Nearly two decades after Michael Jackson’s death, his name is once again making headlines for reasons that have little to do with music. Four siblings — Edward, Dominic, Marie Porte and Aldo Cascio — have filed a federal lawsuit in Los Angeles against the singer’s estate. In the court document, they claim that Jackson drugged, raped and sexually abused them for more than ten years. According to their account, the alleged abuse began when they were just six and eight years old.
According to the filing submitted to the federal court in Los Angeles, the claimants describe Jackson as a “serial child sexual predator”. They allege that he maintained an abusive relationship with them for years. The Cascio siblings’ account echoes those of other alleged victims. According to the lawsuit, the artist used his enormous influence to gain their trust and isolate them from their family environment. They also claim he provided them with alcohol and other substances before the alleged abuse.
The claimants also point to several locations where the alleged assaults are said to have taken place. Among them is the famous Neverland property. They also mention private residences linked to people in the singer’s circle. The lawsuit cites the home of Elizabeth Taylor in Switzerland and Elton John’s house in the United Kingdom. The siblings are seeking $200 million in damages for the physical and psychological harm they say they suffered.
The case comes at a delicate moment for the legacy of the so-called “King of Pop”. The highly anticipated biopic Michael, centred on the singer’s life, is scheduled for release in April. The film is expected to revisit his career and key moments in his trajectory, including the creation of Thriller. However, this new lawsuit once again brings attention to the allegations that have surrounded Jackson for decades.
The response from the artist’s estate
On the other side, Michael Jackson’s estate — represented by lawyer Martin Singer — has described the lawsuit as a “desperate manoeuvre”. According to the legal team, the accusations are unfounded and form part of a strategy to obtain money from the artist’s legacy.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that the Cascio family had already reached an agreement with Jackson’s representatives in 2020 following the media impact of the documentary Leaving Neverland. At the time, a financial settlement was agreed to avoid a trial. Now, the claimants argue that the agreement was “illegal” and claim its real purpose was to buy their silence — an issue that could become central if the case proceeds in court.
Three Michael Jackson songs removed amid doubts over their authenticity.
Sigue toda la información de HIGHXTAR desde Facebook, Twitter o Instagram