Michael Jackson’s Kids: The Joe Jackson Factor
Michael Jackson’s intention was clear — he wanted his mother to take care of his kids.
[Bauer Griffin Online]
Now that today’s hearing on guardianship of the kids has been postponed until next week, however, satisfying MJ’s wishes may become more challenging for three reasons: (1) Debbie Rowe; (2) Joe Jackson; and (3) the court.
Lawyers confirm that Debbie and Katherine are trying to resolve the future of the kids privately. Any such resolution might result in Debbie’s involvement with the kids, which MJ clearly did not contemplate. Meanwhile, Joe tells ABC News:
“Their grandmother Katherine and I should raise them. Yes there’s no one else who can do what we can do for them. We should keep them all together and make them happy. Feed them like they are supposed to be fed.”
MJ approved neither of these options, but his opinion and wishes do not guarantee placement of children. Children are not property, so they cannot be passed along in a will without court intervention.
The parent’s opinion matters to the court, but the best interests of the children outweigh everything else. Given that the world is watching and MJ’s judgment may be called into question as further evidence of a drug addiction emerges, the court has a difficult task ahead.
Popsquire will be watching!
I bet Joe is making those poor kids sing in the basement right now.