Fans mourn Michael Jackson's death
Distraught at being deprived one last chance to see the singer perform on his planned farewell tour before he hung up his dancing shoes – including 50 concerts in London – they posted heartfelt tributes on social networking sites including Facebook after hearing of his death from a suspected heart attack.
On one Facebook group, called Michael Jackson Tribute, with 434 members, Anish Raj, from New Zealand, wrote: "Michael Jackson you will always be in our hearts. Rest in peace."
Raj Pankhania, from Cranford Community College, wrote: "R.I.P Total Legend so close 2 making those concerts it was just not meant 2 be."
Lynn Khoo wrote: "My deepest condolences to the Jackson's family. MJ, you will always be remembered as the "KING OF POP". R.I.P Michael."
Adam Lui in Australia summed it up in three words: "simply the legend."
Other comments were less charitable, alluding to child abuse allegations Jackson had been dogged by.
But for others, the news brought only sadness.
Andy Cunningham wrote: "In many ways this man touched the hearts of everyone who listened to his music, watched his performances, was entertained by his films and seen him live."
Michael Adrian Vickers, from the West Midlands, wrote: "RIP Michael.... Your music will live on strong."
Celebrities also paid tribute.
In a statement, Lisa Marie Presley said: "I am so very sad and confused with every emotion possible.
"I am heartbroken for his children, who I know were everything to him and for his family. This is such a massive loss on so many levels, words fail me."
A host of celebrities from the music and entertainment worlds lined up to acknowledge the star's genius.
Madonna said: "I can't stop crying over the sad news.
"I've always admired Michael Jackson – the world has lost one of its greats but his music will live on forever.
"My heart goes out to his three children and other members of his family. God bless."
Justin Timberlake said: "I can't find the words right now to express how deeply saddened I am by Michael's passing.
"We have lost a genius and a true ambassador of not only pop music, but of all music.
Music producer Quincy Jones said: "I am absolutely devastated at this tragic and unexpected news."
He said Jackson "had it all – talent, grace, professionalism and dedication".
He added: "I've lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone with him."
Friend and actor Joe Pesci told Fox News: "He was a fun kid and did so much. He always reinvented himself time and time again and certainly was a great entertainer and dancer and great to watch with all that energy.
"He was excited about getting back to the stage. He was downhearted for a while and I think he finally got himself up."
Michael Jackson
