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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Entertainment

Peter Andre defends Michael Jackson ahead of Leaving Neverland abuse documentary

Peter Andre has taken a stand against abuse accusations made against Michael Jackson in upcoming documentary Leaving Neverland.

The two-part special features interviews with Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who have accused the musician of sexually abusing them as children.

Andre has spoken out about the late singer in a bid to remind viewers that Jackson was acquitted of all sexual abuse claims in 2005.

Writing in his new! Magazine column, Andre said: “There's a new Michael Jackson documentary on this week and it has caused a lot of controversy about sexual abuse.

Defended: Peter Andre backed the star ahead of Leaving Neverland (AP)

"First and foremost what I will say is we have to rely on the justice system and we mustn't forget that he was acquitted of not just one, but all child molestation charges during his trial in 2005."

The Mysterious Girl singer added that he would not abandon Jackson’s music and encouraged others to keep an open-mind.

He added: “You can't just stop listening to an artist's music due to accusations alone.

Moving forward: Peter Andre encouraged everyone to have faith in the law (Getty Images)

"And let's not forget some of his songs weren't even written by him.”

Earlier this week, Good Morning Britain presenter Piers Morgan revealed tapes from an interview he did with Jackson in 1999.

The Thriller star told how children gave him “inspiration” and that without them he “wouldn’t care to live.”

Jackson spoke on rumours he harmed children, Princess Diana, his relationship with the press and more

Speaking about the abuse scandal at the time, Jackson said: “Every song I write, every dance, everything I do. They try to use it against me. It’s so unfair and I’m very upset about it.”

Jackson went on to add that the press are “so hard on him” and that he always tries to “do good.”

The Jackson estate has condemned the four-hour film as "an outrageous and pathetic attempt to exploit and cash in" on the superstar.

Leaving Neverland is on Channel 4, tonight and tomorrow at 9pm

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