Documentary series on Michael Jackson's 2005 trial sparks divide between fans and critics
The new documentary series "Michael Jackson: The Verdict" reveals previously little-known details from the singer's 2005 trial, but has drawn a very low audience rating while critics praise it.
The documentary series "Michael Jackson: The Verdict" focuses on the pop star's 2005 trial on child sexual abuse charges. Since cameras were banned from the courtroom, the filmmakers relied on archival footage, eyewitness accounts, and interviews with jurors and lawyers who took part in the proceedings, offering a fresh look at events once known only through media coverage.
A trial turned spectacle
The series shows how a high-profile American trial became a media event, with hundreds of journalists and fans gathering outside the courthouse while television channels tracked every detail. It highlights the role lawyers play in persuading juries and reminds viewers that an acquittal does not mean proven innocence — only that guilt was not proven beyond reasonable doubt.
A divided reception
Within its first five days, the series drew 17.8 million views and topped streaming charts. Yet its audience score stands at just 8%, as many Jackson fans consider it biased toward the prosecution and criticize its use of emotional editing. Critics, by contrast, rated the series at 80%, praising its detailed reconstruction of the 2005 trial and its handling of legal and media aspects.
New revelations
The series brings up several lesser-known episodes, including journalist Martin Bashir's account of learning Jackson shared a bed with children, and a 2003 police raid on Neverland Ranch during which Jackson's whereabouts were unknown. It also features testimony from former press representative Vincent Amen and describes efforts by Jackson's lawyer to discredit the accusing family. The series revisits the 1993 case that ended in a settlement and quotes juror Melissa Herard, who described the jury's deliberations before the acquittal.
