When Michael Jackson died on June 25, 2009, he was on the verge of making a comeback.
His “This Is It” concert tour was supposed to return him to the limelight. But days before opening night, the King of Pop died from an overdose of the powerful anesthetic propofol, which was administered at his home by Dr. Conrad Murray.
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Murray, Jackson’s personal physician, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter for his role in the star’s death. He was sentenced to four years in prison and released in October 2013, after serving less than two years.
Though the King of Pop has been dead now for exactly five years, his memory lives and his estate continues to rake in big bucks.
Here are five ways he continues to be remembered:
1. In digital projection
Jackson’s hologram shocked and aww-ed viewers by moondancing at the 2014 Billboard Music Awards.
While many decried his virtual appearance as tacky, ABC saw a 13-year ratings high for the event.
2. In music
“XSCAPE,” an album comprised of eight of Jackson’s previously unreleased tracks, was released May 13. It was his second posthumous album, following “Michael,” and moved more than 800,000 units.
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3. In film
“This is It” — a documentary about the final, ultimately unfulfilled concert tour of the “Thriller” singer — was released months after Jackson’s death. It grossed more than $70 million dollars worldwide.
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4. In the courtroom
Jackson’s estate has been in court multiple times since the star’s passing, most recently there was a lawsuit challenging the authenticity of his vocals on “Breaking News,” “Monster” and “Keep Your Head Up” — all three songs were released posthumously.
5. In the Pitman High School gym/auditorium
Jackson’s legacy endures not only in media, but also in the hearts of hearts and — perhaps more importantly — feet of his fans.
The best example of this might be the high school talent competition in Turlock, Calif. that saw a student flawlessly re-enact the Moonwalk from “Billie Jean.”