Michael Jackson was an icon of music and popular culture. His death has triggered an intense global response as well as legal questions about the future of his family and estate. UCLA faculty members with expertise in several disciplines can address the issues raised and Jackson's cultural significance.

 

Christopher Waterman, dean of the School of Arts and Architecture, can discuss Jackson's legacy as a performer and musician. The co-author of "American Popular Music From Minstrels to MP3," Waterman is a UCLA professor of ethnomusicology.

Media contact: Shilo Munk (310) 825-4140

 

Darnell Hunt, director of UCLA's Bunche Center for African American Studies and a professor of sociology, is an authority on race relations, the media's coverage of race-related issues and the depiction of African Americans in film and television.

Media contact: Mona Gable (310) 206-3986

 

Carole Bender is director of the Center for Child Welfare in the Department of Social Welfare at the UCLA School of Public Affairs. She can comment on the Michael Jackson child custody issue, and on social services for children in general.

Media contact: Minne Hong Ho (310) 206-0159

 

Vickie Mays, professor of psychology and director of the UCLA Center for Research, Education, Training and Strategic Communication on Minority Health Disparities. She can comment on questions about Jackson's mental health and substance abuse issues.

Media contact: Email (310) 206-5159.

 

Richard Walter, professor of screenwriting at the School of Theater, Film and Television, can comment on Jackson's influence on popular culture.

Media contact: (310) 206-6855

 

Allyson Nadia Field, assistant professor of cinema and media studies in the School of Theater, Film and Television, looks at race and ethnicity in American film and entertainment.

Media contact: Email