The Jackson family's wrongful death lawsuit against AEG Live continued yesterday, as the director of Michael Jackson's comeback concert series, "This Is It," was called forth to testify. Kenny Ortega broke down in tears on the witness stand as he described the pop star's final days.
Ortega said that Jackson's behavior was "very, very troubling," and "I saw a Michael that frightened me."
The Jackson family's lawsuit alleges that AEG did not take Michael's frail health into consideration and pushed him too hard in preparation for "This Is It." The lawsuit also alleges the company hired Conrad Murray, the doctor who was convicted of manslaughter charges after overprescribing sleep aid proposal to the singer. AEG has denied hiring Murray and has also denied suggestions that Jackson was visibly unwell. Ortega's testimony argued strongly against the latter.
Ortega said that during at least four rehearsals, Jackson appeared to be under the influence of some sort of substance, and he claimed it happened after the performer had consulted with Murray. The description of a rehearsal six days prior to Jackson's death was especially moving. Ortega said the vocalist was visibly shivering and appeared lost. The director sent an e-mail to AEG that day describing Jackson as "a lost boy" and calling for help. The next day, Ortega met with Murray and AEG executive Randy Phillips. He claims Murray stated that Jackson should have been able to rehearse.
The Jackson family's case has been going on since April and is expected to wrap up at some point in July. Katherine Jackson is requesting up to $40 billion in damages.
