Peter Andre defends Michael Jackson’s music ahead of Thriller musical role

Peter Andre has defended his decision to take on a guest role in the Thriller musical despite renewed sexual abuse allegations against Michael Jackson.

Historic allegations against Jackson hit headlines again earlier this year after the release of the documentary Leaving Neverland, which featured graphic claims of abuse.

Jackson’s estate vehemently denied the allegations against the star and unsuccessfully urged to Channel 4 to rethink their plans to screen the two-part film.

Andre, 46, will take on the lead role in the West End production of Thriller this December, and has defended the continued prominence of Jackson’s music.

Speaking on Wednesday’s Good Morning Britain, he said: “I’ve always said that I think we’ve got to keep the music separate.

“If you’re going to go there and say you can’t listen to the music because there are allegations, OK, well do you listen to the music pre and supposed allegations? Where do you go with it?

“This show is about the music. I always have to say that they are allegations.”

Andre is far from the first famous face to defend Jackson.

Earlier this year, Madonna had her say on the matter, telling British Vogue: “I don’t have a lynch-mob mentality, so in my mind, people are innocent until proven guilty.

“I’ve had a thousand accusations hurled at me that are not true. So my attitude when people tell me things about people is, ‘Can you prove it?’”

In August, Naomi Campbell posted a tribute to Jackson on what would have been his 61st birthday.

“Happy birthday, always in my heart, miss you,” she wrote.

Good Morning Britain airs on weekdays from 6am on ITV.