Michael Jackson Docuseries Alleging Sex Abuse to Debut at Sundance, Air on HBO
A new two-part docuseries exploring sexual abuse allegations against the late Michael Jackson is soon to make its debut.
Amos Pictures' "Leaving Neverland" will first premiere at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival on Jan. 25 before later airing on HBO, Deadline reports. The film centers on two adult men and their families who claim Jackson exploited them when the men were children. Both men, Wade Robson and James Safechuck, previously filed sex abuse lawsuits against Jackson or his estate that were ultimately dismissed.
The documentary has proven controversial already. A rep for the Jackson estate issued a statement calling it "yet another lurid production in an outrageous and pathetic attempt to exploit and cash in on Michael Jackson," according to Rolling Stone.
"This so-called 'documentary' is just another rehash of dated and discredited allegations," the statement also reads in part. "It's baffling why any credible filmmaker would involve himself with this project."
"Leaving Neverland" director, producer, and cinematographer Dan Reed, however, spoke out in support of the men and their stories.
"It took great courage for these two men to tell their stories and I have no question about their validity," he said in a statement (via Rolling Stone). "I believe anyone who watches this film will see and feel the emotional toll on the men and their families and will appreciate the strength it takes to confront long-held secrets."
Viewers will have a chance to decide for themselves how they feel about "Leaving Neverland," either at Sundance or when it airs on HBO.
[via: Deadline; Rolling Stone]