American Idol Judges Remember MJ

Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul, judges from the American television program American Idol, recently spoke on one of America's all-time greatest idols, Michael Jackson.

"He was a genius," Cowell said. "It's such a shame it happened so young for him." He then went on to share his greatest memories of the pop icon. "Always the moonwalk," Simon dishes, "and 'Thriller,' I loved 'Thriller.'"

Rumors have circulated for years that Michael Jackson would take the stage on "American Idol" -- and Cowell confirmed that there was, at one time, the possibility of a Jackson appearance. "There was always talk of it and 'X Factor.' I think he would have appeared on that, but it never happened."

Paula became close to the Jackson family when she choreographed dances for Michael's "Victory Tour" and a several music videos -- including "Control" -- for his sister Janet. Abdul also made a cameo in Michael's 1987 video for "Liberian Girl." "I just wish he knew how he affected people in such a positive way," Abdul said. "I was very fortunate to be able to work closely with the entire family."

She continued, "He didn't know how to give halfway -- he didn't know how to just go through making steps. It was full-out or nothing at all."
Simon also helped discover "Britain's Got Talent" star Shaheen Jafargholi, who impressed the judge on the UK singing show with his rendition of Jackson's "Who's Loving You?" Shaheen reprised his song at Michael's memorial yesterday.

When asked who the Michael Jackson of today was, Cowell replied, "There isn't anyone else," and when asked if there ever would be, Cowell said point-blank, "No."

Source: MJFC / extra