Michael Jackson plans O2 elephant ride

As if the circus surrounding Michael Jackson’s series of London comeback concerts planned for the O2 Arena wasn’t strange enough, the singer is reported to have demanded an elephant on which to make his entrance, as well as an assortment of panthers, monkeys and wild birds, all of which will contribute to a jungle theme to his shows.
 
According to the Daily Mirror, the 50-year-old king of pop has even requested 100 Masaii warriors for the series of 50 live gigs – an entourage that O2 Arena management are not believed to be keen on. “He hopes to make it the most spectacular gig ever,” an unnamed source told the paper. “For the jungle section, he wants to ride out on an African elephant with panthers led on gold chains. Parrots and other birds will fly behind him. If it goes to plan it will look incredible."
 
A spokesman for CAPS (the Captive Animals Protection society) has said that the plans threaten to spoil the appeal of the concerts for fans and PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) has also condemned the proposals, saying: "These exotic animals belong in Africa, not the O2 Arena among screaming fans, bright lights and stage explosions. Michael needs to learn to leave exotic animals alone."
 
 
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