Netflix is facing backlash on social media ahead of the release of its in-depth documentary about the Michael Jackson trial.
Jackson, one of the most famous and beloved figures in pop culture history, is being prosecuted in a new multi-Netflix documentary, “Michael Jackson: The Verdict,” which revisits the case and features many of the key figures who were in the courtroom, including jurors, witnesses, the accuser, the defense attorney, and more. Counting child sexual abuse cases in 2003.
The trial sparked a media firestorm and court proceedings that captivated the world and kept him at the center of headlines for months.
His acquittal on all charges only increased public interest, and his innocence remained in question.
Netflix’s new doc Michael Jackson: The Verdict revisits the case and features many of the key players who were in the courtroom, including jurors, witnesses, the accuser, and the defense attorney.
Fans of the star have taken to social media to criticize Netflix over the timing of the doc’s release, which comes just weeks after the release of his critically panned but highly profitable biopic.
“This is a shame for Netflix. All the other studios regret passing up a Michael movie that ended up being a huge success. So they’re going to make this in retaliation and try to make money off of it? What a joke,” said one angry fan.
A second person commented, “It has already been decided that Michael is innocent. If you want to seriously decide without watching this sensational outrage, please read the court records.”
“Wow, this man is still being exploited by people 17 years after his death,” added a third tweet.
Meanwhile, another added: “The media is still trying to convict a man who has been proven innocent so many times that it’s unspeakable… It’s just pathetic that they support this.”
The series is directed by Nick Green and executive produced by Fiona Stoughton, who said they felt it was the perfect time to revisit the trial and the questions it lingers on. They took the facts as they unfolded in court as a historical account.
“It’s been 20 years since Michael Jackson was acquitted, but the controversy continues,” the filmmakers said at the Netflix fan event TuDum. “With cameras not allowed in the courtroom, the public’s view of the facts at the time was filtered by commentators and presented in fragments. The time has come for a forensic review of the entire trial.”
“Anyone interested in the story of Michael Jackson will find this documentary provides a window into events that have been largely private, giving them an opportunity to feel closer to what happened.”
Meanwhile, earlier this month, four brothers who were once close friends of Mr Jackson claimed in a shocking report on 60 Minutes Australia that Mr Jackson subjected them to sickening child sexual abuse behind closed doors.
