Michael Jackson's health and appearance

Michael Jackson (August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009) was an American singer who spent over forty-two years in the public eye, first as a child star with the Jackson 5, and later as a solo artist, during which time he went through various image changes. Starting in the mid-1980s, it became clear that Jackson's appearance was changing dramatically. The shape of his face, particularly his nose, triggered widespread speculation of extensive cosmetic surgery. His skin tone also changed, becoming much lighter. Although Jackson was diagnosed with the skin disorder vitiligo, it was also widely suggested that the change was due to skin bleaching.

Jackson and some of his siblings said they had been physically and psychologically abused by their father, Joseph Jackson. In 2003, Joseph admitted to whipping them as children, but has emphatically rejected the longstanding abuse allegations. The whippings deeply traumatized Jackson and may have led to the onset of further health issues later in his life. Physicians speculated that he had body dysmorphic disorder.

At some point during the 1990s, it appeared that Jackson had become dependent on prescription drugs, mainly painkillers and strong sedatives. The drug use was later linked to second and third degree burns he had suffered years before. As more and more difficulty emerged in his life he gradually became dependent on these drugs and his health deteriorated. He went into rehabilitation in 1993 with the help of Elizabeth Taylor and Elton John.

While preparing for a series of comeback concerts scheduled to begin in July 2009, Jackson died of acute propofol and benzodiazepine intoxication after suffering cardiac arrest on June 25, 2009. His personal physician was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in his death and sentenced to four years in prison.

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