Tributes to Michael Jackson remember pop star worldwide

Tributes tinged with grief and disbelief poured in last night for Michael Jackson.


Longtime pal Brooke Shields said, "My heart is overcome with sadness for the devastating loss of my true friend Michael. He was an extraordinary friend, artist and contributor to the world. I join his family and his fans in celebrating his incredible life and mourning his untimely passing."

Another buddy, psychic Uri Geller, said from London, "I am in shock like the rest of the world and I want this all to be a horror film and not really happening."


"I have known Michael for years and we were close. He was my best man when I renewed my marriage vows, I designed his latest CD jacket. . . . I will miss him very much."

Geller said he was taking Jackson's death especially hard because, "I know for a fact he was in good shape and getting ready for his big comeback."
In New York, the Rev. Al Sharpton called his friend of 35 years a "trailblazer," adding "to say he was an icon would only give the young people of Harlem a fraction of what he was."

He praised Jackson for learning "how to create even beyond his own shortcomings. He knew he had shortcomings but he knew how to build his strengths."

Sharpton said a tribute to Jackson would be held at the famed Apollo.

"I can't stop crying over the sad news. . . . I have always admired Michael Jackson," pop star Madonna told People magazine. "The world has lost one of the greats, but his music will live on forever! My heart goes out to his three children and other members of his family. . . . God bless."