Singer stays silent as jubilant fans applaud his acquittal

MICHAEL JACKSON remained calm and silent as the 10 not guilty verdicts were read to him across a hushed court room in California.

It was in complete contrast to the remarkable scenes outside the court, where hundreds of fans cheered, clapped and hugged each other as they heard their idol was a free man. And as Jackson stepped into the sunshine a free man, his fans outside went wild.

There was no repeat of the farcical scenes in January 2004 when Jackson entered his pleas at the court and afterwards jumped on to the roof of his black SUV. This time, he simply waved from underneath his umbrella before getting into his vehicle. He also refused to comment when asked by reporters for his reaction.

As Jackson’s convoy made its way home to Neverland, supporters lined the streets and applauded. Earlier, as Jackson awaited his fate, the atmosphere in the court was intense. Silence fell as the jurors took their seats. Jackson barely glanced at them as he waited to hear his fate. The suspense was unbearable during the long silence as Judge Melville opened 10 envelopes, one containing each count. All that could be heard was the paper ripping as he glanced over each decision. Adding to the tension was the judge’s warning that whatever the verdict, he would not tolerate any reaction.