In 2003, Michael Jackson — arguably the most famous and beloved figure in pop culture of all time — was charged with multiple counts of child molestation, setting off a media firestorm and courtroom proceedings that captivated millions. His acquittal on all counts only further stoked public interest in the larger-than-life celebrity at the center of the trial, interest that continues to persist long after Jackson’s death in 2009.
On June 3, Michael Jackson: The Verdict revisits the case that became one of the most closely watched legal sagas of all time. Featuring key individuals who were inside the courtroom, including jurors, eyewitnesses, and accusers and defenders alike, the three-part docuseries dissects the case against Jackson from the perspectives of both the prosecution and the defense.
The series is directed by Nick Green and executive produced by Fiona Stourton, who say it felt like the right time to revisit the trial and its lingering questions. They approached it as a historical account, presenting the facts as they unfolded in court.
“It has been 20 years since the trial of Michael Jackson in which he was found not guilty. Yet, to this day, controversy still rages,” the filmmakers tell Tudum. “No cameras were allowed in court, and so the public’s view of the facts at the time were filtered by commentators and presented piecemeal. It was time to take a forensic look at the trial as a whole.
“Anyone interested in the Michael Jackson story should feel this documentary gives them a window into what was largely a closed event and a chance to feel closer to what happened.”
Here’s everything to know about Michael Jackson: The Verdict.
The series features new interviews with participants involved in the trial, including jurors, as well as media figures who were inside the courtroom and observed the case unfold firsthand.
“The aim was to take the audience inside the proceedings and only speak to eyewitnesses who played a part in those events,” the filmmakers say.
Michael Jackson: The Verdict premieres on June 3.
Take a look at the trailer for the docuseries at the top of the page.
Michael Jackson: The Verdict is created by showrunner David Herman, who also executive produces alongside Fiona Stourton and James Goldston. Nick Green directs all three episodes, and the series is produced by Candle True Stories.
Check back for more updates on Michael Jackson: The Verdict, coming to Netflix June 3.
