LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Michael Jackson, the child star turned King of Pop who set the world dancing but whose musical genius was overshadowed by a bizarre lifestyle and sex scandals, died yesterday. He was 50. Jackson was pronounced dead at about 2.26 p.m. after arriving at a Los Angeles hospital in full cardiac arrest, said Fred Corral of the Los Angeles County Coroner’s office. The cause of death was not known and an autopsy would likely take place today. Jackson’s sudden death had been reported earlier by US media, which said he was taken ill at his home and rushed to the hospital by paramedics who found him not breathing when they arrived.

Known as the “King of Pop”, for hits that included “Thriller” and “Billie Jean”, Jackson’s dramatic, one-gloved stage presence and innovative dance moves were imitated by legions of fans around the world. He transformed music videos and his lifetime record sales tally is believed to be around 750 million, which, added to the 13 Grammy Awards he received, made him one of the most successful entertainers of all time. “Rarely has the world received a gift with the magnitude of artistry, talent, and vision as Michael Jackson,” said Neil Portnow, president and CEO of The Recording Academy. “He was a true musical icon whose star power carried him from childhood to worldwide acclaim.”

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