Jacko wants UK Neverland
2009-06-08 22:25
London - Michael Jackson wants his Neverland ranch to be recreated in the UK.
The Thriller singer - who is due to start his 50-night residency at London's O2 arena on July 13 - has ordered AEG, the promoters of his forthcoming UK shows, to transform the British home he is renting into a replica of his former US estate.
Jackson reportedly wants a funfair and bowling alley installed in the grounds of the historic Foxbury Manor, Kent, as he is pining for the Californian home he was forced to sell.
"Michael is quite particular. He's missed living in Neverland since debts forced him to get rid of it four years ago," a source said.
"He thinks he can recreate a bit of its magic in Kent and concert bosses are happy to indulge him.
"He loves bowling, so has insisted an alley be created and he's never lost his love of funfairs, so has demanded one be built in the grounds."
Child-friendly mansion
Neverland - which Jackson lived in until 2005 - was housed on a 1092-hectare plot and had a zoo and cinema as well as a funfair.
The 50-year-old star is also keen to make the Kent mansion child-friendly as he is bringing his three children on tour with him.
"Michael will be bringing his kids with him throughout the run.
"Prince Michael, Paris Michael and Prince Michael II are all under 12 years old, so should really enjoy all the rides and amusements their father will provide for them," the source added.
In May, it was revealed Michael - who is rumoured to be battling skin cancer - would kick off his concert run on July 13, five days later than originally planned.
Shows scheduled to take place on July 10, 12 and 14 have been moved to the end of the residency in March 2010.