Michael Jackson's awards appearance

Oct 30, 2006, 12:40 GMT

Michael Jackson is to make his first public appearance in Britain for nine years when he attends the World Music Awards in London next month.

The 48-year-old singer is to be honoured with the Diamond Award which is given to artists who sell more than 100 million albums during their career.

World Music Awards founder Melissa Corken said yesterday (29.10.06): "We are thrilled to be bringing the ceremony to London, the music capital of the world. The presence of Michael Jackson is very exciting for us."

Jackson has been residing in the Republic of Ireland with his three children, Prince Michael, Paris and Prince Michael II, for the past few months and has made very few official public appearances since he was acquitted of child molestation charges in June 2005.

The 'Bad' singer's last performance at an awards ceremony in Britain was at the 1996 BRIT Awards, when Pulp singer Jarvis Cocker leapt on stage during Jackson's performance and shook his butt at the star.

The 2006 World Music Awards will take place at Earls Court on November 15 and will be hosted by 'Mean Girls' actress Lindsay Lohan.

Beyoncé Knowles, Mary J. Blige, Katie Melua and Andrea Bocelli are all scheduled to perform.

The annual business awards select winners based on record sales. Previous recipients of the Diamond Award include Rod Stewart, Mariah Carey and Celine Dion.

(C) BANG Media International