ITV is promising exclusive unseen footage of Michael Jackson from the private collection of the singer’s friend Uri Geller in a forthcoming documentary, “My Friend Michael Jackson: Uri’s Story,” its production and distribution division said Friday.
The documentary will show Jackson on a midnight shopping spree at London department store Harrods and visiting the grounds of Exeter soccer club, as well as footage from Geller’s private archive showing the singer acting as best man at Geller’s wedding.
It will also feature interviews with Geller offering his frank recollections of the star and some of the controversies that surrounded him.
“This is the real Michael Jackson, the way that just a handful of friends were privileged to see him — relaxed, witty, loving, smart, sincere and genuine,” said Geller. “This film gives audiences around the world the opportunity to experience the reality of life with Michael.”
The documentary will be distributed by ITV Global Entertainment.
Meanwhile, Last week AEG Entertainment leaked rehearsal footage of Michael Jackson’s “This is It” tour, and now Sony Pictures is working on a deal with the entertainment company to use the footage in a feature film.
Sony Pictures is negotiating with AEG Entertainment to obtain the rights to 80 hours of rehearsal footage film for Jackson’s London tour, Variety reports.
‘High School Musical’ director Kenny Ortega shot the rehearsal footage, and is expected to direct the film which will include three videos along with an alternative version of “Thriller.”
According to the trade paper, AEG is also selling the rights to the August 29 tribute concert. Justin Timberlake, Janet Jackson, and other stars are slated to perform the songs that the King of Pop had planned to sing.