Michael Jackson in 'fine health'

Dec 23, 2008, 11:15 GMT

Michael Jackson\'s representative has denied the singer is suffering from a potentially deadly genetic disease, insisting he is in "fine health". EPA/BETH A. KEISER

Michael Jackson's representative has denied the singer is suffering from a potentially deadly genetic disease, insisting he is in "fine health".

The 50-year-old singer's spokesman Dr. Tohme Tohme has dismissed claims made by biographer Ian Halperin that the 'Thriller' star is close to death because he is battling inherited condition A1AD (alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency) which leaves sufferers without a protein needed to protect the lungs.

Tohme insists Michael is in such good health he is even planning a world tour and several TV appearances for 2009.

The representative said: "The wild allegations concerning Mr. Jackson's health are a total fabrication. Concerning this author's allegations, we would hope in the future that legitimate media will not continue to be exploited by such an obvious attempt to promote this unauthorised 'biography'.

"Mr. Jackson is in fine health, and finalising negotiations with a major entertainment company and television network for both a world tour and a series of specials and appearances."

Meanwhile, it has been claimed Michael is renting a $38 million Los Angeles mansion for $100,000-a-month, and will soon move into the property in the exclusive Holmby Hills area.

The mansion boasts seven bedroom, 13 bathrooms, a screening room, a cellar, a guest house, swimming pool, garden and a staggering 12 fireplaces.

Michael reportedly agreed the deal "several weeks ago", insisting on a confidentiality agreement from his estate agents.