Michael Jackson Goes All Out for Pepsi Generation

Pop superstar Michael Jackson, who just signed a new, $50-million advertising deal with Pepsi-Cola, has a few other commercial irons in the fire. One of them is the Michael Jackson clothing collection, to be marketed for children and teen-agers in December.

According to Warren Hirsh, president of Entertainment Properties, which holds the licensing rights for Michael Jackson apparel products, the clothes reflect the singer’s “everyday,” around-the-house look, including lots of denim.

“If you were to meet Michael at home, he’d be wearing button-down colored shirts and jeans,” Hirsh said.

The apparel is in boys Sizes 8-20, girls Sizes 7-14 and junior girls Sizes 3-13. Prices range from $12 for a sleeveless T-shirt to $60 for a jacket.

Jackson received $18 million for the use of his name on the label, said Hirsh, who is a former president of Calvin Klein and Murjani International.

The New York-based Entertainment Properties, founded in December to manufacture and market the Jackson products, is owned by Chuck Sullivan, who promoted Jackson’s 1984 Victory Tour. The firm will also market upcoming Michael Jackson colognes and eye wear.

“Michael’s playing a pretty key role,” Sullivan said. “He’s actually coming up with designs reflective of the spirit he feels the clothing should have.”

The firm plans a $3 million initial advertising campaign for the apparel, Hirsh said.