Paris Jackson Appreciates Sky Arts’ Decision To Cancel Michael Jackson ‘Urban Myths’ Episode After Backlash

An upcoming episode of the comedy series “Urban Myths” featuring the late Michael Jackson recently caused a controversy due to its casting choices. Avid fans of the king of pop even petitioned to boycott the made-for-television feature, while Jackson’s daughter Paris and nephew Taj expressed their disappointment over the show’s controversial casting.

Following the major backlash, British network Sky Arts decided to cancel the controversial “Urban Myths” episode that would have focused on Michael’s alleged road trip with Elizabeth Taylor and Marlon Brando in the wake of the Sept. 11 attacks in 2001.

According to Just Jared, the controversy started when a white actor was chosen to play Michael’s role in the said episode. MJ fans were quick to express their disgust on social media over the “Urban Myths” casting, but it was Paris and Taj’s tweets that highlighted the issue. In a series of tweets, Paris expressed her dismay by saying the portrayal was “shameful and insulting.” Taj, on other hand, said their family was disrespected.

Fortunately, Sky Arts’ move to cancel the episode was appreciated by Michael’s daughter Paris. Even though she was surprised by the network’s decision, the 18-year-old daughter of the king of pop posted on Twitter that she appreciated the fact that their family’s feelings were taken into consideration by the network.

Taj, on the other hand, expressed his gratitude to all the fans for their unwavering support, ABC News noted.

Meanwhile, “Urban Myths,” a comedy series that depicts the true-ish retelling of pop culture tales about celebrities, does not have a scheduled air date for the U.S. audience.

In other related reports, Rolling Stone revealed a Michael Jackson impersonator will portray the role of the late “Thriller” hitmaker in a Lifetime biopic. As per the publication, the announcement from the network came on the same day the “Urban Myths” episode was cancelled. Furthermore, the biopic was tentatively titled “Searching for Neverland” and will star self-proclaimed “world’s greatest Michael Jackson impersonator” Navi. It will reportedly depict Michael’s final years based on the views of his two personal bodyguards, Javon Beard and Bill Whitfield.

For a sneak peak of Navi’s performance, check out the video below. To share your thoughts on the “Urban Myths” cancellation, please sound off in the comments.