Michael Jackson will be buried Aug. 29, on what would have been his 51st birthday, at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, according to publicists for the Jackson family. Jackson’s burial site has been the subject of much debate as family members had expressed wishes that Jackson be buried at Neverland Ranch in Santa Barbara County. Joe Jackson, the late pop star’s father, had said he preferred the burial place to be in Las Vegas as part of a new venue to honor his memory. In a statement released August 18, publicists for the Jackson family announced that a private ceremony would take place at Forest Lawn’s Holy Terrace section. Although the ceremony will be limited to family and close friends, they said there would be accommodations for the media nearby. “The Jackson family once again wishes to express its gratitude to Michael’s fans around the world for their support during these difficult times,” read the statement. Jackson died on June 25 after suffering cardiac arrest and the Los Angeles County coroner’s office has not released the results of its investigation into his death. A private memorial service for Jackson was held at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills last month, followed by a public service at Staples Center July 7. Andrea Alegria
