Michael Jackson's mum slams 'heinous' drug reports

Michael Jackson's mother has hit out at reports of the singer's alleged drug and alcohol problems, dismissing the accusations as "troubling and heinous".

The Thriller star is said to have developed a dependency on drink and painkillers, forcing his family to step in to look after his business affairs, according to reports in US magazine, People.

But Katherine Jackson - supported by her sons Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and Jackie - has blasted the claims as "inaccurate" and "defamatory", insisting the publications making the false accusations are only motivated by financial gains.

In a statement issued by Jackson's representative, Raymone K. Bain, Katherine also calls for an end to the rumours.

She says: "People magazine has followed other publications in reporting untrue and inaccurate information about Michael Jackson and the Jackson family.

"Of these widely reported rumors, what has become the most troubling and heinous, is that my son, and our brother, Michael Jackson, is dependent on painkillers and alcohol. People, and other news organizations, have quoted 'sources' indicating that our family has attempted a drug intervention, and engaged in an effort to take over his business affairs, because of this alleged drug and alcohol usage.

"We categorically deny ever planning, participating in, or having knowledge of any kind of intervention, whatsoever. We strongly believe that these 'sources' and others, no matter who they are, are making these defamatory, inaccurate, and untrue claims for monetary reasons.

"Michael Jackson, and the Jackson family, has endured years of false accusations and misrepresentations. It is time for these unfair and hurtful rumors, for profit, to end."