Matt is very protective of his ex-friend Michael Jackson, who he describes as one of the most caring people he has ever met. He is tired of the constant negative documentaries and narrative being put out, particularly after his death. Join him on this episode where he speaks to Rob Swinson, Neverland Valley Park Developer and trusted friend of Michael Jackson and host and Larry. They both worked closely alongside Michael and Matt talks to them about their experience of being part of the new documentary: Michael Jacksons Zoo and what they actually saw whilst working with Michael.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Matt was almost talked into appearing on the Michael Jacksons Zoo documentary too. He was assured that it would show Michael in a positive light but Matt knew after the history of the media narrative surrounding Michael that this would be highly unlikely. He was also suspicious of the angle and how something positive would be so highly funded, so he declined.
Both Rob and Matt saw the care Michael gave to so many children, that was his dream for Neverland. Neverland was built out of his mission and care to help people. He didn’t spend as much time in the park as often perceived, he was busy working. He mostly paid people to run things for him, including the zoo.
Neverland is perceived as Michael Jacksons home, but he wasn’t there like you and I are in our home. Larry had free reign on the Neverland home, nowhere was off limits. He saw so many things that contradict rumours about him including what a doting father he was and how much he trusted animals and children.
The Neverland Zoo wasn’t a zoo as you would imagine in a city. It was very well maintained and it wasn’t very large and was focused on the animals.