Michael Jackson's estate attacks at HBO documentary projects

Michael Jackson's estate calls HBO's decision to broadcast a documentary that includes two men's allegations that the superstar has badaulted them "ashamed" and urges the cable network to further investigate their origins.

The 10-page letter released on Friday offers a meeting with HBO executives to try to discredit the stories of the two men featured in the documentary "Leaving Neverland," Wade Robson and James Safechuck. The estate claims that men lie, as evidenced by court grading and inconsistencies in the stories.

The letter, written by the estate's attorney, Howard Weitzman, reproaches the documentary for focusing solely on Robson's and Safechuck's stories and not interviewing Jackson's family members, estate, or family. Other people who knew him. He indicates that Robson had looked for work on a Jackson-themed Cirque du Soleil show and had raised allegations of molestation only after he was not hired.

The first part of the four-hour documentary will be broadcast for the first time on HBO on March 3, and the second half will be aired the following night. After the publication of the letter, HBO stated, "Our plans remain unchanged … Dan Reed is an award-winning filmmaker who has carefully documented the stories of these survivors." People need to reserve their judgment until they They see the movie. "

Robson and Safechuck both claimed to have been molested and unsuccessfully sued Jackson's estate following the death of the singer in June 2009. Robson testified for Jackson's defense during a 2005 molestation lawsuit. Is completed with the acknowledgment of the singer.

FILE- This January 24, 2019, archive photo Wade Robson, from left to right, director Dan Reed and James Safechuck pose for a portrait promoting the movie "Leaving Neverland" at the Salesforce Music Lodge at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. Michael Jackson's estate calls HBO's decision to broadcast a documentary that includes two men's allegations that the superstar has badaulted them "shamefully" and urges the cable network to further investigate their origins. The letter published on Friday, February 8, 2019 proposes a meeting with HBO executives to try to discredit the stories of the two men featured in the documentary "Leaving Neverland", Wade Robson and James Safechuck.

Taylor Jewell / Invision / AP

The Associated Press does not usually name badual abuse victims, but lawyers for Robson and Safechuck have said they have agreed to be named publicly. The men also appeared on stage after the film's premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, where "Leaving Neverland" was greeted with a standing ovation.

Director Dan Reed said he intentionally focused on the stories of Robson and Safechuck.

"All who will see the film will know that it's only about listening to the stories of two people and their families in their own words, which we are very proud of," Reed said in a statement. a previous press release.

Weitzman's letter includes a meeting offer with HBO executives to discuss the film and says that if the network is concerned about ethical standards, "this documentary will never be shown on HBO."

"We know this will remain the most shameful episode in the history of HBO," said Weitzman's letter. "We know that Michael's dedicated fans, and all the good people in the world, will not be quick to forgive HBO for his conduct."

Archival photo of singer Michael Jackson of March 2009.

AP Photo / Joel Ryan