Netflix documentary 'Michael Jackson: The Verdict' sparks fan backlash

Netflix released a three‑part documentary series titled “Michael Jackson: The Verdict” that revisits the pop star’s 2005 criminal trial. The series combines archival footage and interviews with participants from both prosecution and defence, including prosecutors Ron Zonen, defence lawyer Mark Geragos, jurors, witnesses and journalists such as Martin Bashir.

The documentary has been met with strong criticism from fans and some viewers. On IMDb it holds a rating of about 4.2/10 from more than two thousand votes. Critics and fans argue the programme re‑opens accusations against Jackson after his acquittal, accusing Netflix of bias toward the prosecution.

German coverage highlights narrator Martin Bashir recalling a “shocking” 2002 incident in which Jackson allegedly shared a bed with a sick boy, Gavin Arvizo, during filming of “Living with Michael Jackson”. Bashir is quoted as saying, “Wir alle, das Produktionsteam, sind völlig fassungslos.” The new documentary is described as offering context but largely re‑hashing old scandal material.