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Magician Remembers Michael Jackson


Dixie Dooley

Michael Jackson

Magician Dixie Dooley sent this remembrance of the late Michael Jackson, a former Las Vegas resident. Jackson died Thursday at age 50.

“On a cold windy day in Las Vegas, February 13Th. 2007 I was invited to perform my magic at a birthday party. With the wind whistling outside, this surreal performance for only ten people lasted over an hour in front of a beautiful fireplace at Michael Jackson’s home in Las Vegas. To this day the familiar voice of Michael Jackson along with his three children, Blanket, Paris and Prince, echo in my mind. Michael applauded, laughed and made wonderful comments after every trick I performed.

“I was afforded on this day a rare opportunity to spend the entire afternoon with Michael and his children, to talk about magic and how much we both loved it. He wanted to visit me and see my HOUDINI collection, I found him to be very open, an a complete gentleman. He was very up and seemed to be a very happy person. It was also very clear his children genuinely loved him dearly.

“As I was finally leaving, Michael was having cake and opening presents with Prince the birthday boy. When Michael saw that I was leaving he ran down the hall to once again shake my hand and ask me to come back and visit so we could talk magic.

“I never did. But I feel I got to know a side of Michael Jackson that few people see, the off stage Michael Jackson at home with his children laughing and having fun.

“I have known Joe Jackson, Rebe, Kate and Tito for some time and my heart goes out to the entire family. Entertainers are the most giving of people, and Michael gave everything and made us all richer for his efforts.”

Review-Journal stories:
Michael Jackson’s relationship with Las Vegas started at young age
Jackson mourned at Tussauds
NORM: Jackson ‘loved’ Cirque show idea
DOUG ELFMAN: Singer ‘very bonded’ with chimp

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