This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
A lot of media, a few dedicated fans, line entry to Forest Lawn Memorial Park
Listen
A lot of media, a few dedicated fans, line entry to Forest Lawn Memorial Park
A few fans and plenty of media trucks from around the world are camped outside the cemetery that’ll likely become Michael Jackson’s final resting place. KPCC’s Molly Peterson is in the San Fernando Valley.
Two camps line the entrance of Forest Lawn Memorial Park in the Hollywood Hills. To the left are TV news trucks with satellite dishes extended dozens of feet in the air.
News organizations have taped off areas for their reporters to deliver live updates. some I talked to plan to stay here all night. Producers and on-air talent flee the afternoon heat in air-conditioned vans. To the right are fans from Japan, Europe, Brazil, even California. An LA police officer directing traffic said as many as 70 fans were here earlier; the remaining few huddle under golf umbrellas.
A woman I spoke with from Amsterdam described her group as fan-friends of the pop star, people who’ve visited Neverland Ranch or met Michael Jackson or both. She dismissed the cameras and helicopters buzzing overhead as disgusting.
None of these fans have tickets to tomorrow’s memorial at Staples Center; all of them said they wanted to find a way to honor their idol.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
