One year on, Jackson’s star power still shines brightly

Michael Jackson, from his days as part of The Jackson 5, poses for the camera in this undated handout photo.

AUDRA BURCH AND HOWARD COHEN
MIAMI: In the 365 days without Michael Joseph Jackson, the pop star’s legacy has come into sharper focus, his art, music, magic liberally extracted from his dizzying celebrity and troubled private life.

A year of craziness followed his death on June 25, 2009, including his doctor’s involuntary manslaughter trial, family feuds and the epic yet futile discussion about the paternity of his three children.

But Jackson’s name may never have been more powerful. The 13 Grammy-winning singer is still celebrated by his original fans and has been discovered by generations of new admirers.

The first anniversary of his death today will be marked by specials, concerts, museum exhibits, candlelight vigils, a memorial in London, even a Japanese lottery for the chance to spend the night with Jackson’s possessions in the Neverland Collection in Tokyo.