Statement by Nelson Mandela at Michael Jackson Memorial

Former South African President Nelson Mandela, center, is seen smiling during his tour of Freedom Park in Pretoria, South Africa Thursday July 2, 2009. Freedom Park is a memorial to celebrate those who sacrificed their lives for Freedom in South Africa and was opened in December 2007. (AP Photo/Taurai Maduna, Pool) More Michael Jackson News and Coverage Michael Jackson Memorial Service Full Video Dr. Arnie Klein on Larry King Michael Jackson the Father: Newly released videos of Michael and his children Paris, Prince, and Blanket Paris Jackson made Spike Lee cry Rev. Al Sharpton speaks at Michael Jackson Memorial Service Does Michael Jackson appear at own memorial? Unexplained ghost photo debated. Vote! Is Rev. Al Sharpton a Racist? Watch repeat of Michael Jackson Memorial Service right now! Michael Jackson's Children: Prince, Paris, and Blanket photo slideshow Vote: Do you think Michael Jackson is a pervert Over 700 VOTES VOICE YOUR OPINION! Michael Jackson's brother, Marlon and daughter, Paris speak CNN Live to replay Michael Jackson Memorial Service Share your experiences with the Michael Jackson Memorial Statement by Diana Ross at the Michael Jackson Memorial Statement by Nelson Mandela at the Michael Jackson Memorial Opening statements by Pastor Lucius Smith Queen Latifah reads poem by Maya Angelou, 'We had Him' Watch Michael Jackson Memorial Live on CNN Michael Jackson Memorial Online with CBS and Chat For breaking news updates delivered to your Inbox, click "subscribe to email" either above or below this post. |
Smokey Robinson started the belated Michael Jackson memorial service by reading several statements. The first was from Diana Ross, long time friend of Michael Jackson. The second was from Nelson Mandela.
"Dear Jackson family,
"It is with great sadness that we learned of the untimely death of Michael Jackson. Michael became close to us after he started visiting and performing in South Africa regularly. We grew fond of him, and he became close -- a close member of our family. We had great admiration for his talent and that he was able to triumph over tragedy on so many occasions in his life.
"Michael was a giant and a legend in the music industry. And we mourn with the millions of fans worldwide. We also mourn with his family and his friends over the loss of our dear friend. He will be missed and memories about him cherished for a very long time. My wife and I, our family, our friends, send you our condolences during this time of mourning. Be strong.
"Nelson Mandela."