Being nearly the same age as him, it was kind of like watching a childhood aquaintance make good, grow up, and become a train wreck. I remember what a hoot it was as a kid seeing this other kid with so much talent. And though I don't care for watching awards shows I happened to be watching the night he wowed everyone with the moon walk.

I have to say though, I have to wonder why he was so embraced by the black community when he spent his adult life trying to become white. I have a feeling that that attempt to change his appearance is what may have ultimately led to his death - he sure didn't look well for many years.