However, as much as they may dislike the messages that are being conveyed by these documentaries, we strenuously oppose their efforts to “shoot the messenger.” It is easy to see why they do not want the subject matter of these films to be reported to the public. In a strongly-worded defense of the director, she said the Jackson companies were attempting to “suppress” reporting on the Robson and Safechuck cases.Ĭompton said: “Understandably, the MJJ companies are not happy with “Leaving Neverland” or the making of the follow-up documentary. Reed’s motion to quash was supported by a declaration from Channel 4’s head of news and current affairs Louisa Compton. John Branca, the Jackson companies’ CEO and co-executor of the Michael Jackson Estate, also refused to participate in the documentary. Among them is the fact that you are already clearly on the record saying that you believe both accusers’ stories without hesitation,” Weitzman said in an email last month. “I have resolved that neither myself or anyone in my offices will participate in the documentary we all discussed for several reasons.
Following a constructive meeting with Reed in June, Weitzman declined. Reed attached emails showing that he has asked MJJ Productions and MJJ Ventures counsel Howard Weitzman to appear in the second documentary. “The follow-up documentary for which I am currently filming in these cases is about current events taking place partly in public view and will be an unfolding narrative with multiple points of view,” he said. In response to the brief’s “various false accusations” about his credibility, Reed laid out his record as an Emmy and BAFTA-winning filmmaker who wants to use the follow-up Leaving Neverland documentary to chronicle the legal proceedings from both sides. He also points out that he has no personal affiliation with Robson and Safechuck, and has not paid the plaintiffs to appear in his sequel - a claim made to the court by the Jackson companies. Within the 79-page motion, he makes clear that he is a UK resident and Amos does not operate in California, which could make it difficult for a judge to compel Reed to hand over production materials. Reed hit back with a motion to quash the subpoenas at the LA court last week. They are also attempting to ban him from filming in the courtroom. The subpoenas, served on September 21, were followed by Jackson’s attorneys filing a brief in which they attempt to discredit Reed, persuade the court that he is not a legitimate journalist, and portray Leaving Neverland as one-sided.
Jackson’s companies served Reed and his production outfit, Amos Pictures, with subpoenas demanding that he personally appear for deposition and hand over documents and materials related to Leaving Neverland and the sequel. Michael Jackson Dies: KABC Host, Radio Hall Of Fame Inductee Was 87
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