Michael Jackson's Real Victims
Sure, people worry about the fate of Michael Jackson and the youth he allegedly molested. But does anyone give a single thought to the poor Michael Jackson impersonators?
ABC has the story:
Impersonators of the "King of Pop" are closely watching the developments in Jackson's child molestation case, and they're worried about the ramifications if he is convicted. Business hasn't been booming since Jackson was arrested and charged with nine counts for allegedly victimizing a 12-year-old boy who spent time at his Neverland Ranch.
Some impersonators and lookalikes fear that a conviction would kill not only the singer's career, but theirs as well.
"I'm concerned, simply because I love what I do," said Kenny Wizz, a Las Vegas-based entertainer who has been impersonating Jackson for 20 years. "I worry that I won't be accepted in the same way. ... I wouldn't want to develop another character at this point. I love doing his character, and with everything that goes on, that I see in the media, it makes me nervous.
"I've gotten [comments such as] 'So, you like little boys,' things like that," Wizz said. "Some people figure, 'Hey, this is the closest I'll ever get to Michael Jackson, so I'll say this to you.' "
This isn't new to the impersonation business. They have a term for it -- the "Pee-Wee Herman Effect":
Jackson performers fear a conviction will condemn them to the same fate as Pee-Wee Herman impersonators after actor Paul Reubens was arrested for indecent exposure in a Florida movie theater in 1991.
Pee-Wee Herman appealed to children with his Saturday morning kids' show and a series of successful movies. But after his arrest, Pee-Wee's Playhouse took on a new, sinister meaning.
"When Pee-Wee Herman was arrested, business went down [for impersonators] 100 percent," Bartels said. "No one wanted any part of him."
I wonder whether these impersonators have any grounds to sue. Wouldn't that be a hoot: being sued by your impersonator for failing to hold up to yourself?
[Thanks to Sista CH for the tip.]
11:40:23 PM 
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