The famous Jackson clan has endured some heavy blows over the past few months with family members squabbling over the recent Michael Jackson tribute concert and the entire family dealing with the grueling involuntary manslaughter trial of Michael’s accused killer, Dr. Conrad Murray. In the wake of such events, little sister, Janet Jackson, has now announced that she’s rescheduling part of her Australian tour so she can return home and support her family during the ongoing trial.
According to the Associated Press, Janet released a statement on Oct. 23, announcing the changes to her “Number Ones” tour.
“When I planned these shows, the schedule in California was completely different,” she said, who appeared at court during the early days of the trial. “After talking with my family last night, I decided we must be together right now. …. This saddens me in so many ways.”
Janet was originally scheduled to perform in Melbourne on Oct. 26, 27 and 29 but will now perform just one night in Rod Laver Arena on Nov. 3.
Despite the abrupt changes, tour promoters announced their support of Janet’s decision and wished the best for the Jackson clan.
“It is important that Janet is with her family at this critical point in the hearing. While Janet and our company apologize for any inconvenience for the reschedule of the Melbourne shows, we thank Janet for the great and successful concerts in Perth and Adelaide and eagerly await her return. … Our thoughts and prayers are with Janet and the entire Jackson family,” said promoter Paul Dainty.
As the manslaughter trial presses on, the prosecution concluded their case on Oct. 24, making way for Murray’s defense team to begin their case in the trial. –nicholas robinson
