Joe Jackson, father of the late pop star Michael Jackson, arrives at the 9th Annual BET Awards on Sunday, June 28, 2009, in Los Angeles.
(Matt Sayles/AP Photo)Janet Jackson Takes Stage for BET Finale
Janet Jackson takes the stage for an emotional BET finale and thanks fans for their love
Janet Jackson has taken the stage at the BET Awards to speak on behalf of her grieving family and thank fans for their love and support.
It was Janet Jackson's first public appearance since her brother died last Thursday. With a deep sadness on her face, she strolled to the microphone and began to speak.
Related
She said: "My entire family wanted to be here tonight, but it was just too painful, so they elected me to be here."
She noted that the King of Pop was an icon to all in attendance, but that to the Jacksons, "he was family."
After her brief comments, Stevie Wonder, Ne-Yo and Jamie Foxx took the stage and sang a poignant "I'll Be There" by the Jackson 5.
Copyright 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
- 1
Read 21 Comments and Post Your Own
Comment & Contribute
Do you have more information about this topic? If so, please click here to contact the editors of ABC News.
Watch Video
Slideshows
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
External links are provided for reference purposes. ABC News is not responsible for the content of external Internet sites. Copyright © 2009 ABC News Internet Ventures.
