Katie Couric's Notebook: Michael Jackson

By: Katie Couric
Topics: Katie Couric's Notebook

The world was rocked by the news of Michael Jackson's sudden death yesterday. Perhaps because in this celebrity-obsessed world his unparalleled fame was matched by his enigmatic personality.

The boy who had a stage presence well beyond his years turned into a man who was strangely childlike. Who really knows what shaped him into the person he became? An abusive father? Fame that was much too much for his fragile sense of self?

His numerous plastic surgeries, spending sprees and allegations of child molestation transformed him into a freakish caricature. But we can all celebrate his irresistible music and extraordinary dance moves - the songs that for so many of us are touchstones for our lives.

As we mark his passing we can think of Michael Jackson in many ways. I prefer to remember him as a huge talent whose music still makes me smile and think and remember. Not the man in the mirror who could never completely change his ways.

That's a page from my notebook.

6 Comments Have Your Say
Email Story Send to a Friend
Share This Tell Your Friends
Tweet This Tweet This
More Share It

Add a Comment


by aglaiaolsen June 30, 2009 4:11 PM EDT: His music and dance moves gave many of us a sense of style, understanding and compassion for what we love and what moves our souls. Despite his abusive childhood, make overs, and the allegations of child molestation, Michael was human with a warm heart, kind spirit, and generous to the many children around the world. Michael Jackson will be greatly missed.; Reply to this comment


by June 28, 2009 6:35 PM EDT: No longer watching NBC news after Friday night. I was so appalled at the trash coverage after 5 minutes I switched to CBS to see the dignified coverage of Michael Jackson and Brilliant Interview of Quincy Jones by Katie. I'm so glad I changed the channel. I had to shut off the NBC Michael Jackson Special the night before as well. Unbelievable they could be so crude on the day he died. Katie, I admired the coverage from your team and I just want to congratulate you for treating the King of Pop { with dignity this week. And your interview was 1000x better than Brians, you kicked him to the curb. I know because I watched the NBC recording afterwards. I realized what a mistake I'm making watching NBC every night. I was so impressed with you news coverage. Bravo. And thank you !!!!!!!
My DVR is now recording CBS News permanently.; Reply to this comment


by Jameszina June 28, 2009 5:47 PM EDT: Michael Jackson is the true King. At age 50 he sold out 50 shows in London alone. Even in death he is still the King. I thank him for opening the doors for so many people. The music world will never be the same. His legacy lives on. America bow down to the KING OF POP. Rest in Peace MJ.
Jameszina Ellis; Reply to this comment


by Jameszina June 28, 2009 5:39 PM EDT: I GREW UP WITH Micheal Jackson. I introduced his music and dance to my children.I wanted them to know real music. When I heard about his death. I broke down and cried for hours, but when I heard the radio play Remember The Times I stood up and cried and danced and celebrated his life with my young son's. Rest in Peace KING MICHAEL.
GOD will recieve you in Heaven.

Jameszina Ellis; Reply to this comment


by casey_abbott June 28, 2009 11:20 AM EDT: Welcome to the human condition.; Reply to this comment


by rayz28-2009 June 26, 2009 7:13 PM EDT: I was inspired by Michael Jackson, and those of us who know great artists appreciate his talents and music. I told this phrase today at work and my colleagues said I should post this. ?A Marine Died, and opened the Gates of Heaven, so that An Angel could Escort a King." R.I.P. Michael, Farah, and Ed! Signed Raymond B. Camara; Reply to this comment