POP/ROCK - June 17, 1987

Michael Jackson on Tuesday offered $1 million to the London Hospital Medical College for the remains of the late John Merrick, known as the “Elephant Man,” according to Jackson’s manager, Frank Dileo. That was double Jackson’s previous offer of a few weeks ago, which the hospital rejected. Dileo said Jackson’s absorbing interest in the remains of Merrick is based on his awareness of the ethical, medical and historical significance of the “Elephant Man.” According to Dileo, Jackson has become a “student” of Merrick, and has visited the hospital in London twice.