Netflix is facing backlash on social media ahead of the release of its in-depth documentary about Michael Jackson’s trial.
Jackson, one of the most famous and beloved figures in pop culture of all time, was charged with multiNetflix’s new doc, “Michael Jackson: The Verdict”, revisits the case and features numerous key individuals who were inside the courtroom, including jurors, eyewitnesses, accusers, and defenders alike.ple counts of child molestation in 2003.
The trial set off a media firestorm and courtroom proceedings that captivated the world and kept him at the centre of headlines for months.
His acquittal on all counts only further stoked public interest, and questions remained over his innocence.
Netflix’s new doc, “Michael Jackson: The Verdict”, revisits the case and features numerous key individuals who were inside the courtroom, including jurors, eyewitnesses, accusers, and defenders alike.
Fans of the star have taken to social media to criticise Netflix over the timing of the doc’s release, which is coming just weeks after the release of his critically panned but highly profitable biopic.
“This is disgraceful from Netflix, every other studio is regretting that they passed on the Michael movie that ended up being a huge success. So they make this in retaliation to try and gain some money from it all? What a joke,” remarked one angry fan.
A second commented: “It was already decided that Michael was INNOCENT. If anyone really wants to decide without watching this sensationalist bulls**t, just read the court transcripts.”
“Wow, this man is still being exploited by people 17 years after his death,” tweeted a third.
While another added: “The media still trying to convict a man whose innocence has been proven an indescribable amount of times… you’re so pathetic for endorsing this.”
The series is directed by Nick Green and executive produced by Fiona Stourton, who say it felt like the right time to revisit the trial and its lingering questions. They approached it as a historical account, presenting the facts as they unfolded in court.
“It has been 20 years since the trial of Michael Jackson, in which he was found not guilty. Yet, to this day, controversy still rages,” the filmmakers told Netflix’s fan event Tudum. “No cameras were allowed in court, and so the public’s view of the facts at the time were filtered by commentators and presented piecemeal. It was time to take a forensic look at the trial as a whole.
“Anyone interested in the Michael Jackson story should feel this documentary gives them a window into what was largely a closed event and a chance to feel closer to what happened.”
Meanwhile, earlier this month, four siblings who once shared a close friendship with Jackson alleged that, behind closed doors, he was subjecting them to sickening child sexual abuse in a bombshell 60 Minutes Australia report.
