Was Michael Jackson the unknowing victim of a greedy, negligent physician who held the pop star’s life in his hands? Or a conflicted drug addict, so fearful of failure and desperate for sleep that he injected himself with a lethal amount of propofol without his doctor’s knowledge? Those are the two pictures painted by the prosecution and defense, respectively, as Conrad Murray's six-week trial nears its end.

In their closing arguments yesterday, the prosecution downplayed Jackson's iconic status and leaned more heavily on his role as a loving father, looking forward to sharing a triumphant comeback with his three children.

By contrast, Murray’s defense team suggested that if not for Jackson’s high profile there would have been no trial. They’ve worked hard to characterize Murray as a caring, competent physician who had his patient’s best interests at heart, and to convince the jury – and the world – that he’s blameless in Jackson’s death.

The fact that Jackson died of an overdose of the powerful anesthetic, which should only be administered in a hospital setting, is undisputed. Was his death the result of gross negligence on Murray’s part, as the prosecution contends? The jury begins deliberations today, and it remains to be seen which story they find more convincing.

WEIGH IN:

How will Michael Jackson fans react when the verdict comes down? Have you been following the trial? Which version of the singer’s death do you believe?

Guests:

Shirley Jahad, KPCC Reporter

Mark Geragos, attorney with Geragos & Geragos. Defended many high profile clients including Michael Jackson himself during his 2005 molestation trial.

Laurie Levenson, Professor of Law at Loyola Law School in Los Angeles