Michael Jackson was one of the most unusual, talented and popular singers and performers of modern times. He gained fame and fortune with his unique style and personality.
And so it saddened millions when his life ended at the age of 50.
Now, Jackson's physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, has been convicted in a Los Angeles court of involuntary manslaughter in connection with Jackson's untimely death.
The Los Angeles County coroner had ruled that "acute propofol intoxication," plus the presence of other drugs in Jackson's system, was responsible for Jackson's death on June 25, 2009.
The circumstances were, at a minimum, bizarre. Murray had been paid $150,000 a month to be Jackson's personal physician. Testimony showed he stayed with the star six nights a week, and that Jackson regularly sought drugs from Murray to help him sleep.
Now, Murray faces the loss of his medical license and up to four years in prison.
The whole matter is a tragedy for one of the world's most famous entertainers -- and for his family and friends as well.