BBC CHART THE LIFE AND CAREER OF MICHAEL JACKSON IN NEW THREE-PART DOCUMENTARY SERIES

The BBC have reportedly commissioned new three-part documentary series from 72 Films, airing on BBC Two, which will chart the life and career of the once-King Of Pop.

A source told The Sun newspaper: "The BBC documentary is neither intended as a hatchet job, nor a glowing fluff piece about Jackson, it's intended to look at the phenomenal figure in the round. The production team behind the show have a reputation for taking a deep dive into the stories of hugely important global figures, and this is likely to be one of the most eagerly anticipated biographies of Jacko."

Meanwhile, Channel 4 have commissioned Wonderhood Studios to produce a landmark 4 x 60-minute series ‘The Trial of Michael Jackson’ (working title). The series will feature contributors who have never spoken before to plot the story of Michael Jackson’s 2005 criminal trial alongside Jackson’s rise to fame and life in the spotlight.

Over 2,000 journalists from across the world descended upon the small city of Santa Maria, California for Michael Jackson’s 2005 trial. Channels interrupted their regular broadcasting to show 24 hour rolling news coverage of the events. E! Entertainment and Sky News even worked together to recreate the trial, using a Michael Jackson impersonator as a stand-in for Jackson in the dock.

Now, by revisiting the “trial of the century” in forensic detail, this premium, archive-driven series not only explores the relationship between Michael Jackson and the media, but also documents Jackson’s life story, as lived in the gaze of cameras. In doing so the series seeks to ask wider questions about race, fame, journalistic ethics and the American justice system.

Anna Miralis, Senior Commissioning Editor says:  “Made by an multi-award- winning production company,  this remarkable series is destined to be compelling, insightful and truly remarkable.  Many will remember the tumultuous media frenzy and the lasting effect it had on Jackson.  The astonishing archive and accounts given by those featured will no doubt offer up a unique insight into this momentous trial and Jackson himself. “

Samantha Anstiss, Chief Creative Officer, Wonderhood Studios says “ Michael Jackson’s mesmerising performances and groundbreaking music have made him one of the world’s most enduring global icons whose music is still listened to by millions across the globe...

"But in 2005 he faced the most dramatic 6 months of his life as he stood accused of heinous crimes. Through the prism of the trial in which he was found not guilty we explore his life, alongside themes of race, justice, money and fame, to tell this tragic tale."

The Trial Of Michael Jackson will air on Channel 4.