Thirty years after their debut, the iconic Michael Jackson statues created to promote his album "HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I" have taken on lives of their own, with some ending up in unexpected places while others have faded into obscurity. Initially revealed in 1995, the statues were crafted by artists who worked diligently at Elstree Studios, ultimately celebrating the launch of the pop legend's double album, which included hits like "Earth Song."
Giant Michael Jackson Statues: A Journey Through Time and Their Current Fates
Giant Michael Jackson Statues: A Journey Through Time and Their Current Fates
Over 30 years ago, giant Michael Jackson statues were erected to celebrate the pop icon's illustrious career. This article explores their intriguing journeys and whereabouts today.
The towering 32-foot fibreglass icons were designed to follow Jackson on his global tour. While many of these statues have been lost to time—possibly stored away or destroyed—some have remained notable landmarks, their fates offering a glimpse into the legacy of the King of Pop.
One statue, for example, found its home at a McDonald's in Best, Netherlands, where it drew fans into a shrine-like atmosphere until its removal in 2019 after the controversial documentary "Leaving Neverland" aired. Restaurant owner Peter Van Gelder bought the statue at a charity auction, providing a unique attraction that ultimately became a victim of shifting public sentiment.
In Austria, another statue was rescued from obscurity by radio auction, making its way to a defunct nightclub, now closed but once frequented by party-goers looking to celebrate Jackson. The owner, Franz Josef Zika, is currently seeking a new venue for the statue, expressing hope that it can find a new home that appreciates its significance.
Meanwhile, other statues tale a different story. An abandoned entertainment venue in South Africa still holds one of Jackson's towering figures, albeit in a state of neglect. Additional statues scattered across other locations—from amusement parks in Italy to fairgrounds in Switzerland—tell the tales of pop cultural iconography struggling to maintain relevance years after its creator's death.
As time passes, the fate of these fibreglass monoliths remains a testament to the lasting impact of Michael Jackson, even as public perception of the artist remains controversial.
One statue, for example, found its home at a McDonald's in Best, Netherlands, where it drew fans into a shrine-like atmosphere until its removal in 2019 after the controversial documentary "Leaving Neverland" aired. Restaurant owner Peter Van Gelder bought the statue at a charity auction, providing a unique attraction that ultimately became a victim of shifting public sentiment.
In Austria, another statue was rescued from obscurity by radio auction, making its way to a defunct nightclub, now closed but once frequented by party-goers looking to celebrate Jackson. The owner, Franz Josef Zika, is currently seeking a new venue for the statue, expressing hope that it can find a new home that appreciates its significance.
Meanwhile, other statues tale a different story. An abandoned entertainment venue in South Africa still holds one of Jackson's towering figures, albeit in a state of neglect. Additional statues scattered across other locations—from amusement parks in Italy to fairgrounds in Switzerland—tell the tales of pop cultural iconography struggling to maintain relevance years after its creator's death.
As time passes, the fate of these fibreglass monoliths remains a testament to the lasting impact of Michael Jackson, even as public perception of the artist remains controversial.
