In a brief video, an exclusive release from media outlet CNN, Michael Jackson is seen rehearsing for his planned “This Is It” concert series just days before his untimely death on June 25. (See embedded video below.)
The footage, just over a minute-and-a-half long, shows Jackson performing the song “They Don’t Care About Us” at the Staples Center on June 23.
Despite media reports that the singer was increasingly frail in his final weeks and days, Jackson appears healthy in the video as he canvases the stage backed by a troupe of male dancers.
Randy Phillips, president and CEO of Jackson’s concert promoter AEG Live, recently told an England-based media outlet that video footage of the rehearsals could be used as part of a tribute concert for Jackson, featuring his siblings and other recording artists.
Jackson had been using the Staples Center as his rehearsal base before the production was to move overseas for its 50-date run at the O2 Arena in London.
According to breaking reports, the Los Angeles arena will also be used to house a public memorial for the late pop music legend on Tuesday, June 7. Details of the service have not been announced, such as how admission will be handled for the 20,000-seat venue.
