Michael Jackson will forever be regarded as the King of Pop and someone who truly defined many generations with his iconic music. Unfortunately, he wasn’t without his fair share of controversy as well. Jackson’s accuser Wade Robson’s abuse lawsuit against the singer is also nearing a trial now.
According to RadarOnline.com, the sexual abuse civil case against the estate of Michael Jackson has moved a step closer to trial. Wade Robson, who alleges he was sexually abused by the late King of Pop when he was seven years old, claims the abuse took place at the Neverland Ranch.
The lawsuit, which was initially dismissed in 2021 but had the decision reversed by the California Court of Appeals in August, is now proceeding towards trial.
A trial conference has been scheduled for February 28, 2024, during which a trial date for Robson’s case will be set, as confirmed by Judge Mark A. Young. Wade Robson, now 41, gained attention after being prominently featured in the HBO docuseries Leaving Neverland.
Robson alleges that Michael Jackson made sexual advances during his stay at Neverland, continuing the abuse for seven years. According to court documents, Jackson reportedly told Robson, “We can never tell anyone what WE are doing,” and stressed that revealing their relationship would jeopardize their lives and careers. The abuse allegedly continued through faxes and frequent telephone conversations after Robson went back to Australia.
”People are ignorant and they would never understand that we love each other, and this is how we show it. If anyone were to ever find out, OUR lives and careers would be over.”
Robson claims he realized he had been systematically abused in 2012 after experiencing multiple nervous breakdowns and feelings of stress, anxiety, fear, depression, and insomnia. Michael Jackson’s estate has denied the allegations.
The late singer’s lawyer, Howard Weitzman, has dismissed Robson’s claims as “sad and less than credible.” Weitzman pointed to Robson’s previous testimony and interviews where he denied any inappropriate behavior by Jackson. The case has managed to create considerable controversy and debate when it comes to the legacy of the iconic pop star. We’ll have to wait and see what will become of this lawsuit in the end.
What do you think of this Michael Jackson story? Are you shocked such a lawsuit is moving towards a trial? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!