Michael Jackson Sketches Up for Auction With $1M Opening Bid But Estate Claims They’re Fake

Sketches allegedly created and signed by Michael Jackson are causing speculation within the iconic King of Pop's estate regarding their authenticity.

Billboard first reported that collaboration between Kings Auctions' Las Vegas and Beverly Hills offices will see a set of 78 images up for sale on Aug. 3.

The 78 artworks were created by incorporating a variety of mediums, such as wax pencils, pastels, and watercolors.

One artwork features the "Billie Jean" singer adorned in a Jedi-style robe. Others show depictions of chairs -- with one being titled "Miss Chair," created around the late '90s -- some Peter Pan-related drawings, Disney, Marilyn Monroe, and even Queen Elizabeth II sketches.

The listing's description said: "Get ready to own some of the most coveted pieces of art by one of the biggest music icons in the world. These one-of-a-kind pieces of art aren't just an investment; they are your chance to own a piece of music history."

"He was influenced by many art genres, from classical and architectural to pop art and even formal portraiture. He also had a great fondness for London and British customs," the auction house stated.

Each sketch bears a signature, and a few even feature artwork on both sides.

Kings Auctions confirmed that it is open to receiving bids for the complete collection, starting at a minimum bid of $1 million. Should the specified criteria not be fulfilled, Kings Auctions will sell the artworks separately.

However, in a recent statement provided to TMZ, the Michael Jackson estate said it doubts the authenticity of the drawings presented for auction.

An estate rep mentioned that a few years ago, people associated with the estate examined the works and had concerns about its credibility.

Despite contacting Kings Auctions with their concerns, the estate has not received concrete evidence confirming the artwork's origin.

The auction house reportedly came into possession of the collection of artwork after a series of legal proceedings in Santa Monica Court.

The sketches were carefully stored in a private collector's studio in Santa Monica, California, and the Kings Auctions rep revealed that Jackson frequented the studio to immerse himself in art while recovering from plastic surgeries.

At the time of Jackson's death in 2009, he reportedly had a net worth of $500 million, per Celebrity Net Worth. As of 2024, his estate is reportedly worth $2 billion.

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Michael Jackson