Best friends are snubbed
MICHAEL JACKSON embraces diva Diana Ross, his adored “second mom” – but his family barred her from the singer’s memorial service, it was claimed yesterday.
Three of the superstar’s closest female friends – Ross, Hollywood icon Elizabeth Taylor and TV chat queen Oprah Winfrey – were apparently snubbed by Michael’s parents Katherine and Joseph.
The whole Jackson clan was said to have been infuriated by his enduring friendship with Taylor, 77.
New York columnist Cindy Adams revealed: “She was always Michael’s friend, not the family’s. They resented her. Elizabeth Taylor was crushed and she’s still crying.”
The actress yesterday sent a Twitter message to fans, saying: “I’m still grieving for Michael. I always will.” She added: “I am a survivor.”
A source said Katherine accused Diana Ross, 65, of “poisoning her son against his own flesh and blood”.
The Jacksons are convinced the Motown legend persuaded Michael to appear on the Oprah show in 1993 when he spoke for the first time about his extreme loneliness and his father’s cruelty.