I was shocked by the news of Michael Jackson's passing yesterday. They say that everyone will remember exactly where they were when they heard of the King Of Pop's passing. I was stuck on a tube for near on two hours last night, and only heard of the news via email after I emerged at the tube stop nearest my house.Michael Jackson died from a heart attack, aged just fifty. He was due to play a huge 50 gig residency at London's O2 arena next month... Today tributes poured in...
"My brother, the legendary King of Pop, Michael Jackson passed away on Thursday June 25th, 2009 at 2.26pm. It is believed he suffered cardiac arrest in his home.
"Our family requests that the media please respects our privacy at this tough time.
"And may Allah be with you Michael, always. Love you." Jermaine Jackson.
"I can't stop crying over the sad news. I've always admired Michael Jackson - the world has lost one of its 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.
"I'm just devastated, very, very sad. I pray that his soul is up there now. I'm still trying to hold on to the glimmer that it is not true. It is too surreal for me to absorb that Michael is no longer with us.
"Michael was in good shape because he was practising, he was training, he was rehearsing for the shows. Michael was careful with what he ate, he was just fine. Last time I heard of what he was doing, he was in great shape. And this is why I'm so absolutely shocked by this news." Uri Geller, friend.
"I'm absolutely devastated at this news. I just don't have the words. Divinity brought our souls together and allowed us to do what we could do through the 80s.
"To this day that music is played in every corner of the world, and the reason is because he had it all - talent, grace and professionalism. I've lost my little brother today and part of my soul has gone with him." Quincy Jones, producer.
"I was lucky enough to know and work with Michael Jackson in his prime. Michael was an extraordinary talent and a truly great international star. He had a troubled and complicated life and despite his gifts, remains a tragic figure." John Landis, director of the Thriller music video.
"He was one of the most influential and iconic figures in the music industry.
"Our hearts go out to the Jackson family, Michael's children and to his fans worldwide." Arnold Schwarzenegger.
"We have lost a genius and a true ambassador of not only pop music, but of all music. I can't find the words right now to express how deeply saddened I am by Michael's passing.
"He has been an inspiration to multiple generations, and I will always cherish the moments I shared with him onstage 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.
All of us at The Hollywood News send our best wishes to his family and close friends. He will be missed.
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