Jackson’s two oldest children are Jews

THE mother of Michael Jackson’s two oldest children revealed today that they are Jewish by birth.

Debbie Rowe, Jackson’s ex-wife, is reportedly concerned that Nation of Islam members, who are handling some of the pop star’s security arrangements, may try to convert them.

According to Fox News, Rowe has told friends she does not want the children “exposed” to members of the black separatist movement.

Prince Michael, six, and daughter Paris, five, are believed to be living in a safe house in Beverly Hills, guarded by Nation of Islam security staff.

Jackson, who is not a member of the group, is also living there with his baby, named Prince Michael II, whose mother is unknown to the public. Rowe’s lawyer, Iris Finsilver, confirmed that Rowe is Jewish, but had no other comment.

The development came a day before Jackson was due to appear in court in Santa Maria, California, charged with sexually abusing a teenage cancer survivor.

Hundreds of Jackson fans from across the United States and further afield are expected to descend on the courthouse before the proceedings begin. They will be accompanied by several hundred members of the media. While TV cameras will not be allowed inside the court, journalists will be able to watch the proceedings via a CCTV link to the courtroom, a judge ruled.

Jackson, aged 45, is charged with seven counts of performing lewd or lascivious acts on a child under 14 and two counts of administering an intoxicating agent, reportedly wine.

The offences allegedly took place at Jackson’s Neverland Ranch, near Santa Barbara, California. Jackson is free on £7 million bail pending the hearing.