Michael Jackson was known around the world as the King of Pop, but to Donald Trump, he was more than just a superstar—he was a close friend.
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Trump fondly remembers Michael as one of the greatest entertainers of all time, but also as a kind, intelligent, and brilliant person. At one point, Michael even kept a home in Trump Tower in New York City, a place where they spent time together and deepened their friendship.
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“He had magic,” Trump said. “He was a genius. But more than that, he was a really good person when you got to know him.”
An Unforgettable Experience in Atlantic City
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One moment that stood out to Trump happened at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City. The two were walking through the casino when they were suddenly overwhelmed by thousands of fans. Even with 20 bodyguards, the crowd became dangerously intense.
Then, something unexpected happened—Michael dropped to his knees and started crawling to the exit.
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“At first, I thought he fell,” Trump recalled. “And I asked him, ‘Michael, is it always like this?’ He just smiled and said, ‘Yeah, this is nothing. Japan is much worse.’”
For Michael, this was just another day—a sign of just how famous he had become.
A Career Unlike Any Other
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Trump believes that Michael Jackson’s career was something truly unmatched. His music, his performances, and his ability to captivate audiences made him a legend.
“There’s never been anybody like him,” Trump said. “Michael in his prime—there was nothing like it.”
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From chart-topping hits like Thriller and Billie Jean to his groundbreaking dance moves, Michael changed the music industry forever.
The Struggles of His Final Years
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Despite his legendary career, Trump acknowledged that Michael’s final 10 years were difficult.
“He wasn’t the same Michael,” Trump said. “He was not well, and he had a lot of problems. It was tough for him, and he was embarrassed by what was happening.”
But Trump is certain that Michael will not be remembered for those struggles.
“He’s not going to be remembered for the last 10 years,” he said. “He’s going to be remembered for the first 35 years—the years when he was on top of the world.”
A Lasting Legacy
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Donald Trump’s memories of Michael Jackson highlight not just his extraordinary talent, but also his kindness and intelligence.
Even though his final years were tough, Trump knows that the world will always celebrate Michael for the joy and magic he brought to millions.
“Michael was different from anyone I’ve ever known,” Trump said. “But one thing is certain—he will never be forgotten.”