Obama Offers Condolences To Jackson Family

(AP Photo/Doug Pizac)

White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs told reporters this afternoon that President Obama sees Michael Jackson as "a spectacular performer, a music icon" who nonetheless had "aspects of his life [that] were sad and tragic."

CBS News White House correspondent Mark Knoller reports that Gibbs said Mr. Obama offered his condolences to the Jackson family and to fans who are mourning the pop star's death.

Gibbs said that the president relayed to him that "everybody remembers hearing his songs, watching -- watching him moon walk on television during Motown's 25th anniversary."

The president has not spoken on or issued a statement concerning Jackson's death.

Gibbs said he did not believe Mr. Obama ever met Jackson personally.

Brian Montopoli

Brian Montopoli is the national reporter and political analyst for CBSNews.com.

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