BBC Two - Michael Jackson: An American Tragedy, Series 1, Episode 1 (original) (raw)

Episode 1

With access to insiders, including his sister La Toya, this episode charts Jackson’s rise from child prodigy to global star. But some concerning behaviour raises troubling questions.

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With unique access to friends and family, including Jackson’s sister La Toya, this episode charts Michael Jackson’s journey from child performer to a deeply troubled musical icon.

Behind The Jackson 5, the family act that launched Michael to fame, was a household described by insiders as driven by fear as much as by talent. An offer of a film role helps Michael gain independence from his controlling father, causing tensions and resentments within the family. This leads to Michael's search for authentic connections elsewhere, including among the Jehovah's Witnesses.

In 1982, Michael releases his masterpiece Thriller, catapulting him to megastardom and turning him into a global business empire. But the pressures of fame begin to weigh heavily, and colleagues also describe a pattern in Michael’s behaviour: a preference for the company of children.

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Credits

Role Contributor
Director Sophie Fuller
Executive Producer Mark Raphael
Executive Producer Rob Coldstream
Editor Sam Bergson
Producer Laura Spence
Composer Sam Thompson
Production Company 72 Films

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