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'48 Hours' Delves into the Many Questions that Remain about Michael Jackson's Death



The one-hour special, "Michael Jackson: Picking Up the Pieces," will be anchored by Katie Couric and will be broadcast on Tuesday, June 30.



June 30, 2009

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With the sudden passing of Michael Jackson last week, millions of people around the world are paying their respects to the King of Pop, yet the circumstances surrounding his death remain a mystery and raise even more questions about his life. CBS News will take a look at both his legacy and the investigation into his death as part of the "48 Hours" special "Michael Jackson: Picking Up the Pieces" anchored by Katie Couric on Tuesday, June 30 (10:00-11:00 pm, ET/PT).

With the probe under way, many are awaiting answers as to just what happened when Jackson collapsed, amid speculation about his use of prescription pain killers. The broadcast will take a look at Dr. Conrad Murray, the physician who reportedly found Jackson not breathing, shortly before the singer's death.
While Jackson's music has brought joy to so many, his life was riddled with controversy. "Michael Jackson: Picking Up the Pieces" will step back and look at the man whose strained relationship with his family, poor body image and plastic surgery eventually eclipsed his talent. The broadcast will examine Jackson's connection to the black community during his career as well as his legacy among musicians today and into the future.

In creating a pop-music dynasty, Jackson amassed a fortune, one that provided him a life of excess, eventually plunging him into debt. In the wake of his death, Jackson leaves behind an estate in financial upheaval, which will likely take years to untangle. And the fate of Jackson's three children is also uncertain. "Michael Jackson: Picking Up the Pieces" will examine what lies ahead both financially and emotionally for those closest to him.

Despite all the questions that remain about who Michael Jackson really was, one thing is clear - his talent knew no boundaries and there has been no shortage of remembrances of his life and music. "Michael Jackson: Picking Up the Pieces" will include the latest tributes - big and small - across the globe, including the memorable performances at the BET Awards, the more intimate gatherings of his fans and the memorial service taking place at the famed Apollo Theater.

Susan Zirinsky is the executive producer of "Michael Jackson: Picking Up the Pieces."