Michael Jackson’s estate recently announced that they will donate $300,000 to three charities in response to the Covid-19 outbreak, to assist communities that have been hard hit by the virus.
Among the charities that receive a donation from the Jackson estate, is Three Square Food Bank, Southern Nevada’s largest food bank. The other two charities are MusicCares and Broadway Cares, who will each receive a $100,000 donation.
“This virus strikes deep into the heart of the communities we are close to,” said John McClain and John Branca, who are co-executors of Michael Jackson’s estate.
The estate also announced the news that a musician who worked closely with Jackson on his hit, ‘Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’, has died from the coronavirus. “Today, we learned that the legendary Manu Dibango passed away from the coronavirus. Likewise, performers and support staff in the music industry and on Broadway are ill, or have been left without work. They are facing an uncertain future.”
The estate also said, “in Las Vegas, which was so welcoming to Michael Jackson, the whole city has been shut down. This has left thousands of workers and their families overwhelmed and without an income.”
The estate ended the statement by noting, “Michael’s spirit of generosity and helping others during his life is legendary. Our donations are inspired by Michael.”
Las Vegas is deeply grateful
The $100,000 donation will be a big help, as we fight to keep essential parts of our communities running during these unprecedented times. This generous donation will provide 300,000 meals to needy Las Vegas residents, as well as restock Three Square Food Bank’s supplies; Three Square the largest food bank in Southern Nevada.
A representative for Three Square Food Bank said, “Before the pandemic, 1 out of 8 Southern Nevadans resided in a food-insecure situation. Unfortunately, that number will exponentially increase with the lay-offs of thousands of workers in Las Vegas. We want to thank the Estate of Michael Jackson for stepping up to help feed kids, families, senior citizens and veterans who may need help now more than ever.”
Michael Jackson and Las Vegas
Michael Jackson impersonators now outnumber Elvis on the Las Vegas Strip, despite MJ never had a residency on the Strip.
In 2005, the King of Pop had planned a dramatic series of concerts in Sin City; he was working closely with artists not just on sets and costumes, but also on a 50-foot tall Michael Jackson robot, which would roam the Nevada desert.
However, funding was problematic; Jackson was fresh from his controversial and highly publicized child molestation trial. While he met with Las Vegas casino moguls, including Steve Wynne, he couldn’t raise enough money to fulfill his ambitious vision.
While most people immediately think of Neverland Ranch, the fact is, Michael Jackson spent much of his time at his Las Vegas compound, the “Thriller Villa” northwest of the Strip, located at 2710 Palomino Lane. The lavish Spanish-style seven-bedroom, twelve bath mansion sits on nearly two meticulously manicured acres.
Built in 1952, the mansion has been described by realtors as ‘Spanish-Mediterranean’ in style, but perhaps, it would best be described as a small Mexican village, with a church, bell tower, a central cobblestone courtyard, and several large and small fountains. Between 2007 and 2009, this 27,259-square-foot hacienda was a sanctuary for Michael and his three children.
There are several Michael Jackson shows in Las Vegas, although they are currently dark due to the coronavirus shutdown.
Michael Jackson ONE is a Cirque du Soleil production at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino. The show is produced in partnership with Michael Jackson’s estate.
MJ Live is a tribute show that plays at the Stratosphere Hotel and Casino. The show stars the amazing Brazilian MJ impersonator, Jalles Franca. Finally, “Legends in Concert” is a tribute show at the Tropicana features Damian Brantley as Michael Jackson.
