News

2023

June 27 : Wade Robson’s case to go on trial

The California Court of Appeal just cleared the way for Robson to make his case in court. The trial court favoured the Estate’s argument, but the Court of Appeal begged to differ, and according to a tentative ruling the case will be sent back down for trial. Robson sued the MJ corporation in 2013 and The California Court of Appeal has reversed the 2021 decision dismissing his case. The case was originally dismissed in 2017 after a judge found it was filed past the statute of limitations. However, a new law extending the time for child victims to file legal claims revived the case in 2019. Then, in 2021, the judge ruled that Michael’s company had no legal duty to protect Robson from any alleged harm.

August 18 : Michael Jackson sexual abuse lawsuits revived by appeals court : “LOS ANGELES (AP) — A California appeals court on Friday revived lawsuits from two men who allege Michael Jackson sexually abused them for years when they were boys. A three-judge panel from California’s 2nd District Court of Appeal found that the lawsuits of Wade Robson and James Safechuck should not have been dismissed by a lower court, and that the men can validly claim that the two Jackson-owned corporations that were named as defendants in the cases had a responsibility to protect them. A new California law that temporarily broadened the scope of sexual abuse cases enabled the appeals court to restore them.”

APPEALS UPDATE: Court Publishes Final Opinion – Unchanged from Tentative. The court has reversed both dismissals of Wade/James back to trial court. Based on the tentative and judge demeanor in oral arguments, this is no surprise. The litigants continue.

Statement from the estate on the appeal reversal : “…We remain fully confident that Michael is innocent of these allegations, which are contrary to all credible evidence and independent corroboration…motivated solely by money. We trust that the truth will ultimately prevail.”

September 07 : Within less than 24hrs, the court of appeal of the State of California has already denied the Petition for Rehearing deposited by the Michael Jackson Estate on September 05. The court appeal has denied the petition on September 06, meaning that they will not revise their decision for the Robson case to go to trial. However, fan experts in US laws are positive about this as it seems this was expected and planned by the Estate. The Estate’s plan is to go to the Supreme Court of the United States as this is the ultimate power decision in the US court system. The petition being denied will build their case for the Supreme Court and reverse the Appeal court decision.

September 18 : Taj Jackson sat down on September 2 with Charles Thomson for the MJCast and he gave few updates on his documentary. Taj first talked about his family, going to Las Vegas for the Estate’s Michael Jackson Sapphire Celebration, Myles Frost and MJ The Musical and the Biopic. Taj also confirmed that the documentary is still looking for funding as the two deals he announced last year never materialised. He confirmed that he will release the series before the Robson’s trial and before the Biopic which is supposed to be out in 2024.

September 26 : The Estate of Michael Jackson files petition to the Supreme court

The estate of Michael Jackson has just filed a 42-page petition seeking review from the California supreme court in the Robson/Safechuck case. The Estate hopes to that the Supreme court will reverse the court of appeal of the State of California that was denied at the beginning of the month. We will update you as soon as the Supreme Court issued an answer. The petition was filed on September 26, 2023.

October 02 : Taj Jackson : “This docuseries WILL clear Michael Jackson’s name once and for all. That has always and will always be its main purpose and focus. It will tackle the topics and crap that those of us who defend Michael daily have to deal with. The series will finally educate the uninformed/ill-informed public. That being said, It is equally important to also humanize Michael Jackson and show him as a real person and human being. Otherwise the general public won’t bother empathizing or sympathizing with him. I need them to feel all the horrors he was put through. It still amazes me to this day how strong my uncle was.

Although the last 4 years have taken its toll both mentally and physically, I will NEVER EVER stop fighting for my uncle. This docuseries is the top priority for me.
And for those of you who have fought right there alongside me on the front lines … I am eternally grateful. We have held each other up.
Last but not least… I truly appreciate all the love, support and confidence you guys have continuesly shown me. Together we can and will Right HIStory. That is a promise.”

November 16 : The estate of Michael Jackson’s petition for review of the appeal’s reversal has been denied. The Robson/Safechuck case will therefore go to trial so brace yourself for another years of fighting for justice.

December 14 : Taj Jackson : “I’ve tried for so long to keep this project under the radar and hide it from the general media and public. My strategy was…they can not stop what they do not know. However, I don’t 100 percent feel like this tactic is as effective anymore.
All it really does is frustrate you guys and keep you totally in the dark with questions and no answers. Another alternative is me considering the open and transparent angle. This would be pretty new to me regarding this project, but I am willing to entertain that idea now.
I’m curious to hear your thoughts or concerns about either route.

If the open and transparent angle route is the right way to go for most of you, we can start early 2024 off that way. After all, this is not just my project, this is OUR project.
We have been on this MJ battlefield fighting together and have the permanent battle scars to prove it. And while others might now feel safe enough to swoop in to reap all the rewards from OUR wins and efforts.. I will continue to remind them that WE were the ones on those front lines, not them. That is why you guys will always have my gratitude and respect.”

2022

March 21 : Taj Jackson : “The other day I was editing never before seen footage of my brothers and I with my uncle Michael and it brought back all these amazing feelings.
I even said out loud to myself while it was still playing…
”I got you uncle Michael”.
Looking back, It was a strange thing to say out loud when you are all alone… but I meant it with every single fiber of my soul.
I got him!…matter of fact….WE got him.
His legacy WILL be cemented in history as the incredible person and human being he undeniably was. WE will make sure people know THE TRUTH. And I am so grateful to have your continued support and trust on this journey. WE GOT THIS!

Let me say one last thing as I think it needs repeating.
I will NOT STOP fighting for my uncle and the truth. I also have NEVER stopped working on this docuseries and will never stop until it is completed and released, as promised.”

June 13 : Brett Barnes gives his first interview since 1993 on the MJ Cast podast to defend Michael.

2021

February 19 : Taj Jackson : “Unfortunately because we are still in a pandemic, things are moving way slower than I ever wished. Fortunately there is a light at the end of this COVID tunnel and I look forward to quickly getting things moving again once restrictions lighten up more. And it’s not like I have just been sitting on my hands waiting either. . Everyday I am either doing interviews fighting for my uncle’s innocence, or working on this project and how to best and most effectively get it done with the greatest impact.
I heard some people publically doubt that this project will ever be finished. And although I really do understand their frustrations, I don’t think anybody understands the strength of my love for my uncle and the incredible bond we had. This is a promise I made to him over 25 years ago and I still remember it as if it were yesterday. I promised to always stand up for him and his legacy. Even when others wouldn’t.
I won’t stop until this project is done and something he would be proud of me for.
Now more than ever I am excited and optimistic because “a change is gonna come “(to quote the late great Sam Cooke) and I can see it happening already.
I got this , we got this!
L.O.V.E.
Taj”

April 26 : Wade Robson’s case dismissed by Judge

The Los Angeles Superior Court ruled against Wade Robson in case this morning in claims against corporations owned by Michael Jackson and/or the Estate of Michael Jackson and dismissed his case again. “As of today, a summary judgment AGAINST Wade Robson has been granted three different times by two different judges of the Superior Court.

May 6 : Michael Jackson’s Estate is preparing for battle with HBO in their arbitration case over the documentary, “Leaving Neverland.” They’ve added to their legal team Thomas Mesereau. The other members of the team are Bryan Freedman and Jonathan Steinsapir.

July 30 : Taj Jackson : “The past 2 years I have purposely not shared some things with you guys because I didn’t want my personal problems to interfere or question your confidence in me and this project.

First, I have never lied about this project being one of the most important projects in my life. Nor have I ever lied about my love and dedication to it and my uncle. However, there are some personal stuff behind the scenes that I have had to deal with and it has definitely affected both my mental and physical health. I am doing much better now but I want to finally share 2 examples.

Ok, where do I start…
Last year my wife and I came face to face with the horrors of a miscarriage. I didn’t reveal it back then because we had no idea how to handle this loss. The effects were absolutely devastating for us.
That day, we went to my wife’s OB/GYN(doctor) to finally find out the gender of our new baby. It was suppose to be an exciting day. Instead we found out that our little precious baby no longer had a heartbeat. Nothing prepared us for that shock. I hid this pain well from you guys and the public. I still did many interviews regarding my uncle and livestreams after that painful day. You would have never known what happened.

Which brings me to my next situation…
Well two months ago I went to my doctor for the first time in nearly a decade. I knew I hadn’t been taking good care of myself and the results clearly showed.
Not only was my blood pressure and blood sugar super high, I also had some other health complications. Not to mention I was already 60 pounds overweight. Luckily everything was still fixable and not permanent. But I had a pretty decent health scare for awhile. So if I wasn’t as active on social media as I had been in the past, or didn’t answer or respond to your messages or comments, now you know why. I really had to focus on getting better and healthier…For my family, for the project, and for me.

Why am I telling all this.
Because it felt weird and hypocritical to be working on a series that humanizes my uncle by showing all the external crap and struggles he had to deal with, while at the same time I am hiding my own personal struggles and crap from you guys. I am also telling you this because I want you to fully understand that through out all this drama, my commitment to this project has never faltered. I have been constantly working and pushing things forward since I first put this Go Fund Me page up. Even with my hardships these years, I have always made time to fight for and defend my uncle’s legacy. And I will never stop that fight until everyone learns and knows the truth.

Am I frustrated about the speed at which this series is moving, of course I am. But I could have never predicted that a world wide pandemic would slow down things everywhere and last this long. So unfortunately we have to be patient.

That being said…There is no doubt in my mind that this series will be finished and distributed globally . I’m ready to hit the ground running once it’s safe to do so. I want to thank everyone for their continued support. Whether monetary support or emotional support, I am so thankful for my uncle’s defenders and advocates. This series will be executed in a way that will forever vindicate my uncle Michael once and for all. It will cement his legacy as not only the greatest entertainer that ever lived, but one of the greatest and kindest human beings to ever walk this planet. My uncle, Michael Jackson, deserves that.

Yes this series is a huge undertaking, but as I said before, your support makes this possible. I truly thank you guys for believing in this project and me. We are going to make a difference for many generations to come.

Shamone!
Taj”

2020

January 04 : Accusers can pursue lawsuits against Michael Jackson’s companies, court says.

A California appeals court ruled that Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who appeared in the movie “Leaving Neverland,” could pursue their claims because of a change in California law. A lower court had dismissed lawsuits brought by the two men in 2014 because California’s statute of limitations required that claims of childhood sexual abuse be filed before an accuser’s 26th birthday. However a new law, which came into effect on 1 January, extends the timeframe up to a person’s 40th birthday.

January 06 : The German TV channel SAT1 is airing the documentary Michael Jackson – Auf der Suche nach der Wahrheit (Michael Jackson: In Search of the Truth), featuring numerous previously unseen interviews with La Toya Jackson, Taj & Brandi Jackson, Tom Mesereau, Bill Whitfield, Dieter Wiesner, Aphrodite Jones, and most notably the Schleiter family — a German family speaking publicly for the first time on television about their relationship with Michael Jackson. (In March 2019, following the broadcast of Leaving Neverland, the Schleiter family had published a lengthy message of support for the singer on their website, titled “Enough is Enough.”)

February 29 : HBO Seeks Dismissal of ‘Leaving Neverland’ law suit

April 03 : Dan Reed wants to film Safechuck/Robson court cases

October 21 : James Safechuck court case dismissed

The judge Honorable Mark A. Young has dismissed James Safechuck’s case against MJJ Productions Inc and MJJ Ventures Inc on October 20, 2020 in the Superior Court of California. In the court document of 10 pages, the judge explained in details every six causes of action.

December 08 : Taj Jackson : “First I’d like to say that your continued patience through production delays caused by this pandemic is greatly appreciated. I thank each and every one of you for your generous past donations and emotional support. I assure you that you will be pleased once you see the completed series. I have utilized this “off” time to put together an awesome team of people that I am extremely excited about. At the beginning of next year I will announce this team and their various roles.

This project will be what my uncle deserves and something he would be extremely proud of. Not just in the outcome, but the dedication, support, and love surrounding it. We will permanently change the misconceptions and narratives built by opportunists and the media. Lies will be exposed! The Truth will finally be cemented. That said, I ask for a little more time and patience while we get through this pandemic. I look forward to returning to production(filming) soon.

Together, we will Re-Right HIStory.

Taj”

December 15 : MJ Estate wins appeal against HBO

2019

January 10 : Statement from the Estate of Michael Jackson

Earlier today certain media ran an item relating to a film included in the lineup of the Sundance Film Festival. The Estate issued the following statement to media reporting the story:

“This is yet another lurid production in an outrageous and pathetic attempt to exploit and cash in on Michael Jackson. Wade Robson and James Safechuck have both testified under oath that Michael never did anything inappropriate toward them. Safechuck and Robson, the latter a self-proclaimed ‘master of deception’, filed lawsuits against Michael’s Estate, asking for millions of dollars. Both lawsuits were dismissed. This so-called ‘documentary’ is just another rehash of dated and discredited allegations. It’s baffling why any credible filmmaker would involve himself with this project.”

Unfortunately, anyone can release a documentary and they do not have to secure permission to do so. The only time the Estate has any potential recourse is when a documentary or other film uses intellectual property such as music or video that is owned by the Estate and is not protected under “fair use” claims, which of course the Estate is monitoring. You may recall the Estate filed litigation against Disney earlier this year for violating its intellectual property rights. As the Estate said, the individuals featured in this documentary have had their claims rejected in court. Furthermore, Michael was declared innocent in the criminal case against him. No documentary can change that.

January 21 : Taj Jackson launches a Go Fund Me Page to fight against “Leaving Neverland :

“MJ fam – here we are over 11 years since of my Uncle Michael’s passing. Instead of being able to mourn and properly celebrate and honor Michael Jackson, we are, again, being forced to educate the media and the general public with the evidence-based truth about him.
Once again, we have to defend Michael Jackson’s name and legacy from vicious and calculated lies. We can no longer sit back and wait for the ‘right thing’ to be reported or for someone else to step in and champion our cause. This is on us – fans, friends and family. I know that the unanimous acquittals and the FBI’s on and off 10-year investigation (resulting in my Uncle’s complete exoneration) should have been enough. The worst thing we can do is let this continued slander go unchallenged. Especially since my uncle is not here to defend himself.
I know that when we as a group are united, we are unstoppable.
So I am asking for your help.

This series will uncover the real Michael Jackson. The larger-than-life entertainer grew up in ways no other human could ever imagine. The viewer will have the opportunity to step inside Jackson’s world through the stories and recollections of the people that truly knew him best. Michael was human like the rest of us; flawed and imperfect. He was eccentric, uber talented, philanthropic, sensitive and traumatized. All of these things made Michael who he was. He was not weird, he was unique. He was a man who believed in the message of love, in a world that didn’t appreciate or understand him.

I am the oldest nephew of Michael Jackson. I had the privilege to have grown up extremely close to my uncle and was always a loyal friend and ally to him throughout his entire life. I also had a front seat to what the negative media and allegations put him through. I lived with him during the whole 2005 trial.

As a sexual abuse victim (from my uncle Chuck on my mom’s side of the family), I know what it means to be a survivor. I also know what kind of damage sexual misconduct leaves upon the victims. This unique position makes me even more determined and qualified to make the truth, the whole truth known about my uncle Michael’s false allegations.

My uncle’s last words to me were…
“After this, we’re doing films.”
Never did I think that a decade later necessity would require me to direct a film about his proven innocence.”

January 25 : The Michael Jackson estate has issued a statement on the film “Leaving Neverland,” which premiered at Sundance on Friday morning (Jan. 25). The documentary was screened at Park City, Utah’s Egyptian Theater. The Estate issued its statement about 12 hours after the film debuted, taking issue with what it calls “the kind of tabloid character assassination Michael Jackson endured in life, and now in death.”

Dan Reed’s film follows two accusers, Wade Robson and James Safechuck, as they describe intense and graphic acts they say Jackson committed against them, as well those they say the pop icon coached them to commit on him. Robson met Jackson through a dance competition at age 5, and alleges the sexual abuse began when he was 7. Safechuck was cast in a Pepsi commercial starring Jackson around age 8, and the alleged abuse began after months of close friendship.

Taj & TJ defend MJ on Twitter and plan to make a documentary to end all the lies.

January 28 : The Jackson family releases a statement regarding the “Leaving Neverland” documentary.

January 30 : Jermaine gives an interview to Good Morning Britain to defend Michael in the “Leaving Neverland” controversy. Many friends defend MJ on social medias including Brett Barnes, Frank Cascio, Karen Faye & Talun Zeitoun.

Frank Cascio defends MJ on Twitter : “Pro-a-gan-da information, especially of a biaised or misleading nature, used to promote or publicize a particular point of view. Why didn’t Brett, myself or the thousands of others who had nothing to gain and have opposing views get a call for this “documentary”? @DanReed1000″

February 8 : The Estate’s letters to RadarOnline, HBO & Channel 4

The Estate of Michael Jackson has communicated with the fans some of the letters they have been sending to RadarOnline and HBO and also reassure the fans that they are working hard to dismiss the so called “Documentary” “Leaving Neverland”. Fans around the world have been campaigning to bring the truth to the media and to the general public but also trying to cancel this horrible and full of lies (and liars) “Documentary”.

February 11 : Brandi Jackson exposes Wade Robson’s lies in twitter and reveals that she dated him for 7 years and Michael introduced them to each other.

February 21 : Lawsuit filed by the Estate of Michael Jackson

This morning, The Estate of Michael Jackson filed a lawsuit against HBO. HBO is not just a distributor but a co-producer of this so-called documentary Leaving Neverland. As many of you know, in 1992 HBO entered into an agreement for the broadcast of “Live From Bucharest” which became HBO’s highest rated special. As part of that agreement, HBO agreed to non-disparagement provisions which remain in effect. This program is the epitome of disparagement. Therefore, HBO stands in breach of contract. Even though Michael is not here to defend himself and there is no claim for defamation, this is a contractual obligation.

Michael’s nephew Taj Jackson : “For those late to the party… here’s Wade Robson’s email to me about attending my uncle Michael’s memorial in 2009. His whole family went,” with an email from Robson attached : Hey It’s Wade Robson. Here is my list for the MJ memorial on Tuesday the 7th, 2009.

THE ROBSON FAMILY

Wade Robson
Amanda Robson
Joy Robson
Chantal Robson
Shane Robson
Erica Robson
Phillipe Casseus

We are going to be in ONE hired SUV. If there are any preferred parking passes or something like that, that would be amazing to have. How will we pick up our credentials/tickets/parking passes? Thank you so much. Love, Wade Robson.”

February 24 : During a TV interview, LaToya refuses to comment the “Leaving Neverland” controversy : “Let’s keep Michael at peace and where he is. He has given the world so much joy. Let’s not take that away from him”.

February 27 : The Jackson family reacts to “Leaving Neverland”. Brandi Jackson gives a radio interview while Marlon, Tito, Jackie & Taj are guests on CBS This Morning.

March : The MJ Estate lawyers contact Frank Cascio and his family to ask them for support. Despite having a decades-long friendship with Michael Jackson, and after years of passionately defending Michael against false and scurrilous allegations made by third parties, Frank and his family decide to exploit the negative publicity following the release of Leaving Neverland in order to try to profit from making their own specious allegations against Michael. To do so, Frank’ representative insist on meeting with MJ Estate representatives at the Sunset Marquis Hotel swimming pool wearing only bathing suits so that MJ Estate representatives could not wear a “wire” to record the conversation.

Following this bizarre meeting, Frank’s lawyer informs MJ Estate lawyers that the Cascios intend to repudiate their prior support of Michael and manufacture false and specious allegations against him unless they were paid money, as well as to counter the negative press surrounding the film, MJ Estate sought to make a life rights and consulting deal to acquire content that the Respondents and other parties to the Agreement had accumulated during their decades-long close friendship with Michael, including home movies showing Michael’s warm and happy interactions over the years with his “second family” during Christmas, holidays, and other occasions. However, Respondents used the negative media frenzy as an opportunity to enrich themselves.

Connie Cascio calls Grace Rwaramba : “She told me that Aldo had “hit his head” and had been acting out in a way they could not explain, until “Leaving Neverland” aired. I pointed Connie to a statement I had just given to ABC News. I told her plainly, if I had ever suspected Michael of abusing children, I would have reported him to the authorities. I wonder if they thought I was bitter enough to lend my name to their allegations. After the March 2019 call with Connie, I did not hear from the Cascio family again”. Grace Rwaramba posts on her Facebook/Instagram pages on May 29, 2026.

March 3 + 4 : HBO airs two-part HBO documentary Leaving Neverland,

March 4 : HBO and OWN present Oprah Winfrey Presents: After Neverland, a conversation hosted by Oprah featuring Wade Robson and James Safechuck.

March 5-11 :  Many family and friends defend MJ on social medias including Karen Faye, Corey Feldman, Brett Barnes, Macauley Culkin, Jermaine, Austin, Yashi, Brandi, the Schleiter Family, Grace Rwaramba etc

Taj flies to London to give interviews (the doc is aired on Channel 4)

Katherine, Rebbie, Janet, LaToya, Randy, Prince & Paris remain silent.

March 13 : Paris on Twitter : “there’s nothing i can say that hasn’t already been said in regards to defense. Taj is doing a perfect job on his own. and i support him. but that’s not my role. I’m just tryna get everyone to chill out and go with the flow, be mellow and think about the bigger picture. that’s me.”

March 16 : TMZ reports that Paris was hospitalized last night after a suicide attempt. Paris replies to them on Twitter “fuck you, you fucking liars”.

March 18 : Statement from the Estate of Michael Jackson

March 23 : Diana Ross supports MJ on Twitter.

The Jackson family provided Billboard with a 24-page working PowerPoint document, titled “Leaving Neverland and the Truth,” that questions the accusers’ memories and the filmmakers’ motives in detail. The estate also attached recent news clips in which the singer’s defense attorney called the accusations “hogwash.”  The document goes into detail about the documentary being bias, inconsistent, and notes that the footage that was featured was misused.

The Jackson family gathers to celebrate Genevieve’s engagement party in L.A. Many members attend the party including Katherine, Rebbie, LaToya, Austin, Stacee, Yashi, TJ and Frances, Taj and Thayana, Taryll & Breanna, Alejandra, Randy Jr, Donte, Jaafar, Jermajesty, Autumn, Paris, Steveanna and more…

September 20 : Judge Declines HBO’s Request to Throw Out ‘Leaving Neverland’ Lawsuit.

September 28 : Square One: Michael Jackson is a 2019 investigative documentary directed by Danny Wu is released. It focuses on the 1993 case in which Michael Jackson was accused of molesting Jordan Chandler. Through interviews with people closest to the case. The film features interviews with Jackson’s nephew Taj Jackson, three women who were on the 2003 witness list in People v. Jackson, and short-lived legal secretary to Barry Rothman, Geraldine Hughes and journalist Charles Thomson. The film makes a case for Jackson’s innocence, portraying him as a victim of tabloid journalism. Square One is made available in an enhanced version on Amazon Prime Video on May 7, 2020, in the US and the UK and worldwide on June 12.

October 22 : HBO Taking Michael Jackson ‘Leaving Neverland’ Dispute to Appeals Court

November 19 : Lawsuits by Michael Jackson accusers likely to be restored

2010–2012: Family life and psychological strain

Safechuck has described increasing distress, particularly after becoming a parent. His later pleadings and interviews say that fatherhood altered his understanding of what had happened and intensified concern about childhood safety.

May 2013: Wade Robson’s public disclosure

Safechuck says seeing Robson discuss allegations against Jackson was a major catalyst. He began to reconsider his own experiences and eventually disclosed to family members and sought legal advice. Defence lawyers argue that Robson’s claim supplied a model and legal pathway; Safechuck argues that it broke through years of denial.

2014

May 09 : James Safechuck files a lawsuit against Michael Jackson’s estate, alleging that Jackson had sexually abused him over a four-year period beginning when Safechuck was ten years old. Safechuck claimed that the abuse started after he met Jackson during the filming of a Pepsi commercial in 1986. He alleged that Jackson groomed him with gifts and attention, leading to incidents of sexual abuse during the singer’s 1988 “Bad” tour. The lawsuit contended that Jackson’s companies, MJJ Productions and MJJ Ventures, facilitated the alleged abuse by creating an environment that allowed it to occur.

May 12 : The latest sexual assault complaint, filed in court last Friday, remains sealed, but two sources close to the case revealed that the man involved is James Safechuck, who appeared in a Pepsi ad featuring Jackson in 1987 and proceeded to have a close association with the singer for several years. Safechuck has always denied that Jackson had molested him. Safechuck added his name to a suit originally filed by Wade Robson in May 2013. Robson, an Australian who is now 31, testified in Jackson’s defense at the singer’s 2005 trial, where the pop icon was found not guilty of child molestation and other charges. But later, Robson changed his mind. Last year, he alleged in a civil suit against Jackson’s estate that the singer had forced him to perform sex acts. Both Robson, who was once a top Hollywood choreographer, and Safechuck, 36, are represented by the L.A. law firm of Gradstein & Marzano. Partners in that firm declined to comment on their latest filing.

2014–2015: Pleading amendments and probate litigation

Safechuck amended his allegations to describe corporate recruitment, employment, travel, gifts, secrecy and alleged facilitation. The Estate and companies challenged timeliness, knowledge, duty, causation and the legal sufficiency of the claims.

2017

The parties litigated document production and depositions involving former employees and other witnesses. Safechuck’s Third Amended Complaint was filed in February 2017. It alleged intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence, negligent supervision, breach of fiduciary duty and related theories.

June : Claims dismissed under the former limitations regime
The trial court rejected Safechuck’s effort to proceed against the Estate and dismissed the corporate claims as untimely under the law then in force. The court did not conduct a trial on whether the abuse allegations were true.

1987

Late January : Michael shoots a new Pepsi commercial with a special version of the song “Bad”. During the filming he meets 9 years old actor Jimmy Safechuck.

March 10 : MJ replies to a letter from Jimmy Safechuck ans reveals him that he is working a new video for his album and is “very busy”.

December : Michael invites Jimmy Safechuck and his family at have dinner at Hayvenhurst and they all become friends. Later Michael visits Jimmy Safechuck and his family in L.A.

1988

Late January/Early February : Michael takes Jimmy Safechuck and his family to Honolulu. They stay at Kahala Hilton Hotel for three days and they attend Pepsi Bottler’s Convention. Michael also takes them to Disneyworld in Orlando (Florida).

February 5-18 : Rehearsals for the Bad Tour second leg take place at the Pensacola Civic Center in Pensacola (Florida). Michael invites Jimmy Safechuck and his parents to stay with him.

March 9 : Michael attends a performance of “The Phantom Of The Opera” with Jimmy Safechuck, his mother & Liza Minnelli in NYC.

May 19 : Michael arrives in Rome, Italy with Bob Jones, Bill Bray and Jimmy Safechuch. They stay at the Lord Byron Hotel. Michael attends a reception held in his honor at American Embassy, Villa Taverna, a lovely 8-acre estate with beautiful gardens. It’s hosted by Ambassador and Mrs. Max Rabb and Sophia Loren, Gina Lollobrigida, Federico Fellini and Franco Zefferelli are among the guests.

June 25 : Michael invites Jimmy Safechuck and his parents to join him on tour for a few weeks. They check in the Crillon Palace in Paris, France.

July 2 : Michael and an entourage of about 100 people (the whole tour crew) visit Phantasialand in Brühl near Cologne. Among them the Safechuck family.

July 18 : Michael & Jimmy Safechuck visit Elstree Studios where Steven Spielberg is directing “Indiana Jones” and they both meet Harrison Ford.

August 10 : Michael arrives in Nice, France with Jimmy Safechuck. He stays at the Negresco Hotel and goes out very little during his few days on the Côte d’Azur.

1989

May : Michael is seized by armed police after being mistaken for a robber whilst shopping in disguise with Jimmy Safechuck at Zales jewellers in Simi Valley.

September : Wade Robson and his family move to L.A and become regular guests at Neverland.

1992

April 20 : Michael is in Chicago to film the video for Jam featuring Michael Jordan, Kriss Kross and rapper Heavy D. Jimmy Safechuck, Brett Barnes, Macauley Culkin & Wade Robson visit him on the set.

1993

August 10 +11 +12 : Michael starts filming the short film “Is This Scary” directed by Mick Garris at CBS/Radfort Studios in Studio City. James Safechuck and his parents visit Michael on the set and they all pose for a picture together.

When Jordan Chandler’s allegations became public, Safechuck did not accuse Jackson. Available accounts differ over whether investigators formally approached him or his family. Safechuck’s later position is that he remained emotionally bound to Jackson and did not understand himself as a victim.

1994

August 07 : Michael shoots a teaser for his forthcoming album with an army of Russian soldiers. He arrives on the scene around noon, accompanied by his wife Lisa Marie Presley and shaded by a huge raspberry color umbrella being carried by his assistant Jimmy Safechuck.

2003–2005: Jackson criminal proceedings

During the investigation and trial arising from the Gavin Arvizo allegations, Safechuck did not testify. He has said that Jackson’s representatives contacted him about supporting the defence and that he declined. The defence disputes some versions of when he was contacted and what he understood at the time. Jackson was acquitted on all counts on 13 June 2005 in a case concerning different allegations.

2009

Jackson died in Los Angeles on June 25, 2009. Safechuck did not immediately make a public accusation. The defence cites the years of silence as a credibility issue; Safechuck says delayed disclosure is explained by grooming, loyalty, shame and psychological compartmentalisation.

2026

June 07 : Trial Date Moves to 2028… What’s Another Couple of Years? : “According to the latest case status report filed by both parties, the mutually proposed trial date has now been pushed back yet again, this time to February 14, 2028. James Safechuck is scheduled to be deposed on June 18, while another witness considered critical to the case may not be available until September 2026 due to health issues. The Discovery Referee is also expected to participate in certain depositions but has limited availability. Meanwhile, attorney Vince Finaldi’s law partner, John Carpenter, reportedly has scheduling conflicts through June because of other trial commitments.”

2025

January 16 : Regarding the Safechuck/Robson lawsuit against the MJJ companies, the judge has ordered a trial date of November 23, 2026. Next hearing is on March 14, 2025.

February 20 : Be aware and prepared: Mockumentary part 2 lands next month

Last May, we told you that Dan Reed, the bold mastermind behind Leaving Neverland, was working on a sequel—he was even spotted filming during court proceedings in Los Angeles last year. Now, it seems Reed and Channel 4 couldn’t wait for the trial to wrap up (or maybe they already know it won’t end well for Safechuck and Robson), so they’ve decided to air Leaving Neverland 2 on March 18—choosing not to wait for the final verdict in 2026!

‘Leaving Neverland’ Sequel ‘Surviving Michael Jackson’ Set for March

February 26 : ‘Leaving Neverland’ Sequel ‘Surviving Michael Jackson’ to Premiere on YouTube in U.S.

March 04 : Leaving Neverland 2’ Trailer: Sequel Follows James Safechuck & Wade Robson’s Fight For Justice After Accusing Michael Jackson Of Sexual Assault

March 17 : These are the channels Michael Jackson fans should boycott.

Piers Morgan interview on LN2

April 09 : Legal Clash in Michael Jackson Case Over Confidentiality
As discovery formally ramps up after years of preliminary motions and procedural delays, both parties have come to a joint proposal for the timeline. According to this schedule:

Written discovery requests may proceed through October 2025

Factual discovery will continue through February 2026

Depositions may be conducted until June 2026

Final discovery submissions are due by July 31, 2026

The next hearing in the case is scheduled for July 11, 2025. As discovery continues, the court will likely revisit the issues of confidentiality, complex case treatment, and the evolving boundaries of what can be shared and with whom.

July 09 : CASE UPDATE: Extended Timeline : “The long-running legal saga involving Wade Robson and James Safechuck’s civil cases against the Michael Jackson Estate continues, with yet another extension of the timeline. According to recent court filings, both the plaintiffs’ attorneys, the Estate’s legal team, and the appointed discovery referee have jointly agreed to extend all discovery deadlines by six months. The new proposed deadline is February 10, 2027. This comes amid a series of scheduling challenges and delays that have impacted the process on both sides. A status conference is still on the calendar for July 11, where the judge will consider this proposed extension. If approved, it means any potential trial in these cases would likely be pushed to spring 2027 at the earliest.”

September 24 : Michael Jackson’s Accusers Wade Robson and James Safechuck Demand 9-Figure Sum Over Alleged Abuse (Exclusive) : 3Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who have accused Michael Jackson of sexually assaulting them as children, are demanding $400 million in court, Us Weekly can exclusively report. John Branca and John McClain, the two men in charge of the late pop star’s estate, dropped the revelation in court documents related to Jackson’s daughter Paris Jackson’s separate request about legal fees.

2024

February 03 : Wade Robson and James Safechuck are now asking the judge to combine their cases and allow them to go to trial together. “This motion is made on the grounds that all actions arise out of the same type of harmful, abusive, course of conduct, by the same Defendants, at the same locations and physical places, in the presence of the same employees, employed by Defendants, during the same time period, in a pattern of abuse that was common to both Plaintiffs,” their lawyers stated in court documents. The trial conference on the motion is still set for February 28 before Judge Mark A. Young for the Robson’s case.

February 09 : Susan Yu was by the side of Thomas Mesereau during the 2005 trial and she has now joined the Michael Jackson Estate defense team against the Robson & Safechuck lawsuit.

February 20 : The Estate agrees to let Robson & Safechuck combine their cases

Lawyers for Michael Jackson’s companies informed the court that they are agreeing with Wade Robson and James Safechuck’s plea to consolidate their lawsuits into one case. This motion to combine cases was filled at the beginning of the month. The Estate also requested to move the case to the Complex Litigation Program which means the case will move court location in Los Angeles.

February 28 : Pre trial hearing in the Robson case : No trial date set. Trial readiness hearing is June 5, 2024. Judge wants their reports by May 22, 2024. All other info I have to wait for. “A lawyer for Jackson’s companies said during the hearing that her clients plan to waive a three-year speedy trial rule because she believes the case won’t be ready for jurors until after December 2026. She said the trial likely would last more than 20 days with dozens of witnesses.” Estate is looking for December of 2026 or later for trial.

MJ Estate attorneys on discovery: “Before this case can be tried, there are numerous discovery issues and legal issues that need to be addressed, making it impractical to have this matter ready for trial within 12 months. …The deposition of third- party Charli Michaels remains open and needs to be completed. Robson’s deposition was also left open. As discussed below, however, there is extensive additional discovery needed as a result of Robson’s participation in the Leaving Neverland film.”

Wade & James express they are open to alternative dispute resolutions via mediation. This is common when hoping to reach a pre-trial settlement. (Contradicting their “we just want a platform to speak!”) The defense is NOT open to any ADR.

February 29 : Taj Jackson : “I am privy to knowing a lot of what is coming way down the MJ pipeline and what isn’t. And because of that, I have access to certain news and info that affects EVERYTHING in the Michael Jackson universe. There really is a strategy to all of this, and like chess…the bigger the pieces, the more important the moves are. The way I do things might not make complete sense at first to some of you, but I am ALWAYS doing what’s best for the project and ultimately my uncle. Even to the detriment to my own self, health, family or career. I do need to find a better balance though.

Which leads me to my next thought. I’m taking you along with me on this journey. Maybe then we will get a better understanding together and you will see the magnitude and progress of the project firsthand. That means vlogs, behind the scenes footage and clips in upcoming updates. But this silence thing is not working for either you or me.

Of course I will still keep some nice surprises along the way, because where’s the fun of knowing everythWe fought side by side these years fighting for MJ’s legacy. I need you side by side with me now. Not in the dark. I’m done with feeling isolated, alone and vulnerable.

I am welcoming more transparency, within limitations of course. And you guys will have to trust that if I cannot say, comment, or address something publicly, there really is a bigger and important reason. That being said, I want you guys to know there has been a slight alteration in the name of the project. Well we actually went back to one of the original names we had. Certain people close to me and also many of you suggested that the phrase “Re_Righting” could have a negative connotation… as if I we were trying to re-write history by altering the facts and truth. Of course this is the farthest thing from what I would do. But that has never stopped the press .

And knowing the media, they would run with this anyway. I could see it now… Mainstream Media Version: The nephew of Michael Jackson wants to re-write his uncle’s troubled past. Or how about the Tabloid version: Michael Jacksons’s nephew desperately attempts to re-write Jacko’story… not so fast!

So we are back to…. “Righting HIStory” Just as strong, powerful and direct.. In the end I am righting the wrong about my uncle’s legacy.”

March 23 : Thomas Mesereau has filed a 14 page questionnaire which will grill former Neverland Ranch Security Guard who previously claimed to have seen Michael Jackson touching accuser Wade Robson. Charli Michaels, former employee at the Neverland Ranch, claimed to have witnessed the inappropriate behaviour and came to light in 1993 during the Jordan Chandler trial.

April 09 : The Estate is fighting to keep sealed photos of Michael from 1993 : Michael Jackson Estate is fighting to keep sealed court records out of the hands of Robson and Safechuck ahead of trial. Robson and Safechuck’s lawyers have subpoenas the county sheriff’s offices and the district attorneys of Los Angeles and Santa Barbara counties to obtain sealed police records from the 1993 case. The Estate believes that Robson and Safechuck’s are after those photos taken by the police.

April 28 : In a new emotional and determined post on his GoFundMe page, Taj Jackson has announced that a website for his documentary “Righting HIStory” will be ready next month.

May 09 : Jennifer Keller, part of the MJ Estate attorney group who are defending MJ’s companies has filed a Motion for Order to enforce John Carpenter, Robson/Safechuck attorney to comply with California Rules of Professional Conduct. Keller’s claims are that Carpenter is trying the case in the press, giving improper interviews to Rolling Stone, Variety, TMZ, The Daily Beast and The Daily Mail. Court date is requested for July 1, 2024.

May 25 : Robson & Safechuck’s trial potentially pushed to 2026

According to court documents, the Robson and Safechuck’s trial might be set to August 17, 2026. Depending on the judge’s confirmation on June 5, it seems that all parties are in agreement despite earlier reports that the “plaintiffs” wanted the court date to be before the release of the upcoming Michael Jackson Biopic next April. Court documents also showcase that Robson and Safechuck proposed a settlement stated that the Estate admit that Michael Jackson abused them during their childhood. However, the Estate’s team has no interest in settling saying those allegations are “unequivocally” false.

June 01 : Taj Jackson : “I am thrilled to finally be able to share with you that Sheryl & June Valone, from the incredible “The Michael Jackson Case for Innocence “podcast, are officially working on “Righting HIStory”. Their involvement, knowledge and perspective over the past year has been invaluable.”

June 25 : On the 15th anniversary of Michael Jackson’s death, his nephew Taj Jackson has announced that Brett Barnes has joined his documentary project as a co-producer. He has also launched a website for the project : https://www.rightinghistory.com/a-statement-from-brett-barnes/

Taj’s Statement:
I had the pleasure to meet and get to know Brett Barnes and his family during the 2005 trial. Not only did we immediately bond over our mutual love for Michael, but we have remained friends ever since.
Last month I got to catch up and hang out with all of the Barnes family in person after nearly 2 decades and that amazing bond was strengthen even more. I am happy to finally be able to publicly announce that Brett will officially be joining our production team as a Co-Executive Producer of Righting HIStory. It is imperative to me that besides righting the wrong regarding the various lies about Michael Jackson, that my uncle’s spirit and love shine through this project as well. I know Brett will help me make sure of that.

— Taj

Brett’s Statement:
I first met Taj during the 2005 trial. We immediately hit it off and have remained good friends since then. I have found that we share the same admiration and respect for Michael Jackson. Taj has personally taken it upon himself to keep the legacy of Michael Jackson alive from his numerous media appearances as well as working behind the scenes on other campaigns. Today I am happy to announce that I have officially joined Taj’s Righting HIStory production team to help ensure that Michael’s real essence and soul are captured in this project. The world will finally get to know the true Michael Jackson. I am entrusting Taj in telling my family’s close relationship with Michael. I look forward to working together with Taj on Righting HIStory to expose the many lies and rumors about my friend, Michael Jackson.

— Brett

August 22 : Judge says no to use the precedent criminal case files

A California judge ruled in favor of Michael Jackson’s estate on Thursday (August 22), denying a request by accusers Wade Robson and James Safechuck to access “the entirety of the criminal file” related to child molestation allegations against Michael Jackson in Santa Barbara County and Los Angeles County dating back to the early 1990s. The request included photographs of Michael Jackson’s nude body and genitalia taken during a 1993 criminal investigation. Although the plaintiffs disagree with the structure of the discovery and motion schedule proposed by the defense, they have agreed to the defendant’s request for a trial date in 2026 or sooner, depending on the availability of the court and defense counsel. During an April 26, 2024, meet-and-confer, the defendants proposed a trial date of August 17, 2026. The plaintiffs did not object to this date or suggest any alternatives. The next court date is scheduled for October 22.

October 30 : Update on the trial readiness hearing

Currently, the next tentative court date has been scheduled for December 20, 2024. However, Carpenter noted he might be on vacation during this time, potentially requiring further adjustments.

November 15 : Taj Jackson : “2 Months Since My Pop’s Death.

For the first time since starting this project, I have had to take a selfish break from “Righting HIStory”. Since September 15, the day my dad died, I have felt completely lost. My dad was my biggest supporter and the one who believed in me when no one else did. Whenever I doubted my abilities, he was there to push me to overcome that doubt. He believed in “Righting HIStory” so much that he even wrote and signed a quick statement in order to help me secure outside investors for this project. Losing my dad wasn’t just a personal loss—it was a loss for “Righting HIStory” as well. His unwavering support was irreplaceable, and it feels like this journey is missing a vital piece without him.

A lot of the strength and courage I draw upon to fight for my uncle Michael’s legacy came directly from watching my dad. He was always calm, cool, and, most importantly, authentic. My dad’s steadfast loyalty to Michael never wavered. He was a tireless advocate for his brother, always ready to stand up and correct misconceptions. He did it with a quiet dignity that showed the depth of their bond. Watching him defend Michael with such passion and grace taught me so much about loyalty, integrity, and standing up for what you believe in. I will forever be grateful for the example he set.

My dad’s brotherly pride in Michael was immeasurable. He celebrated every one of Michael’s milestones as if they were his own, cherishing each moment of his brother’s success. Even after Michael passed, my dad dedicated himself to protecting his younger brother’s character, sharing personal stories that revealed the kind, generous man Michael truly was. I know the strength I have to continue fighting for Michael’s legacy comes from my dad. He wasn’t just Michael’s bigger brother—he was his friend, protector, and one of his most loyal supporters. I’m proud to carry on that fight, inspired by the man who taught me how.

I wrote all this because although it will personally be a hard road ahead for me, I am more determined than ever to knock “Righting History” out of the park for both MJ and Poppa T.”

December 20 : Today’s Trial Readiness Conference : Judge only discussed time/date. Judge building in cushion (readiness/status/motion dates) to anticipate issues for a trial target date of Nov 23rd 2026 Another Status Conference: March 14th 2025.

December 24 : The MJ Cast Episode 174 is released : Season Ten Christmas Special with Taj Jackson, Elise Capron, Jamon Bull, Charles Thomson, and Charlie Carter.

In a new interview given to the MJCast, Taj Jackson reveals that his docuseries #RightingHIStory has been postponed after #MichaelMovie so at best late 2025 or early 2026.