Jacko fury over 'IRA' slur

Michael Jackson is reportedly demanding an apology from the BBC - after two comedians compared him to the IRA.

British comics Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis likened the singer to the organisation on BBC Radio 4's 'The Now Show' earlier this month, saying, "(We) can't believe which 80s celebrities (we) want back less - Michael Jackson or the IRA?"

According The Daily Mirror, Jackson is furious at the comment - which came just six days after two British soldiers were murdered by loyalist gunmen in the North.

A source close to the singer told the publication: "Michael was absolutely appalled. It was a disgusting slur. To compare him to cold-blooded murderers is not funny, it is highly offensive."