Jacksons Get Dose of Reality

Michael's nephews shop around a reality series following their return to the spotlight, featuring extended Jackson family

By Gina Serpe Dec 14, 2005 5:30 PMTags

Nevermind that VH1 show--this is the surreal life.

Music producer Cory Rooney is currently shopping around a reality series to cable networks which would feature the extended Jackson family, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

Per Rooney, the show would follow three of Michael Jackson's nephews, Tito's sons, who formed the semi-successful early '90s R&B band 3T, as they attempt to relaunch their singing careers as adults.

The former boy band, comprised of brothers Tariano "Taj" Adaryll, Taryll Adren and Tito "TJ" Joseph, were best known for the romantic ballad "Anything."

The rest of the Jackson family would appear on the show as mentors and advisors for the band as they navigate their way back into the spotlight.

While LaToya and Jermaine have already confirmed that, should the show get picked up, they would be featured heavily, there's no word yet on the participation of the most famous Jackson of all.

Home-video footage of Uncle Mike interacting with his nephews is featured in the pilot (as is a cameo from San Francisco Giants slugger Barry Bonds), though it's still unclear whether the self-proclaimed King of Pop will pop up in future episodes--especially since he has relocated to Bahrain for the foreseeable future.

But even if Michael Jackson doesn't appear in the show, his presence will still be felt.

According to Rooney, the main obstacle the comeback-minded group faces is overcoming the public perception of their oddball family, in particular the child-molestation allegations that have dogged Uncle Mike. (He was acquitted of such charges in June, but many pundits feel the damage to his reputation is irreparable.)

Speaking of the Moonwalker, he is taking on the National Enquirer over a story that claimed he had been hospitalized in Bahrain following an overdose of alcohol and the painkiller Demerol, the second such report in as many months.

As he did in November, Jackson has released a statement through publicist Raymone Bain refuting the overdose allegation.

"Michael Jackson has been working with several artists recording his Katrina relief song, and with me all week, including today," Bain said Friday. "He is doing fine. I've never seen him happier or healthier.

"Whomever these individuals are who are intent on disseminating false information, [they] should begin hiring good attorneys."