Michael Jackson documentary reveals 'graphic details of his sex abuse'

Critics have been left feeling “sick” after hearing by the “disturbing” allegations of sexual abuse made against Michael Jackson in the new documentary, Leaving Neverland.

The new four-hour documentary from director Dan Reed – which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival – features allegations from Wade Robson and James Safechuck that Michael sexually abused them as children.

Wade alleges he was sexually abused by the late King of Pop from the age of seven until 14, while James- who previously testified on Jackson’s behalf when he was accused of sexual abuse in 1993 – claims he was a victim from the age of 10 until he hit puberty.

Both men insisted they have not profited money from the film but just want to protect others from going through similar experiences.

According to the Los Angeles Times, Wade told the audience: “We can’t change what happened to us. We can’t do anything about stopping Michael. He’s dead. That’s gone. What happened happened. The feeling is, ‘What can we do now?’ Hopefully it helps other survivors feel less isolated…. One of my greatest hopes is raising awareness for parents, teachers, business leaders to help prevent this from happening.”

While Michael’s fans have hit out at the allegations in the documentary and at Wade, who also testified for Michael in 1993 and again in 2005.

Hours after the documentary premiered, Michael’s estate lashed out at men’s claims, calling them “perjurers” and “admitted liars”.

The statement said: “‘Leaving Neverland’ isn’t a documentary, it is the kind of tabloid character assassination Michael Jackson endured in life, and now in death. The film takes uncorroborated allegations that supposedly happened 20 years ago and treats them as fact.

“These claims were the basis of lawsuits filed by these two admitted liars which were ultimately dismissed by a judge. The two accusers testified under oath that these events never occurred. They have provided no independent evidence and absolutely no proof in support of their accusations, which means the entire film hinges solely on the word of two perjurers.

“We are extremely sympathetic to any legitimate victim of child abuse. This film, however, does those victims a disservice. Because despite all the disingenuous denials made that this is not about money, it has always been about money – millions of dollars – dating back to 2013 when both Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who share the same law firm, launched their unsuccessful claims against Michael’s Estate.

“Now that Michael is no longer here to defend himself, Robson, Safechuck and their lawyers continue their efforts to achieve notoriety and a payday by smearing him with the same allegations a jury found him innocent of when he was alive.”

If you or someone you know is suffering from sexual or domestic abuse, don’t suffer in silence, call 1800 RESPECT any time of day or night.

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