The massive run of concerts organised by Michael Jackson could be set to earn the city of London anything up to £300 million.
The King Of Pop has returned to seize back his throne. Titled ‘This Is It’ the run of 50 shows at the O2 Arena constitute the biggest live music event the nation has seen in some time.
Beginning on July 8th, the shows will continue into 2010 and are already sold out. According to promoter AEG Live, the city itself will benefit hugely from the concerts.
“We’re not in this for the money. We’re taking a huge risk on Michael. Forgetting tickets, the local economy will get $500m,” a spokesperson told The Telegraph newspaper.
AEG chief executive Randy Phillips also denied that the residency had been caused by Jackson’s money problems. “They make out Michael’s finances are much more dire than they are,” he told The Telegraph.
“I asked him straight off: why say yes to the tour now? Was it the money? He said: you know what, my kids are old enough now.”
Phillips added: “If Mike gets too nervous to go on, I’ll throw him over my shoulder and carry him on stage. He’s light enough.”
