
Michael Jackson was drowning in debt at the time of his death:
By the 2000s, Michael Jackson faced severe financial struggles, nearing bankruptcy with $4.5 million in monthly interest on a $272.5 million loan and 47 lawsuits. His 50-show *This Is It* residency at London’s O2 Arena was seen as an effort to alleviate his debts. After his death, court hearings revealed his debts had grown to $400–500 million.