Michael Jackson to Join 'X Factor' in December

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Michael Jackson is set to make his first TV appearance in nearly four years this December. The pop king surprisingly chose ITV, the channel that broadcast his infamous child molestation interview with Martin Bashir, as the media.

Jakson will join British talent show X Factor, sitting with Sharon Osbourne, Simon Cowell, Dannii Minogue and Louis Walsh as judges. He in particular, will help contestants to choose materials and boost their vocal.

The huge deal was reportedly made by the show's exec Cowell for ITV. Friends said that Jackson agreed to take the offer for his fondness of British reality TV. A friend said, "It's no surprise that his first big public appearance will be in England. He knows he still has many loyal fans there."

The reality show has also invited several other artists back in August to appear on the new season that has begun since August 18 and will wrap up around December 15. Among those expected to make appearances are Elton John, Celine Dion, Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, Mariah Carey, Shayne Ward, Westlife and Season 3 winner Leona Lewis.

Jackson is working on a comeback album that has involved Ne-Yo, Akon and will.i.am in its production. A tour is being prepared to be launched in late 2008 and/or 2009.