June 10, 2009 23:48

Michael Jackson's London O2 Arena shows face lawsuit

Promoter claims the King Of Pop must first perform on US soil

Photo Gallery: Michael Jackson
Photo: Pa Photos

A music promoter has filed a lawsuit to halt Michael Jackson's performances at the London 02 Arena this summer.

AllGood Entertainment claims that the King Of Pop must first perform in the US under a contract he signed with the New Jersey-based promoters before embarking on his 50-night stint at the 02 Arena, which is set to begin in July.

The company filed suit in federal court in New York and named as defendants AEG Live, with whom Jackson signed a contract for the London shows, as well as Jackson's production company and his manager Frank DiLeo, reports Reuters.

The suit alleges breach of contract, fraud and tortuous interference with a contract. It seeks at least $20 million in compensatory damages, and at least $20 million in punitive damages.

Meanwhile, Jackson criticised his London O2 Arena gig bookers, saying he thought he only signed up to play 10 shows - not the 50 he is scheduled for - at the venue, as previously reported.

--By our Los Angeles staff.
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