Michael raises Jackson 5's price

Wednesday, March 07, 2007

Michael Jackson's reunion with the Jackson Five could earn him 250 million. The group - who last regularly performed together 23 years ago - are set to earn a fortune from playing 250 Las Vegas concerts over three years. A world tour, a best-of album, two new tracks, merchandise and product endorsements have also been discussed. The band - comprising of Tito, Marlon, Jackie, Michael and Jermaine - are currently in talks with producer Jack Wishna, who was responsible for Celine Dion's shows in Caesar's Palace. A source told Britain's Daily Mail newspaper: "The rest of the family were offered a deal to reform - for a much smaller payday - and told if they got Michael on board, the figure would skyrocket. The deal being thrashed out now is astronomical."

However, it has not been easy convincing Michael to return to the group. He has reportedly made a series of outlandish demands regarding his Las Vegas move. The source added: "He has been requesting all sorts of additions, like finding a secure high-walled home for himself and his children in Nevada for the duration of the Las Vegas concerts." Rumours are also rife a Jackson Five theme park, museum, casino and hotel could be in the pipeline. The Jackson family's attorney Brian Oxman confirmed the band were in talks, but insisted the figures being discussed were "totally preliminary". Michael, 49, has estimated debts of 170 million. He was acquitted of 10 counts of child molestation in December 2003 and has since lived as a recluse.