It’s been eight years since the tragic death of the undisputed King of Pop. But while Michael Jackson’s legacy remains controversial, it also remains enduring. To that end, the persona behind “Thriller,” one of the most acclaimed and widely-known music videos in history is serving as the inspiration for another future Halloween staple. This year, CBS will team up with the late singer’s estate to create an animated Halloween special in honor of the legend pop-singer.
On Halloween night, millenials Vincent (Lucas Till) and Victoria (Kiersey Clemons) find themselves meeting at the mysterious This Place Hotel ( a reference to a Jackson song of the same name) at 777 Jackson Place. With Ichabod the Dog, the pair embark on a magical adventure of self-discovery through the Hotel, culminating in a dance sequence finale starring an animated Michael Jackson. The hour-long special will feature a multitude of Michael’s most memorable tunes, with production headed by two co-executors of his estate, John Branca and John McClain. Apart from Till and Clemons, the confirmed vocal cast so far includes actors Christine Baranski, George Eads, Brad Garrett, Lucy Liu, Jim Parsons, and the legendary Alan Cumming. The special was conceptualized and will be produced by Optimum Productions, and animated by Hammerhead studio. Mark A.Z. Dippé is set to direct and Daniel Chuba will serve as producer.
The Halloween special is another title in the ever-growing lineup of Michael Jackson-inspired specials honoring the singer since his untimely death from a fatal drug interaction on June 25, 2009. Jackson was known for his eclectic style in music, dance, and fashion, as well as his powerful vocals, highly publicized personal life, controversies surrounding his personal life, and music videos that incited destruction of racial barriers. He is considered one of the most commercially successful musical artists in history, and a global phenomenon for well over four decades.
The Michael Jackson Halloween Special is set to air this fall on CBS.
