Jackson’s memorial service could turn out to be the “greatest show on earth”.Almost one million fans of the superstar are expected to make the pilgrimage to the Staples Center arena in Los Angeles on July 7, while 750 million more will be watching it on TV.
The Jackson family has confirmed that his send-off will feature performances and tributes from a galaxy of music legends.
There are plans to set up giant screens outside the vast 20,000-seater stadium for mourners who cannot get in.
Reports even suggest that US President Barack Obama has been sent an invitation.
Other people who are said to have been invited for Jacko’s last service include Sir Paul McCartney, singer Diana Ross, and screen legend Liz Taylor.
The ‘Thriller’ hit-maker will be buried in a rare 15,000 pounds 14-karat gold plated casket.
In 2002, when Jacko was asked what he thought his funeral would be like, he said that it would be the “greatest show on earth”.
"It's going to be the greatest show on earth. That's what I want. Fireworks and everything,” British tabloid The Sun quoted Jacko as saying then.
Brian Oxman, spokesman for the Jackson family, said: "It's going to be huge. Massive."
