Michael Jackson back in U.S.; next stop, Japan

[b]Michael Jackson back in U.S.; next stop, Japan[/b] January 26, 2007 BY ERIC TALMADGE Associated Press TOKYO—- Since Michael Jackson forsook his Neverland Ranch, the King of Pop has popped up in some very unexpected places. He’s taken up residence in the Gulf state of Bahrain, in France and even in a castle in Ireland. He showed up in Augusta, Ga., to give a eulogy at James Brown’s funeral, and materialized in London to accept an award for his contributions to the world of pop music. Lately he’s been spotted in Las Vegas on his famed shopping sprees. So where is he now? In a rare conference call, the singer emerged with his spokeswoman Friday to confirm to The Associated Press that he is back in the United States after more than a year in self-imposed exile following his acquittal in a high-profile child molestation trial that ended in June 2005. They also said he is on the comeback trail — planning a pair of ”fan appreciation events” in Japan in March, one of which will charge $3,300 for the opportunity to meet the Gloved One. ”I can confirm that he is in the United States,” spokeswoman Raymone K. Bain said. ”We don’t give out information regarding our client’s whereabouts because of safety, and this is just an ongoing policy.” During the brief conference call, Jackson read a statement prepared for The Associated Press about his plans to visit Japan and allowed only one question: How are you? ”I’m fine, thank you,” was his reply. Jackson, one of the best-selling artists of all time, said he has chosen to come back to Japan because of the strong support he enjoys here. ”My friends and fans in Japan have been so supportive of me and my family for many, many years,” he said. ”My fans in Japan helped me achieve historic milestones in the music industry.” Broderick Morris, the promoter working the Japan side of Jackson’s trip, said they have sold 220 of 300 tickets to a ”platinum VIP party” on March 8 with Jackson, at $3,300 a pop. Guests will have dinner, get autographed photos and be able to ”meet and greet” Jackson for 30 seconds to one minute, he said. A less-exclusive party is scheduled for the following day. Jackson is not obligated to perform at either event, and promoters refused to comment on how much Jackson, 48, would be paid. Jackson made his first official foray back into the spotlight after his acquittal with an appearance — again, in Tokyo — to accept MTV Japan’s ”Legend Award.” Last November, he allowed the syndicated TV show ”Access Hollywood” to film him in the studio, working on music with producer will.i.am from the Black Eyed Peas. source: [url=http://www.suntimes.com/entertainment/people/231230,jackson012607.article]Sun Times[/url]