Michael Jackson: One Year Later

Jun 24, 2010 7:00 AM EDT

On June 25, 2009, the world stood still when pop legend Michael Jackson was reported dead of a drug overdose, days before he was to kick off a comeback tour. A year later, we examine his legacy.

losing-micahel-jackson-samuels-hsmall — Carlo Allegri / Getty Images

Gone, But Hardly Forgotten

I feel a little guilty as the anniversary of Michael Jackson’s death arrives. It’s the guilt of abandonment: the guilt of a fan who loved Jackson as a performer, and then turned on him as he struggled with the personal demons that ended his life.
By Allison Samuels

Video Exclusive: PS22 Choir Does “Man in the Mirror”

Viral sensations perform in Newsweek.com exclusive: the kids of Staten Island’s PS22 choir eulogize Jackson with a track they’ve never performed: “Man in the Mirror.” (Video is muted to left: click volume for sound)

michael-jackson-doctor-hsmall — Mark Boster / Pool-Getty Images

The Key Players: Where Are They Now?

Michael’s death lead to more questions than answers—and in some sense, Jackson’s legacy lives on in the lives of those still dealing with the fallout of his passing. One year later, a look at those unfinished stories.
By Raina Kelley

michael-jackson-merch-hsmall — Victor Fraile / Getty Images

One Year, $1 Billion

Profiting from Jackson’s death is its own cottage industry—and since last summer alone, Jackson’s estate has made an estimated $1 billion. Here’s a round-up of some of this week’s most egregious anniversary merchandise.
By Isia Jasiewicz

michael-jackson-finding-neverland-tease — Kevork Djansezian / AP

Who Was Michael Jackson?

He was the king of pop, and he’s the last we’re ever likely to have. Before Jackson came Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and the Beatles; after him has come absolutely no one, however brilliant or however popular, who couldn’t be ignored.
By David Gates