Thaindian News

The entertainment industry is in mourning today following the sudden death of 80s pop icon Michael Jackson yesterday, aged 50.

Tributes from the who’s-who of the music and acting industries have joined with those from everyday fans in expressing grief at the eccentric performers death.

Arnold Schwarzenegger, Governor of California said he was shocked and saddened over Jackson’s death.

He said “the world has lost one of the most influential and iconic figures in the music industry. Michael was a pop phenomenon who never stopped pushing the envelope of creativity.

“Though there were serious questions about his personal life, Michael was undoubtedly a great entertainer and his popularity spanned generations and the globe.”

Paul McCartney, who warred with Michael Jackson when he bought up the rights to the Beatles catalog said, “I feel privileged to have hung out and worked with Michael.

“He was a massively talented boy man with a gentle soul. His music will be remembered forever and my memories of our time together will be happy ones.”

Fellow pop icon Madonna said, “I can’t stop crying over the sad news. I have always admired Michael Jackson. The world has lost one of the greats, but his music will live on forever”.

Justin Timberlake said, I can’t find the words right now to express how deeply sadden [sic] I am by Michael’s passing. We have lost a genius and a true ambassador of not only Pop music, but of all music.

“He has been an inspiration to multiple generations and I will always cherish the moments I shared with him on stage and all of the things I learned about music from him and the time we spent together. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones.”

Eddie Van Halen said, “I am really shocked; as I’m sure the world is, to hear the news. I had the pleasure of working with Michael on ‘Beat It’ back in ‘83 — one of my fondest memories in my career. Michael will be missed and may he rest in peace.”

Representatives of screen doyen Elizabeth Taylor’s said “Dame Elizabeth Taylor is too devastated by the passing of her dear friend Michael Jackson to issue a statement at this time.”

Taylor, who was a close and dear friend to Jackson for several years, was the one who dubbed him the “King of Pop.”

It as reported that long-time friend Elton John was in the middle of his annual White Tie and Tiara Ball when he was rocked by the news of Michael Jackson’s death.

John continued to perform and had dedicated the song Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me to Michael.

Liz Hurley, Hugh Grant, Lily Allen, and Kelly Osbourne were at the party, however several of the guests left once they heard the news.