MJ On Film Discussing Drug Taking

MJ In Video From Rehearsal

U.K.'s THE SUN has released what it's calling "shocking footage" of MICHAEL JACKSON talking of his addiction to prescription drugs as well as additional video of rehearsals for his comeback tour. A two-and-a-half minute trailer for the JACKSON's film, "This Is It," shows him performing his famous Moonwalk dance and other trademark moves as he prepares for his 50-date residency at LONDON's O2.

JACKSON speaks with a lawyer interviewing him over a lawsuit involving his ex-manager DIETER WIESNER. WIESNER managed JACKSON from 1996-2003 and filed a £45M civil case, claiming fraud and breach of contract.

The video also marks JACKSON's only recorded admission of prescription drug-taking, writes THE SUN. "In the film, JACKSON is asked about his drugs dependency -- after claiming he was so high he did not remember signing a deal with WIESNER. The 'Thriller' star, who died in JUNE at 50 after a dose of powerful sedative, looks wide-eyed and spaced out as he tells how the drugs left him unable to know what he was doing."

In one exchange the lawyer asks him: "Were you under the influence of drugs or alcohol that impaired your ability to understand what you were doing?"

JACKSON replied: "It could have been medication, yes."

The lawyer said: "OK, what medications were you taking in about JANUARY of 2003?"

JACKSON replied: "It could have easily been pain medication because I had some serious injuries on tour."

Lawyer: "And so is it your testimony that you gave power of attorney to DIETER WIESNER and RONALD KONITZER when under the influence of prescription medication?"

JACKSON: "Could have been -- probably. Probably, yes." 

THE SUN's video can be viewed here.

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