A public memorial for Michael Jackson, new DVD planned

A tribute to Michael Jackson is seen on a screen during the ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Awards
AP Photo: Matt Sayles

Details are emerging about a public memorial service for the "World’s Greatest Entertainer," Michael Jackson. The ceremony will be held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Tuesday. More than 11,000 free tickets will be available to the general public.

After 7 days, media coverage of Jackson's death continues. From updates on the investigation to details of Michael Jackson’s will, the press is still hovering. Major news outlets including the broadcast networks have sent additional personnel to Los Angeles to cover the planned memorial service. The release of new information regarding Jackson’s death, details of his will and new a DVD have further fueled the media’s interest.

At the time of Jackson’s sudden death, it’s estimated that he was more than $300 million in debt. There are also reports that a proposed DVD could possibly wipe out any remaining debt. Just days before Jackson’s death, he was rehearsing at the Staples Center for this summer’s 50 date sold-out concerts in London, England. Video footage of those rehearsals could be turned into a DVD. The DVD is being billed as Jackson’s last performance. Portions of the video are supposedly from day before his death.
 

March 5, 2009, Michael Jackson announces a series of concerts at the London O2 Arena
(AP Photo/Joel Ryan)

After Jackson’s death, sales of his past albums flew off the shelves. According to the Associated Press, over 400,000 albums have been sold. Retailers have been hard pressed to keep up with demand. Foxnews.com is reporting that internet retailer Amazon.com’s CD section has Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 as the 15 top sellers. Digital downloads have also increased substantially, 2.3 million downloads since Michael Jackson’s death.