Within hours of Michael Jackson’s death, actors, musicians and politicians were paying tribute to the ‘King of Pop’
“[Jackson’s death] is very sad news for the millions of Michael Jackson fans in Britain and around the world.”
– Gordon Brown, prime minister of Britain
“I come to the floor [of congress] today on behalf of a generation to thank God for letting all of us live in his generation and his era.”
– Jesse Jackson Jr., American politician and black community leader
“Today, the world has lost one of the most influential and iconic figures in the music industry. Michael was a pop phenomenon who never stopped pushing the envelope of creativity.”
– Arnold Schwarzenegger, former actor and current governor of California
“If even a small portion of the praise that is bestowed on Michael Jackson now in death was given to him last year, in life, he might well still be with us.”
– Robin Gibb, musician and member of the Bee Gees
“It’s so sad and shocking. He was a massively talented boy-man with a gentle soul. His music will be remembered forever and my memories of our time together will be happy ones.”
– Paul McCartney, musician who worked with Jackson before the “King of Pop” out-bid the former Beatle for his group’s music catalogue.
“I can’t stop crying over the sad news. I have always admired Michael Jackson. The world has lost one of the greats, but his music will live on forever. My heart goes out to his three children and other members of his family. God bless.”
— Madonna, entertainer
“I was so excited to see his show in London. We were going to be on tour in Europe at the same time and I was going to fly in to see him. He has been an inspiration throughout my entire life and I’m devastated he’s gone.”
– Britney Spears, entertainer
“This is such a tragic loss and a terrible day. The incomparable Michael Jackson has made a bigger impact on music than any other artist in the history of music. He was magic. He was what we all strive to be. Life is not about how many breaths you take, but about how many moments in life take your breath away. For anyone who has ever seen, felt, or heard his art, we are all honored to have been alive in this generation to experience the magic of Michael Jackson. I love you Michael.”
– Beyonce, entertainer
"I can’t find the words right now to express how deeply sadden [sic] I am by Michael’s passing. We have lost a genius and a true ambassador of not only pop music, but of all music. He has been an inspiration to multiple generations and I will always cherish the moments I shared with him on stage, and all of the things I learned about music from him and the time we spent together. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones."
– Justin Timberlake, entertainer
"I am so very sad and confused with every emotion possible. I am heartbroken for his children who I know were everything to him and for his family. This is such a massive loss on so many levels, words fail me."
– Lisa Marie Presley, ex-wife of Jackson
"I am absolutely devastated at this tragic and unexpected news. For Michael to be taken away from us so suddenly at such a young age, I just don’t have the words. He was the consummate entertainer, and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever. I’ve lost my little brother today and part of my soul has gone with him."
– Quincy Jones, producer who worked with Jackson
“My heart is overcome with sadness for the devastating loss of my true friend Michael. He was an extraordinary friend, artist and contributor to the world. I join his family and his fans in celebrating his incredible life and mourning his untimely passing.”
– Brooke Shields, actress
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