June 14, 2005
Michael Jackson
Not that the world needs another "blog," or even a FLOG, pontificating on the Michael Jackson verdict. But here are my two thoughts:
1. I suppose I am reluctantly glad about the verdict because it proves that it is still not entirely a slam dunk in this country to convict a person of a crime merely by the prosecutorial strategy of "Hey jury! This guy's pretty weird, am I right?" Being a strange dude should not be a crime, and I'm happy with that principle even if it means letting Michael Jackson off for a lot of sick shit. In a land where he can be considered innocent, we are all still free.
2. On the other hand, I was hoping for a guilty verdict just to spare us this kind of nonsense:
At this point, anyone still a Michael Jackson fanatic ought to be rounded up and pumped full of lithium, and "undying love of Michael Jackson" should be added to the symptoms list of many disorders in the DSM-IV. Apparently the cops outside the courthouse were instructed to watch for suicidal behavior in the event of a guilty verdict. Not to stigmatize anyone, but I think he might be acting as a magnet for a whole lot of people in need of help, much like a suction cup pulling venom from a snake bite. Our mental health community needs to take advantage of this opportunity.
Quick! Before they go home!
Posted by FLOG at June 14, 2005 2:23 AMI didn't follow the trial but Triumph made a trip down to the courthouse for a Late Night segment that aired last Thursday. Having spent time among Star Wars and Goonies fanatics in recent weeks, I think I can safely say these unapologetic MJ devotees each need some sort of intervention. Who camps outside of a courthouse to cheer on an accused pedophile? They make people that dress up like characters from an '80s kids flick look normal in comparision. I wonder if Gary Glitter received a similar outpouring of support when he went on trail.
Posted by: Brandon at June 14, 2005 4:41 PMThat Triumph clip ranks among the best -- almost as good as the one outside the line for Star Wars.
I agree with you on the MJ verdict, FLOG. But I think your wish to avoid nonsense was a futile one. Whether tears of joy or tears of loss, both would be annoying.
But anyway, now there's that girl in Aruba. The news hole MUST be filled. Feed Seymour, feed me naaaoooww! (in the voice of Raymond Lee).
Posted by: WWB at June 18, 2005 8:08 PM