Rev. Jesse Jackson Urges Suicidal Michael Jackson Fans to Live

I cannot believe that there are people out there who have decided to commit suicide because Michael Jackson is dead. His death is not the end of the world and he certainly won't be the last celebrity to pass away.

Rev. Jesse Jackson, amid reports that distraught M.J. fans have become suicidal in the aftermath of his sudden demise, is urging fans to "keep hope alive." "This is a time when hearts are heavy. There is great pain but great cause to celebrate Michael's life," he says. "It made Michael happy saying 'We Are the World.' Don't self destruct. We fall down sometimes, we get back up. That's the right thing to do. In Michael's name let's live together as brothers and sisters and not die apart as fools."

According to the U.K.'s Sky News and Gary Taylor, president and owner of the fansite MJJCommunity, at least 12 ardent fans have committed or attempted suicide in the wake of the King of Pop's passing. Apparently, Pavel Talalayev, a Russian Jackson impersonator who spent years and thousands of dollars on cosmetic surgery to look like his idol, was among the first to attempt to take his own life. The Barcelona Reporter is reporting an additional fan death in Tunisia.

If you know someone who is contemplating suicide or you are contemplating suicide, please consult a professional for assistance. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Posted in: Gary Taylor,Michael Jackson,Pavel Talalayev,Rev. Jesse Jackson,Suicide,Zealots