On Monday, hundreds of Michael Jackson fans gathered in London (UK) to pay tribute to Michael on the night when he was supposed to be opening his ‘This Is It’ tour.
Many present had bought tickets for the opening night but had decided to come anyway. At 7 pm many of the crowd joined hands and sang “We Are the World,” and chanted “Michael! King of Pop.”
“I’m here to pay tribute to the king,” said Morganna Bramah (29), a web site artist, who had just returned from Los Angeles where she had hoped to attend last week’s memorial for Jackson. “It’s one of the most devastating heartbreaking things that has ever happened in my life. I just felt it was my duty to pay my respects who has given so much magic and light and beauty to my life.”
Martin Russo (28) and Enrico Ardito (34) had travelled from Italy for the tribute.
“I grew up with his music and he is my only idol,” said Russo. “He had a special bond with his fans. Michael cared truly.”
Sophie Bradley (25), who had flown in from the Middle East, said she had come to say thank you to MichaelJackson.
“I had to come here. He was a father figure and a role model. It’s a chance for fans to talk and share stories and just remember how much he means to us.”
Gemma White and Terry Shaw said they were still “in denial” about Jackson’s death.
“I feel like I’ve lost a brother, a lover and a friend,” said White. “People say he was only a pop star but to us he wasn’t. He was in our hearts. He was a person and the fans got to see that.” “We came down here for Michael,” added Shaw. “It was the last thing we could do for him. It had to be done.”
Jessica Prater (28) from New York had tickets for Monday’s show and had decided she would still come to London.
“I didn’t know so many people across the world were inspired by him. I’ve met fans from Finland, Germany, France, the Congo. It’s like a family reunion where you meet your long lost relatives. I’m really feeling the love and I know Michael’s spirit is definitely here .”
Large whiteboards were erected at the O2 to allow fans to leave messages. After the vigil they’ll be moved to opposite the box office so fans can continue to pay their respects.
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