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Michael Jackson Fans React to His Death
The King of Pop
Celebrated by people both young and mature from all over the world, Michael Jackson wasn’t just an musician, he was an American icon. ESSENCE.com took the street just hours after his passing to get reaction from some of his biggest fans as they react to his death, share their favorite Michael Jackson moment and reflect on the man who will forever be known as The King of Pop.


Our hearts are broken. Thank you Michael for sharing your gifts and talent with the world. You have changed music and our culture forever. Only the greatest among us can do that. We love you, we miss you, we will ALWAYS remember you. All hail the King of Pop.
Posted at 2:43PM on June 27th 2009 by Sharon Holloway
I am still devistated by Micheal's death. Even though it has been 2 days I still just could not believe it. This man has made an impact in so many peoples lives, just as he did in mine. I remember when I was 3 or 4 years old seeing thriller for the first time, how I had nightmares, but couldn't stop watching it. I would make my big sister so mad at me. LOL.. I remember growing up listening to my mother's 45's the Jackson 5. Seeing him young I thought he was my age and we were boyfriend and girlfriend. MIcheal can never be replaced, he will always will be remembered. I love you Micheal Michelle Williams out of Clarksville, TN
Posted at 11:10AM on June 27th 2009 by Michelle Williams
I am devastated by the passing of Michael Jackson. So many entertainers today have been touched or influenced by this great man! He was a gentle spirit. I pray that he is happy and at peace. Mr. Jackson, you were a BEAUTIFUL SOUL!!! God bless your children and family. They are all in my prayers!!!!
Posted at 8:26AM on June 27th 2009 by C
I am so saddened and shocked by this news. I can't even write the words and it pains me to see the word "death" associated with his name. It's painful to see on television. I do want to send my deepest condolences to the entire family. There is one more thing I would like to say. . .as great and innovative as Michael Jackson is. . .he did not create the moonwalk. In black neighborhoods, this dance move was called backsliding and many kids did this dance long before Michael introduced it to the mainstream. He did not, however, create this dance as so many have said. I think that is important to note because Michael himself has always credited kids in the black neighborhoods and I'm sure the Gary neighborhood he grew up in with creating such wonderful dances. Michael never forgot where he came from and understood the importance of such an environment in crafting and nurturing who he was and the artist he became. Michael, rest in peace. . .you deserve it.
Posted at 5:53AM on June 27th 2009 by Ann
I am still in shock. The lump in my throat has never left. I keep thinking that we will all wake up from this horrific nightmare in the morning and all will be well again. . . Michael lives! I was at work when I learned the news . . . at first several conflicting stories: he was dead, he was in a coma, he had committed suicide (all of this online). My first thought was that it was a joke, someone was telling a cruel lie that wasn't funny at all. But my coworkers kept saying he had passed (giving updates) and I went online to see for myself and was completely dazed by the news. I still does not seem real. I can't wait to wake up.
Posted at 5:45AM on June 27th 2009 by Ann
oh i'm so sad so saddddddd about his death. Micheal i love you and i will always do thank you for bringing us so much joy in life. Rest in peace
Posted at 4:09AM on June 27th 2009 by ceen
Michael Jackson...My Michael...you have left us. I'm 16 and I can't believe this, even 2 days after the news first hit me. For some reason, I just keep thinking that it's all just going to be a joke and you'll be moonwalking out of the hospital. [sigh] I just have to say what a man you are, Michael. What a legend you are. It hurts my heart to know that you left this world in so much pain. Rest in peace, King. After a life full of trials, you deserve to rest and put your mind and soul at peace once and for all. We love you, Michael, the one and only,,,
Posted at 3:19AM on June 27th 2009 by D.ee
I was at work when i heard the news. It is still so surreal that he's gone. I am so deeply saddened and my condolences extends to his close friends, family and fans as we all grieve his untimely passing. His music was and is still so inspiring, breathtaking and transcends not only music but race as well and is a tremendous influence in our world today. He was a legend, an icon. The KING OF POP! A few months ago i was up until 3am in the morning watching his videos on youtube. I have been listening to the thriller album for the last two months. He will be truly missed. Hopefully, everyone will remember him for not just his music but the love that he brought to the world and tried to share with us. The media at times ridiculed him for some of his actions of which i saw someone who was searching for peace and i hope he gets that in his final resting place. Love you Michael J. Jackson. Your music and its influence will love on forever. . Your family is in my prayers. Gob bless you!
Posted at 11:16PM on June 26th 2009 by Alicia Ellis
Michael Jackon and the Jackson family contributed and forever transcended the music industry and the world. He touched so many and meant alot to all of us. We grew up and under MJ. I remember studying and trying to perfect his moves. You always looked forward to seeing Michael Jackson perform. Any new video, tour, or appearance was electricfying. His spirit will always hold a special place in our hearts. Lets not forget the KING OF POP, Humanitarian, and an inspiritional human being who touched many from all races. Remember him for his greatness. The Jacksons are in our prayers while MJ blesses the heavenly gates. R.I.P.
Posted at 10:55PM on June 26th 2009 by Patrina
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE JUNE 26, 2009 Below is the official statement of Dr. Juanita Bynum II: Dr. Juanita Bynum II is shocked and saddened about the death of Michael Jackson "After I got through screaming, hollering, and crying - the only thing going through my mind was that my childhood was just erased. There are no words to express how I feel. We are the same age. We were the same age. This is unbelievable. Some of the most devastating news I have ever heard. I am weak. My prayers go out to the entire Jackson Family and all those connected with them. Especially to Janet. My father’s death devastated me, but this just took me down." Dr. Juanita Bynum II # # #
Posted at 10:16PM on June 26th 2009 by Dr. Juanita Bynum II