12 pictures: Michael Jackson memorial

Family and friends of Michael Jackson have been joined by thousands of fans at a memorial service for the singer known as the King of Pop, who died aged 50 on 25 June.














Michael Jackson's 11-year-old daughter, Paris, broke down in tears as she addressed the audience, calling Jackson "the best father you could ever imagine".




















Michael Jackson's children Paris, Prince Michael I (right) and Prince Michael II, also known as Blanket (bottom) have never before been seen in public.














Jackson's brother Jermaine, who sung a version of Smile, reputed to be one of Michael Jackson's favourite songs, threw the rose from his lapel into the audience.














Stars of the screen and stage made emotional appearances, some singing, some speaking. R&B artist Usher (pictured) was one of dozens who took to the stage.




















R&B star Usher was among the current chart-toppers who have been heavily influenced by Michael Jackson.














Singer Jennifer Hudson chose to perform, but many simply spoke to the crowd to articulate the sense of loss they felt.














Fans wrote tributes on a giant mural outside the Staples Center














Civil rights campaigner Rev Al Sharpton was one of many who spoke at the memorial service, addressing Jackson's children and telling them: "There weren't nothing strange about your daddy."














Fans and stars who attended told of a sombre atmosphere inside the Staples Centre in Los Angeles.














Motown founder Berry Gordy, who signed the Jackson Five and set the family on the road to stardom, told mourners he had been shocked by the beauty of Michael Jackson's famous "moonwalk".














Many fans wore tributes to their hero - such as this trademark white glove - as they cheered fellow performers and family members on stage.

source: bbc