DINH DOONG

In recent revelations, comedian Mo’Nique has criticized Oprah Winfrey and Sean “Diddy” Combs, linking them to a supposed scheme against Michael Jackson. According to Mo’Nique, Oprah’s controversial interview with Jackson’s accusers in the 2019 HBO documentary *Leaving Neverland* was particularly suspect.

Mo’Nique argues that Oprah acted unethically by granting a platform to Jackson’s accusers years after his death, especially considering that the allegations were never substantiated in court. Mo’Nique and others claim that Oprah betrayed Jackson, despite his past role in boosting her career with an exclusive 1993 interview. That interview, which took place at Jackson’s Neverland Ranch, was a defining moment for Oprah, drawing 60 million viewers and greatly expanding her influence.

The accusations against Oprah go further, with Jackson’s estate and supporters questioning her motives. They contend that *Leaving Neverland* was one-sided and riddled with inconsistencies. Jackson’s defenders argue that the accusers, Wade Robson and James Safechuck, provided unsubstantiated claims and altered details to build a case against Jackson posthumously.

For instance, Michael Jackson’s biographer Mike Smallcombe revealed inaccuracies, like Safechuck’s claim that abuse took place at a Neverland train station that hadn’t yet been built during the stated timeframe. The Jackson estate has also highlighted these inaccuracies in court, attempting to counter Robson and Safechuck’s claims, which are now entangled in litigation as they pursue large sums from Jackson’s estate.

The criticisms extend to Oprah’s alleged double standards. Critics highlight Oprah’s friendship with figures like Harvey Weinstein, who has faced numerous abuse allegations.

Many noted that Oprah publicly supported *Leaving Neverland* yet remained silent about Weinstein’s similar accusations. Mo’Nique and other critics argue that Oprah has consistently turned a blind eye to accusations involving Weinstein, even as she condemned Jackson without presenting a balanced view of the facts.

Further suspicions arise around Diddy’s involvement. Some claim that Diddy’s security personnel, who had previously worked for Jackson, may have had an insider view during Jackson’s final days.

A key figure, Fahim Muhammad, reportedly served as Jackson’s head of security during Jackson’s last days and was one of the first on the scene after Jackson’s passing. This connection between Diddy and Jackson’s inner circle has prompted speculation, with critics alleging that those close to Jackson may have played a role in manipulating public opinion or capitalizing on Jackson’s troubles for their own benefit.

The discussion surrounding Jackson’s legacy has only intensified as one of his former accusers recently demanded over $200 million from the Jackson estate, threatening to release alleged “damaging information.”

Jackson’s supporters argue that such actions are emboldened by platforms like Oprah’s, which gave credibility to questionable claims. Fans and supporters note that during Jackson’s lifetime, he endured extensive legal scrutiny, including a decade-long FBI investigation, yet no conclusive evidence of wrongdoing emerged.

Celebrities who knew Jackson, such as Corey Feldman, Macaulay Culkin, and Aaron Carter, have publicly defended him, suggesting that their experiences with Jackson don’t align with the allegations. Despite the support, Oprah and *Leaving Neverland* director Dan Reed maintain that the documentary aimed to reveal broader issues of abuse within the industry.

The ongoing scrutiny has opened a broader debate about ethics in media and celebrity, with Oprah facing significant backlash. Mo’Nique and others argue that Oprah’s treatment of Jackson contrasts sharply with her silence around powerful figures like Weinstein. To many, the *Leaving Neverland* documentary represents not only an attack on Jackson’s character but also a wider commentary on the power dynamics that influence public narratives.