Neverland Ranch is taking center stage once again in Michael Jackson biopic

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses the history and significance of Neverland, the famous ranch owned by the late pop icon Michael Jackson. It covers the ranch's origins, Jackson's vision for it, its role in his life and legacy, as well as its uncertain future after his death.

🙋 Q&A

[01] Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch

1. What was Michael Jackson's vision for Neverland Ranch?

• Jackson wanted to create a "playground paradise" at Neverland, essentially recreating the childhood he felt he never had. He installed various amusement park rides, a zoo, petting zoo, and other attractions to entertain guests, especially children.
• He told Oprah Winfrey that he invited terminally ill children from programs like Make-A-Wish to enjoy Neverland's offerings every three weeks.

2. How did Neverland become linked to both the highs and lows of Jackson's life?

• Neverland became inextricably linked to Jackson's life, emerging as a character in the larger Jackson story. It was the site of both positive events, like Elizabeth Taylor's wedding, as well as the investigations into allegations of sexual misconduct involving minors.
• After the 2003 police raid and Jackson's subsequent indictment (though he was later acquitted), he never returned to Neverland, and the property fell into disrepair.

3. What happened to Neverland after Jackson's death?

• After Jackson's death in 2009, Neverland remained something of a pilgrimage site for fans, but there were initially no concrete plans to turn it into a Graceland-style destination and museum.
• The property went on the market in 2016 for $100 million, with the asking price later dropping to $67 million. It wasn't until 2020 that billionaire Ron Burkle purchased the property for $22 million.

[02] Neverland's Role in Upcoming Michael Jackson Biopic

1. How is Neverland expected to feature in the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic?

• Neverland is certain to feature prominently in the highly-anticipated Michael biopic, given its central role in Jackson's life and as a filming location for the production.
• The article mentions that recent activity and restorations have been taking place at Neverland amidst the filming of the biopic, which is being directed by Antoine Fuqua and is due for release in 2025.

2. What has the recent activity at Neverland involved?

• According to the article, the county planning department has confirmed that Neverland's staff has been on-site for the last 4-6 months, pulling permits for roofing, electrical, and other minor work.
• More recently, filming permits were obtained for the ranch and adjacent road in April through May 1 for "dialogue, petting zoo, stunt" during daylight hours, including the use of special effects and helicopters, with more than 300 personnel listed.