That really must be it for Michael Jackson. His pointless appearance at a pointless awards ceremony this week was embarrassing even by his low standards.
To recap - Jackson is in London to attend the World Music Awards, given to recording artists and based not on artistic merit but on how many records have been shifted. The organisers say he will perform Thriller. This will be his first UK performance for nine years.
Jackson turns up late and speaks to reporters on the red carpet in such a low mumble that pens remain poised on pads. What is audible is him saying he was not performing - it was a "misunderstanding".
He gets his Diamond award from an adoring Beyoncé for selling more than 100m albums in his career. He says: "I dedicate this to the so many that have loved me and stayed by me throughout these years in the entertainment business.
"While I cannot meet all of them I would like to thank my wonderful children, Paris, Prince and Blanket [his bizarre pet name for his second son Michael - the one he dangled off the hotel balcony] for their unconditional love and support and my mother and my father, my brothers and sisters, my entire family for their love and support."
Somebody else - Chris Brown - performs Thriller.
At the end of the shambolic show, Jackson is persuaded to sing We Are The World. After four lines his voice fades out. "I love you, I love you," he tells the audience. Cue booing and Jackson shuffles off.
The biggest losers were the people who had paid upwards of £70 for a ticket to see the show. Among the few people to emerge with any credit was Madonna who chose not to turn up for her meaningless award.
Jackson of course is too easy a target for reasons as long as your arm. If Jackson wants his fans to have good memories of his talent then he really does need to spend more time at home - and away from the public glare.
