Barack Obama: Some aspects of Michael Jackson's life were 'sad and tragic'

White House press secretary Robert Gibbs said President Barack Obama saw pop star Michael Jackson as a spectacular performer and music icon.

Gibbs also said at Friday's press conference that Obama believed some aspects of Jackson's life were sad and tragic and offered his condolences to the musician's family.

Gibbs said Friday at a press conference that Obama sends his condolences to the late singer's family and fans.

The White House did not issue a official statement following Jackson's death on Thursday after he suffered cardiac arrest and went into a comma.

Gibbs did not mention the death of Jackson until asked about him at Friday's regular White House briefing.

Click here for the full coverage of Michael Jackson's tragic death.

Check out cute photos of a younger Michael Jackson when he was in The Jackson 5