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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Rachael McMenemy

The piece of Michael Jackson graffiti art that is dividing Scousers

Scousers are divided over a Michael Jackson mural in the city in the wake of allegations made against the late singer.

The Smooth Criminal artwork appeared on the corner of Colquitt Street and Seel Street in 2018 and was inspired by Jackson's famous moonwalk.

On social media some people questioned whether the Paul Curtis art work should still be on display after allegations of sexual abuse were made against the King of Pop in the recent controversial documentary Leaving Neverland .

We asked ECHO readers what they thought should happen to the mural now in what proved to be a divisive issue.

'It should be removed'

People who supported removing the artwork supported the alleged victims and urged people to think about how they might feel in that position.

Others agreed, but added that they felt for the artist Paul Curtis because he created the piece months before the allegations surfaced.

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One said:"I feel bad for the artist as it's a great piece of work but in fairness if I were one of his victims I'd want it removed as it would be difficult to see him glorified after what he did.

Another wrote: "Sorry for Paul, but yes, I think Jackson is a criminal and can't be honoured by a graffiti, not anymore, not since we know..."

Others made comparisons to Jimmy Saville - stating he also had allegations against him but was never convicted.

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One person said: "Obviously take it down? Would we keep up a mural of Saville?"

Michael Jackson mural by artist Paul Curtis on Colquitt Street, Liverpool. (Colin Lane)

'Keep it - innocent until proven guilty'

Those in favour of keeping the mural argued Michael Jackson has never been convicted of a crime.

One said: Why would you remove a painting of an innocent man? So bored of these band wagons that people jump on when they want a bit of money


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Others suggested the art should be considered separate to the allegations because it is simply a great mural.

One person said: "It shouldn't be removed. period."

Another said:"Why would you get rid? It’s a great piece of art."

Someone else said: "Why?!! Its beautiful!!"

Comment from the artist

Artist Paul Curtis, who designed the mural said: "I haven't seen any online discussion regarding this mural, like many people, I avoid online arguments and discussions.

"I haven't seen the documentary either but I am aware of some of the content.

"It is an ongoing legal case so I won't publicly express my opinion for obvious reasons. I also feel that given the gravitas of the case, my opinion is not of importance. Regarding the mural, if the owners of the building want it removed, it can be done, I have absolutely no problem with that."

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The late singer's estate has since confirmed plans to sue the documentary makers, and his family condemned the film in a scathing statement, comparing it to a "public lynching".

The Thriller hitmaker was tried on child molestations charges in 2004-2005 - but he was acquitted on every count.

He died in 2009 aged 50.

Another wrote: "Leave it be. He was never convicted of anything and always denied the allegations against him."  
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