You're being downvoted, but you're right to point out the commercial knock-on effect this will have. My sympathies are with all of the people involved in producing the forthcoming comeback tour - that would have been the shining diamond in nearly all of their résumes (dancers, lighting folks, producers, audio technicians, etc) and likely have changed many of their careers.

I actually am expecting them to utilize the current production planning for a series of tribute shows. Any number of singers would be happy to sing, and it is a waste for all the production planning to amount to nothing.

Current rumor from the British tabloids is that Justin Timberlake will do it. I am sure he can sell out at least a few dates.

I know you're joking, but personally I'd find Timberlake doing a whole MJ set far more entertaining than the real thing.

I am completely serious. I am sure Timberlake has offered, at this point it is up to Michael Jackson's family to decide what kind of tribute show they want to do as they have been inundated with offers.

And in case you forgot... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15SxqqwF63U&feature=relat...