Fans of Michael Jackson hold up banners and flowers to commemorate him in Beijing, China, Friday, June 26 , 2009. Michael Jackson was due to make his triumphant return to the stage in London next month _ but instead his sudden death has left millions of fans feeling they've lost a lifelong friend. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan) Ng Han Guan /
Leaders, superstars, fans mourn King of Pop
By GREGORY KATZ Associated Press
A spokeswoman for AEG Live — the promoters for the London concerts — declined to say how ticket refunds would be handled. She spoke on condition of anonymity, saying she was not authorized to speak to the media.
There were poignant memories of his final public appearance when he came to London for a March news conference to announce his "This is it" concerts, which he said would mark his farewell to the London stage. A candlelight vigil at London's Trafalgar Square was planned to honor the singer.
Former South African President Nelson Mandela issued a message through his foundation saying Jackson's loss would be felt worldwide.
Jackson sang at a birthday concert for Mandela in 1998. In 1999, according to local media reports at the time, he lunched with Mandela at a small gathering at which the South African anti-apartheid leader celebrated both his 81st birthday and his and wife Graca Machel's first wedding anniversary.
The Nelson Mandela Children's Fund, UNESCO and the Red Cross were given proceeds from a huge benefit concert in Germany in 1999 that featured Jackson and other international stars.
Former Beatle Paul McCartney, who recorded with Jackson before they had a falling out over ownership of the Beatles catalogue, said his prayers went to Jackson's family and fans.
"It's so sad and shocking," he said. "I feel privileged to have hung out and worked with Michael. He was a massively talented boy-man with a gentle soul. His music will be remembered forever and my memories of our time together will be happy ones."
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