Michael Jackson fans must have thought all their Christmases had come at once when it was announced the king of pop was to auction off the contents of his California home.
Now, ahead of the April 21 sale at the Beverly Hilton, memorabilia from his Neverland ranch has gone on display at New York's Hard Rock Café. The lots include many highly personal items from the singer's heyday, including the black fedora he wore when debuting his now legendary 'moonwalk' routine.
Over 2,000 artefacts will go under the hammer unless Michael prevents the auction through legal action. The Thriller singer apparently co-operated initially with the Hollywood auctioneers behind the sale, but has since had a change of heart.
If the auction goes ahead another item likely to tickle the interest of fans is the rhinestone jacket which the now reclusive artist wore during his 'Victory' tour. The glittering affair, with its epaulettes and sash, is expected to raise $15-20,000.
Also going under the hammer are the singer's signature faux jewel-encrusted gloves, the massive gates from Neverland and a 1991 piece of artwork by actor Macaulay Culkin.
Other intriguing lots are an oil painting of the singer in which he is depicted as a king, and a golf cart airbrushed with an image of him as Peter Pan.
Photo: Getty Images
Photo: PA
