March 27, 2007 12:27

Michael Jackson to build robot replica in Las Vegas?

Controversial king of pop considers club residency

Photo Gallery: Michael Jackson
Photo: Pa Photos

Michael Jackson has plans for a 50-foot robotic replica of himself to be sited in the Nevada desert just outside Las Vegas.

The plans are a part of a promotional assault on the city should the singer land a semi-permanent show there, according to the New York Daily News.

Mike Luckman, of media consultants Luckman Van Pier, said: "It would be in the desert sands. Laser beams would shoot out of it so it would be the first thing people flying in would see. Neon is wonderful, but it's old school."

The robot was designed by Andre Van Pier, who has also produced a sketched stage set of a gargantuan video game with human cyborgs controlled by the audience. Commenting on the designs, Luckman said: "Michael's looked at the sketches and likes them."

Jackson has reportedly bought a house in the gamblers’ paradise, and met with various hotel owners about a residency show at a club or hotel similar to that performed by Celine Dion.

Howeever, the star's main focus is on his next album that is currenltly being produced in Las Vegas with Rodney Jerkins, will.i.am and Neffu. Some tracks apparently featuring him rapping. It would be his first LP since 2001's 'Invincible'.

Jackson’s PA Raymone Bain said: "He hasn't made up his mind about whether a Vegas show is on the cards for him. He's been in the studio since November working on his music. He's been presented with various proposals. A Vegas show isn't a priority.”