course, Nat King Cole, Chick Webb, Ella, Sarah, Billie Holiday, Bird, Thelonius Monk, John Coltrane, Aretha Franklin, Miles Davis, Tommy Dorsey, Frank Sinatra, Engelbert Humperdink, Tom Jones, Tony Bennet, Mahailia, James Cleavland, and I can go on and on....

I am naming all incredible Artists in their own right. I like to call them Artists because that is what they are to me. I enjoy their musical creations because it inspires me. I enjoy their voices and the stories told through song. Some who I've named have passed on and some still living and I listen to all of them still, the same way I listened when I was a child.

I've read the stories of their lives, some lived longer and some died young, and the ones still living are going strong well into their sixties, seventies and eighties. No one can decide their destiny when it is time to die.

However, one can decide how they want to live and I believe it does have a bearing on ones longevity. The choices we make have consequences either good or bad it depends on the road we choose to take.

Michael Jackson was an incredible talent. He was a sweet child with an aching soul caught in a harsh cruel world where it seems He could not repel without using drugs as a vice to maybe numb the pain a bit. Michael Jackson's final death was on June 25th, however, He was long gone before that. Drugs are the Devil. They will take your light and kill your soul. It's the choices we make on how we want to live.

No one knows the struggle of "Celebrity" unless we walk in those shoes. It all looks and appears great on the outside looking in; however, we don't know what kind of Dark World the Entertainment Industry perpetuates to drive a sweet child with a giving heart from Indiana to turn to the destruction of Drugs.

The memorial service today was very nice. It's evident the affect Michael Jackson had on the people all over. However, we must remember all things. I never was concerned about all the allegations, I felt it was a lynch mob, Santa Barbara County? Come on let's get real. Michael was doing too good and having too much success, money and power. It was a conspiracy to bring Him down. In this excessive drug use that finally claimed his life, it's sad to see great talented artists go out like this.

I am glad the media covered this and I hope all especially young people can learn even at Michael Jackson's memorial, He's still giving and letting all people know that Drugs are not the way.

I pray that God will take care of his family in this time of grief and pain like He took care of me.

The science of dead celebrities

tpf. Nashville, Tn. — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:03:21 GMT

Not a MJ fan but I will make one quick observation. Millions of fans will get up every Sun., or millions of fans three times a day will bow their bodies or heads and worship guys that's been dead over 2000 yrs. It sure does wanna make you sing,"Stop the world I want to get off."

The science of dead celebrities

mary wilkinson, ephrata washington — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 13:56:49 GMT

I personally think stars and media persons become idols to a vast majority of the people because they live a life style that most would like to have-so it is envy, and way they live their lives that attract attention. In a way, they are hunted for stories which sell all for money-it is sad in a way that a famous person who may be a wonderful singer, dancer, and recording artist can not find even a small bit of privacy-I personally sympathize with the Jackson Family because he did die to young--but he was human and a father and because of the fans, media everything he did was overblown-I can think of several persons who have died who had some of the same problems with the constant peering into their private lives. I personally think that this media circus is a sad statement of our culture and value system. There are many honorable, talented persons in the world without the media's knowledge of them and they can go have a picnic with their kids etc without camera and news people discussing what they ate at their picnic. Michael Jackson was a human and not God-somehow the media circus has tried to make him one.

The science of dead celebrities

M Allen, Wausau, WI — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 15:22:57 GMT

The attention of the media and the public to his passing is just over the top. WHO CARES? Thank God TCM plays movies so I can watch something on TV. Even MSNBC and CNBC are full of this nonsense. I don't want to know about his life, his death, or his farewell services. Stop already!

The science of dead celebrities

Lisa Cameron — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 20:27:42 GMT

When I read the article "Fooled by Faces" it called to mind an incident I had when I was 16 and a waiter in a local restaurant. A couple came in and the man was SO familiar to me (I could picture myself as a child perched on his friendly knee), that I asked him if he knew me or recognized me as I was sure he must be a long lost uncle, or some other elusive family friend. When my name, etc., didn't ring a bell to him, his wife finally leaned forward and urged him to clarify the situation and it turned out the man was Ernie Coombs, better known as "Mr. Dressup". It was a big ahah! moment and a shock to think that I felt so close to this man whom I'd never met!

The science of dead celebrities

harvey valdez, the middle, of Kansas — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 22:54:42 GMT

Everyone needs a god, not everyone realizes that they need a god, nor does everyone realize that the One True God is the God of all things, The God of Yeshua our saviour. One of His commandments was 'thou shalt not make for thyself and idol to worship' The tie or connection some people seem to have to celebrities is that they Idolize them, most of the time without even realizing it.

The science of dead celebrities

H.S MTL , QUE — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 03:05:07 GMT

It is sad to see Micheal had to die the way he did, he wanted to make his last performance and call it quit ;but all that change in the twink of an eye.One may say the Lord give and the Lord takest away ;but The Lord do not make mistakes, he sure did not take Michael away man did this to him. He wanted to live despite all that was said about him, he wanted to live more than anyone can believe. Just remember he had three beautiful children and love them with his heart. He was rob of his childhood and wanted to be there for his children, to make a difference he keep them away from the public eyes . People will always find ways to discredit others it doesn't matter how hard one tries they will never do enough , if you give your heart they will ask for you eye or another part of your body and that what many people knows. we human begin never satified it doesn't matter what anyone says, he was a human begin with feeling and all the good he has done he will be remember for his beautiful smile and amazing dance and that gift that God has given to him . He has not been able to tell us every thing but he was suffering and the last few years really hurt him the love for children cast him. His dignity, it almost destroy him ;but he was going to make a come back he was hurt. Who has not been hurt and been accuse of things that is not true let me say this even Jesus who did not sin and was accuse of wrong doing so Michael is just another one if only he had people to pray for him throughout his trial it would of make a different; but who is to say if there wasn't people praying after what was said he had great friends and loving ones to. People cared for him mean while he had lots of enemies; but again he was going to put it all behind him. Joseph was thrown into a pit for his coat, put in prison because he refuse to sleep with potiphar's wife . Michael knew what he wanted ;but not many understood him so sad I feel for his children. May God protect them and those whome he intrust them with I pray that the family will soon put it all behind them to , the judge who wanted to pull him down he should have his consence check if he has any, also the father of the son who accused him of wrong doing ,One must know God an read his word Michael was always praying. That's what make him strong not many understood that. He knew God the one whome has given him strength. I pray he is in his hands now, God, may he have the peace that he so desire. May his spirit have rest now in you. GOD IS GOOD HIS MERCY ENDURETH FOREVER.....

The science of dead celebrities

Clarence A. Dillman — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 01:00:03 GMT

I was working in Manned Operations Control Room 3, NASA Houston. Memories of a lifetime!

The science of dead celebrities

Sarah, ABQ NM — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 23:02:18 GMT

I agree with "Charla'- York, Pa." Most of us are aware of all the horrible crap going on in the world. But you can only take so much of that. At some point in life, you got to live, have fun, escape. To say MJ was "just a performer" down-plays how important the arts and talent is. We celebrate talent because it's rare, not everyone can sing, paint, play music, etc. MJ had loads of talent. I also don't think he was as "weird" as the media made him out to be. He worked and performed since he was a small child. That has to have an affect on a person, but that doesn't mean he was weird. I don't believe he was a child molester either. If your kid was molested by someone, would you settle for a large sum of money or would you see that justice was served?

The science of dead celebrities

Debbie Houston Tx — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 00:13:59 GMT

in response to H .S. MTL ,QUE: When Michael was going thru his trial the ONLY supporters were his FANS and Family

The science of dead celebrities

nada — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 19:26:37 GMT

Micheal Jackson radiated a state of pure bliss and enchantment through his music, he touched and lifted our souls, he was captivatingly magnetizing, no human has managed to imitate his dances with such impeccable fluidity and his voice indescribably soft and soothing to listen to. A true master peice of an artist created by God which only comes as often as a certain commet in the sky...a very rare species of such a human being. my favorite song was "will you be there". WHICH OTHER ARTIST HAS EXECUTED SUCH MUSIC?