Jackson 'keen on Live 8'

2005-06-14 15:04

London - A leading British pop concert organiser said on Tuesday he would "consider" asking Michael Jackson to participate in the series of Live 8 concerts in the run-up to a summit of rich nations in Britain next month.

Jackson, cleared in California on Monday of child sex abuse charges, was said to be keen to join the line-up for the July 2 events, either in London or Philadelphia, the British Press Association reported on Tuesday.

Live 8 promoter Harvey Goldsmith, when asked on London's radio station Capital FM whether he would consider Jackson's participation if approached, said: "Obviously we'd consider it."

But he added: "Whether it's appropriate or not is another issue, whether he's in a fit state to work is another issue, whether he can work is another issue and whether he can work live is another issue."

Jackson would be most likely to appear at the Philadelphia concert, which will take place at the city's Museum of Art, the reports suggested.

His close friend Stevie Wonder, who was listed as a potential character witness, is on the bill.

The concerts, initiated by Irish Live-Aid star Bob Geldof, will take place a few days before the G8 summit that takes place from July 6-8. - Sapa-dpa

- SAPA