Originally intended as a pilot to a full series, 'The Jackson Family' will air as a one-hour special next year on A and E.
- July 13, 2009
AceShowbiz -
Months before Michael Jackson was pronounced dead in June, A&E has commissioned a reality show based on the Jackson family. The shooting has finished and a one-hour "backdoor pilot" tentatively titled "The Jackson Family" came as a result.
According to THR, it follows Jackie Jackson, Tito Jackson, Jermaine Jackson, Marlon Jackson and Randy Jackson in their bid to prepare for a new album and Jackson Five reunion tour. Michael's name, however, is not mentioned. A&E is looking forward to air it as a one-hour special next year and will "wait and see" whether it has the potential to be a series.
Since it was shot before the tragedy struck, events captured on the camera are bound to be edited. Thus, the network is still in limbo on what to do so that it will correspond to the current situation.
"We have started discussing internally and with the family but have not yet decided what direction to take with the show," said A&E executives in a statement. "We are respecting the family's wishes right now, and at the appropriate time we will all decide what direction this program to take, so stay tuned."
