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| Credit: Michael Jackson/Instagram |
The Pepsi Commercial Shoot
On January 27, 1984, Michael Jackson signed a groundbreaking endorsement deal with PepsiCo, the multinational beverage corporation. The agreement stipulated that Jackson would appear in a series of commercials and promote the brand's iconic cola. One of the most highly anticipated shoots took place on January 27th itself, at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.
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The Accident
During the filming of the commercial, a pyrotechnics mishap occurred, leading to a horrific accident. The plan was for a pyrotechnics explosion to take place on stage as Jackson descended a set of stairs. However, due to a technical malfunction, the explosion occurred prematurely, engulfing the star in a blaze of flames.
Michael Jackson's Quick Thinking
Despite the intense pain and shock, Michael Jackson managed to react swiftly. With flames engulfing his head, he bravely ran offstage, with crew members rushing to douse the fire. The accident left him with severe burns on his scalp and face, requiring immediate medical attention.
Medical Treatment and Recovery
Following the accident, Jackson was rushed to the Brotman Medical Center in Culver City, California, where he received treatment for his injuries. The burns were extensive, and Jackson underwent several surgeries to repair the damage, including painful skin grafts. It took several months for him to recover physically, during which time he endured immense pain and emotional distress.
During the filming of the commercial, a pyrotechnics mishap occurred, leading to a horrific accident. The plan was for a pyrotechnics explosion to take place on stage as Jackson descended a set of stairs. However, due to a technical malfunction, the explosion occurred prematurely, engulfing the star in a blaze of flames.
Michael Jackson's Quick Thinking
Despite the intense pain and shock, Michael Jackson managed to react swiftly. With flames engulfing his head, he bravely ran offstage, with crew members rushing to douse the fire. The accident left him with severe burns on his scalp and face, requiring immediate medical attention.
Medical Treatment and Recovery
Following the accident, Jackson was rushed to the Brotman Medical Center in Culver City, California, where he received treatment for his injuries. The burns were extensive, and Jackson underwent several surgeries to repair the damage, including painful skin grafts. It took several months for him to recover physically, during which time he endured immense pain and emotional distress.
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Impact on Michael Jackson
The psychological impact of the accident was profound for Michael Jackson. His iconic appearance and striking looks were forever altered due to the extensive burns. Subsequent to the accident, he developed an increased reliance on pain medication, which would later contribute to his personal struggles.
Legal Settlement and Charity
PepsiCo quickly realized the severity of the accident and expressed deep remorse for the incident. They settled with Michael Jackson for a reported sum of $1.5 million, which he subsequently donated to the Brotman Medical Center. Jackson's decision to donate the settlement money highlighted his philanthropic nature and compassion for others.
Legacy and Industry Changes
The tragic accident during the Pepsi shooting had a lasting impact on the music industry. It prompted the adoption of stricter safety measures during live performances and commercial shoots, emphasizing the importance of artist protection. Michael Jackson's accident served as a catalyst for increased awareness of potential hazards in the entertainment industry and reinforced the necessity for precautionary measures.
The psychological impact of the accident was profound for Michael Jackson. His iconic appearance and striking looks were forever altered due to the extensive burns. Subsequent to the accident, he developed an increased reliance on pain medication, which would later contribute to his personal struggles.
Legal Settlement and Charity
PepsiCo quickly realized the severity of the accident and expressed deep remorse for the incident. They settled with Michael Jackson for a reported sum of $1.5 million, which he subsequently donated to the Brotman Medical Center. Jackson's decision to donate the settlement money highlighted his philanthropic nature and compassion for others.
Legacy and Industry Changes
The tragic accident during the Pepsi shooting had a lasting impact on the music industry. It prompted the adoption of stricter safety measures during live performances and commercial shoots, emphasizing the importance of artist protection. Michael Jackson's accident served as a catalyst for increased awareness of potential hazards in the entertainment industry and reinforced the necessity for precautionary measures.
The 1984 Pepsi shooting accident was an unforeseen tragedy that profoundly affected the life and career of the iconic Michael Jackson. Despite enduring excruciating physical pain and psychological trauma, Jackson demonstrated resilience and maintained his artistic legacy. The incident also highlighted the need for enhanced safety protocols within the entertainment industry, ensuring the protection and well-being of artists. Today, the memory of Michael Jackson's accident serves as a reminder of the indomitable spirit of a legendary performer who persevered through adversity and left an indelible mark on music history.
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