Barack Obama On Michael Jackson

The recent death of Michael Jackson has affected millions around the globe including, it seems, the President of the United States.

During his sensational career, Michael Jackson became an instantly recognisable icon. With his moonwalk and distinctive dress sense, the much imitated singer's fame dwarfed that of fellow entertainers.

Having met with world leaders on several occasions, Michael Jackson had continually campaigned for causes close to his heart. At one stage, the singer was even inducted into the Guinness Book Of Records after admitting to supporting almost forty different charities - the most for any celebrity.

With this track record, it is not surprising that prominent politicians are keen to pay tribute to the star. Although his fame and stature had waned in his final years, Michael Jackson continued to campaign on behalf of charities almost until his death.

In a new interview Barack Obama revealed his thoughts on the singer's death. "I grew up on his music - still have all his stuff on my iPod," Obama was reported as saying by Associated Press, adding that Jackson "will go down in history as one of our greatest entertainers."

"I think that his brilliance as a performer also was paired with a tragic and, in many ways, sad personal life," Obama said.

"I'm glad to see that he is being remembered primarily for the great joy that he brought to a lot of people through his extraordinary gifts as an entertainer."

Some fans have questioned Obama after the President failed to issue a statement following the singer's death. However the politician insisted that he had simply not been asked about Jackson's demise.

Over on this side of the Atlantic, politicians have continued the tide of mourning after the singer's death. Prime Minister Gordon Brown said his thoughts were with Michael Jackson's fans.

"This is very sad news for the millions of Michael Jackson fans in Britain and around the world," a spokesman said.

Leader of the Conservative David Cameron revealed his grief at the singer's death. "Despite the controversies, he was a legendary entertainer. Everybody will be thinking of his family, especially his children, at this time."