Kevin Mazur/Getty ImagesElizabeth Taylor, one of Michael Jackson's closest and most supportive friends for nearly two decades, is grieving her loss in private at this time.
"Dame Elizabeth Taylor is too devastated by the passing of her dear friend Michael Jackson to issue a statement at this timem" her rep says. "We will direct her words to you once we receive them."
Taylor first called Jackson the "King of Pop" when she presented him with the Artist of the Decade award in 1989 and she remained one of his most ardent defenders throughout his trial on child-molestation charges in 1995.
But the outpouring of love from the women who spent quality time with Jackson didn't end there.
Brooke Shields also walked many a red carpet with Jackson over the years, and tonight she is mourning the loss of her longtime friend and reported Blue Lagoon-era love interest.
"My heart is overcome with sadness for the devastating loss of my true friend Michael," the actress said.
"He was an extraordinary friend, artist and contributor to the world. I join his family and his fans in celebrating his incredible life and mourning his untimely passing."