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J. Randy Taraborrelli, the man who was sat right behind Michael Jackson in court as the verdicts came in, joins host Charles Thomson for the MJCast’s annual Vindication Day Special, recognizing the 21st anniversary of Jackson’s resounding 2005 acquittal.
Randy is the author of more than 20 books, most of which have become New York Times bestsellers, including his landmark Michael Jackson biography, The Magic and the Madness. After years of silence, he has granted The MJCast what he says will be his first and last Michael Jackson podcast interview.
He first met Michael in Philadelphia in 1970 (thanks to an invitation from Diana Ross) and last spoke to him in the years after the trial.
In this discussion, Randy tells Charles about getting to know Michael, writing his book, navigating the allegations in his dual role as a friend and a reporter, and almost coming to blows with Evan Chandler.
He recounts covering the trial, explains how the Cascio family drove him out of the Michael Jackson business, and tells us why he broke cover to participate in the controversial new Netflix series about the trial.
This emotional conversation is a true scoop for the MJCast, as Randy tells us stories he has never told publicly before, then vows never to give such an interview again.
This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.
Additional Links
• J. Randy Taraborrelli’s official website.
• Taraborrelli’s book on MJ, Michael Jackson: The Magic, The Madness, The Whole Story.
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