Jackson Family Issue Statement

The death of Michael Jackson has left a profound hole in the world of entertainment, yet in a new statement his family have reminded fans that a man lay behind the public image.

Michael Jackson shot to fame as the lead singer of The Jackson 5. A child star, he entered the music business at an early age. Gaining a once in a lifetime schooling at Motown Michael Jackson soon eclipsed his peers and with the solo album 'Off The Wall' became a global icon in his own right.

The singer's relationship with his family was notoriously poor. Industry rumour had long spoken of dischord with the Jackson dynasty, while Michael Jackson had often spoken of being taunted and bullied by his older brothers.

Yet a proposed re-union by The Jackson 5 last year led many to believe that the family had managed to put aside their differences. Although that proposal fell through it is well known that Jackson had a profound love for his family.

In a statement the singer's brother Jermaine paid tribute to his younger sibling:

"My brother, the legendary king of pop, Michael Jackson, passed away on Thursday, June 25, at 2.26 pm."

"It is believed he suffered cardiac arrest in his home. However, the cause of his death is unknown until the results of the autopsy are known."

"The personal physician who was with him at the time attempted to resuscitate my brother, as did paramedics who transported him to the hospital."

"Upon arriving at the hospital at approximately 1.14 pm, a team of doctors, including emergency physicians and cardiologists, attempted to resuscitate him for a period of one hour and they were unsuccessful."

"Our family requests that the media please respect our privacy during this tough time, and may Allah be with you Michael."

Michael Jackson's death has left fans around the world shocked and bewildered. Just 50 years old, a number of huge stars have lined up to pay tribute to the 'Thriller' icon including Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Blur and many more.