I've been going around in my head about whether I wanted to write anything re: Michael Jackson's death, and decided that I would. In the other room, the TV is on with the special 2-hour 20/20 dedicated to the late great MJ, and Brian is yelling, "Who the fuck cares?" at random intervals. (His language, not mine.)
Well...lots of people, actually. Look, I know the man had some issues. Do I know the gory details? No. I know, along with most of the rest of the world, what TMZ/Perez Hilton/Hollywood Insider reported about him, and I get that he was strange. But hey, so were a lot, and I do mean a LOT, of our most respected historical and cultural figures, both ancient and contemporary. And, as the good old book says, judge not, lest...something or other.
Anyway. That being said, we have lost one of the most iconic figures of this age. I challenge you to find any area of contemporary culture that was not in some way influenced by the work of Michael Jackson. I specifically do not say "pop" culture, because I think his influence will be longer-lasting than much of what is today considered to be popular. How many of you spent hours in front of the mirror trying to perfect the Moonwalk, or sported a single, glittery glove? How many of you tittered behind your hands at his crotch grabbing, or shook your heads in bewilderment at his media antics? Whether you loved him or hated him, he was undeniably and unapologetically there. He was in your face, causing a scene, creating controversy, but most of all, you knew who he was, and you will remember him. In an entertainment culture that is characterized by well, its lack of character, MJ was most definitely a character.
Anyway...I could wax nostalgic all night, but I think I'll just leave it at that. Remember the man for the good things he did.
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