Uri Geller Provides Footage for New Michael Jackson Doc

LONDON: My Friend Michael Jackson: Uri’s Story, a new documentary from ITV Studios, features previously unseen home-video footage of the music icon from his friend Uri Geller’s private archive.

ITV Global Entertainment is distributing the project. The doc includes footage which has never been broadcast before, such as scenes of Jackson as best man at Geller’s wedding. Geller provides recollections of his conversations with Jackson regarding some of the controversy that surrounded the pop icon. 

Geller commented, “This is the real Michael Jackson, the way that just a handful of friends were privileged to see him—relaxed, witty, loving, smart, sincere and genuine. This film gives audiences around the world the opportunity to experience the reality of life with Michael.”

 He continued, “I’m thrilled that we were able to record this footage, because it focuses on one of those very rare crossovers when entertainment becomes history, of great importance to hundreds of millions of people. It breaks my heart that the world has lost such a beautiful human being, a brother to everyone and a friend whom I was proud to call my brother—thankfully he is not completely lost, because we have his music and our memories. And my clearest memories of all are captured on this videotape.”

Alexander Gardiner, the controller of factual and features at ITV Studios, said, “Documented through Uri’s most intimate and personal video clips, My Friend Michael Jackson: Uri’s Story is a unique and powerful piece of television about a truly fascinating musical icon, which I believe the millions of Michael Jackson fans around the world will be captivated by.”

Tobi de Graaff, the global director of TV distribution at ITV Global Entertainment, added, “My Friend Michael Jackson: Uri’s Story takes viewers on a tour of Uri’s most sentimental moments shared together, revealing a compelling portrait of the star and their friendship whilst offering an insight into the man who entertained the world. We are very proud to be able to offer our international broadcasters this unique film of a global music icon.”