Michael Jackson’s Pepsi Video Released

The January 1984 Michael Jackson Pepsi commercial video was recently released to the public for the first time, and coming shortly after his death. During the filming of the advertisement, a smoke bomb misfired, and ignited with chemicals Michael had in his hair. Unfortunately, his hair caught fire, and for several seconds, his hair burned, and it appeared he did not realise what was happening. He still continued to dance on stage, and while he was proceeding towards the audience, those close to him pulled him to the ground to extinguish the fire. He was hospitalized with second decree burns. Pepsi reportedly settled with Michael for $1.5 million, all of which he donated to the hospital, where he was treated.

This must have been painful, and by no means should Michael be excused for his dependency on drugs. He obviously went overboard, but he should have been forced to get the help he needed, due to his unwillingness to do it himself. The accident must have been the catalyst that led him to start using strong pain killers due to the severe emotional trauma, and excruciating pain, that he suffered until the time of his death. He required several reconstructive surgeries, which he has complained over the years have caused him severe pain.

Not many persons have stood in his shoes, but given the lack of childhood that he has complained about, even while he was an adult, coupled with this accident, no telling how this could have affected him throughout the years, such as the pain, and most likely his ego. This incident was touching, and should have brought a better understanding of how broken he must have been. For the critics, it is alright to complain that you are without shoes, until you meet the man without feet.

Michael needed expert help to treat his addiction, and not be enabled with a continuous supply of painkillers. These enablers never cared about him. They only wanted to use him for what they could get from him. Where were his real friends and family when he needed them? Help did not have to be voluntary. In this case, it was obvious it had to be forced. It’s too late now, he is gone too soon, and what a pity that no one stepped in to give Michael the help he really needed. “Tough love”