Michael Jackson’s Nephew Slams ‘Leaving Neverland’ as ‘One-Sided Hit Job’
Michael Jackson's family is speaking out ahead of the release of Leaving Neverland, a four-hour expose about the late singer's alleged abuse.
The film, which premiered at Sundance Film Festival on Friday, focuses on James Safechuck and Wade Robson's claims about being taken advantage of by the star. Jackson's family, specifically nephew Taj Jackson, isn't happy fans are having this conversation yet again. He has repeatedly denounced the allegations.
"My family and I have known Wade and his family since he came to America. Don't tell me a 4 hour one sided hit job that you watched is more reputable than people who actually knew him and saw his interactions," he wrote. "This is all about money and the desperate need to be relevant again."
Taj, 45, also accused Robson and Safechuck of "acting." He slammed the pair for "condemning an innocent man."
"After years of coaching and studying for these roles, I'm sure Wade (self proclaimed 'Master of Deception') and Jimmy both gave Oscar winning performances today," he wrote. "Media, please do a 10 minute google search before you condemn an innocent man who is no longer here to defend himself."
The musician's nephew created a GoFundMe page supporting his late uncle after the film was announced. He hoped to use the money to create his own documentary, which would "conclusively destroy decades of salacious myths which have been told and sold about Michael Jackson." The campaign raised more than $28,000 or the $777,000 it set out to raise.
Michael's estate has also spoken out against the film, calling it "tabloid character assassination in a statement to People.
"The two accusers testified under oath that these events never occurred. They have provided no independent evidence and absolutely no proof in support of their accusations, which means the entire film hinges solely on the word of two perjurers," the statement said.