Tokyo: Pop star Michael Jackson appeared in public in Tokyo yesterday for the first time since his acquittal on sex-abuse charges last year and was welcomed by an adoring crowd.
Neither heavy rain nor scandal could prevent several hundred Japanese fans from flocking to catch a glimpse of the 47-year-old entertainer as he arrived at a Tokyo stadium to receive a music award.
The crowd held up signs that read "We love you, Michael" and "Welcome to Japan" and some sported his trademark glitter glove as Jackson stepped out of a black limousine, surrounded by several bodyguards.
Jackson, in a jewellery-embroidered black blazer and tight black trousers with a simple white T-shirt, did not speak but waved and raised a forefinger to acknowledge a group of reporters before he was whisked inside along a red carpet.
Jackson has remained largely in seclusion since his trial on child molestation charges. He is in Tokyo to receive a "Legend Award" at MTV's Japan Video Music Awards ceremony yesterday, according to spokeswoman Raymone Bain.
He will also will spend time in Tokyo touring the city, visiting orphanages and meeting with Asian business leaders, Bain said.
