Michael Jackson Religious Portrait At Centre Of Ownership Wrangle

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"American Jesus" (2009) Image courtesy of David LaChappelle Studio

A portrait of Michael Jackson reclaimed by the artist after the King of Pop's death in 2009 is at the centre of an ownership war - because the late pop star's longtime friend and dermatologist insists the piece is rightfully his. Dr. Arnold Klein and photographer/filmmaker David LaChappelle, who created the religious-themed work which depicts Jackson as Jesus Christ, have been bickering over the painting-like photo for more than a year, but the row only recently came to light when officials at the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office opted not to bring criminal charges against the artist, according to the Los Angeles Times. [link]