LOS ANGELES -- Michael Jackson’s mother, Katherine, has filed for guardianship of the singer’s three children, according to a court document.
The guardianship papers were filed in Los Angeles Superior Court Monday. A hearing has been set for Aug 3.
Jackson left behind three children:
- “Prince” Michael Joseph Jackson, Jr., 12
- Paris Michael Katherine Jackson, 11
- Prince Michael Jackson II, 7
The youngest son, whom the late singer nicknamed “Blanket,” was born to a surrogate mother.
Family Orders Second Autopsy
A second autopsy has reportedly been performed on Michael Jackson at the request of his family.
According to the Los Angeles Times, a private pathologist hired by the Jackson family performed the procedure over the weekend.
There was no immediate word on the findings.
A medical examiner not involved in the case said a second autopsy would allow the family to get some information about the death almost immediately, including any organ disease or needle punctures.
Personal Doctor Speaks
A lawyer for Jackson’s personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, said the singer still had a slight pulse when the cardiologist discovered him in bed Thursday and noticed he was not breathing.
Murray’s lawyer said the doctor immediately began CPR.
The lawyer also said any drugs Murray prescribed for Jackson were for specific medical problems.
Family Thanks Supporters At BET Awards
Some of the biggest stars on the planet turned back into gushing Michael Jackson fans at the BET Awards Sunday night, donning single gloves, swapping stories about their idol and singing the “King of Pop’s” standards.
One person who perhaps knew him best, though, brought the night into perspective: His sister.
“To you, Michael is an icon,” a somber Janet Jackson told the crowd at the end of the show. “To us, Michael is family, and he will forever live in all of our hearts.”
“On behalf of my family and myself, thank you for all of your love. Thank you for all of your support,” Janet Jackson said. “We miss him so much. Thank you so much.”
Jackson’s father also made an appearance at the BET awards.
During an interview, Joe Jackson said Michael’s children are the family’s first priority.
Joe Jackson also thanked everyone around the world for the love and support they have given the family since his son’s death Thursday.
Plans for Michael Jackson’s funeral remain unclear. The family is said to be still working on arrangements.
Jackson’s Brothers Visit Neverland
Three of Michael Jackson’s brothers spent part of the weekend walking around their brother’s Neverland Ranch.
Jackie, Jermaine and Tito Jackson had lunch at the ranch, and reportedly walked the grounds, reminiscing about Michael’s life.
It is not clear what will become of the ranch, which has been under renovations.
Investors of the ranch said they want to hear the family’s thoughts on how best to honor Jackson’s memory.
Michael Jackson nearly lost the ranch to foreclosure.
Obama Writes To Jackson Family
Top White House adviser David Axelrod said President Barack Obama has written a private letter to Michael Jackson’s family.
Axelrod said the president expressed his condolences directly to the Jacksons.
White House aides said there are no plans to release the letter to the public, but said Obama saw the pop star as a spectacular performer who made an undeniable impact on music and entertainment.
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