Janet Jackson Honors Brother Michael At 2009 BET Awards

The 2009 BET Awards were held in Los Angeles, California on Sunday, June 28, 2009.  Award winning singer, songwriter, performer and sister of Michael, Janet Jackson took the stage to speak on behalf of the entire grieving Jackson family.  Janet also wanted to specifically thank fans for the outpouring of all their love and support.

(Sean Paul honors memory of Michael Jackson with one glove at 2009 BET Awards - June 28, 2009 - Los Angeles, California - HBM Media - All Rights Reserved).

It was Janet's first public appearance since her brother died on Thursday, June 25, 2009. With a deep sadness on her face the beautiful star walked on stage and gave a touching speech.

Janet said: "My entire family wanted to be here tonight, but it was just too painful, so they elected me to be here."  Michael's father was in attendance at the show.

Ms. Jackson noted that her brother Michael was the King of Pop.  She also said he was an icon to all in attendance, but that to the Jacksons, "he was family."

After her brief comments, Stevie Wonder, Ne-Yo and Jamie Foxx took the stage and sang a poignant "I'll Be There" by the Jackson 5.

Celebrities Honored Michael With Jackson's Signature Single Glove Accessory

Many celebrities attending the BET Awards honored Michael Jackson's memory by wearing a single glove as part of their outfits. Each of the celebs wearing the honorary gloves gave it their own touch. Sean Paul flashed a glittery cut-off motorcycle glove while Estelle opted for a skintight white one.  Fonzworth Bentley, singer of American Boy wore a single white glove.

Alicia Keys, Mickey "MeMpHiTz" Wright and members of the group Day 26 were also outfitted with gloves on one hand.

Professional basketball player Carmelo Anthony sported a white T-shirt with a black outline of Jackson. DeMario "Raz-B" Thornton and Wan Ali sparkled with T-shirts and suits bejeweled with images of Jackson.

Throughout the awards show, host Jamie Foxx paid the biggest fashion tribute to Jackson with several outfit changes that featured signature Jackson touches, including his jackets from the "Billie Jean" and "Bad" music videos. The show became a celebration of Jackson. New Edition kicked off the show with a medley of Jackson 5 songs.

Several stars remembered their final encounters with Jackson. Ciara recounted talking to him on the phone. Arsenio Hall said the last time he talked to Jackson was before he moved to Bahrain.

Taraji P. Henson said she once visited the Neverland estate when she was 10. Sean Combs said his most memorable moment occurred when the King of Pop unexpectedly showed up to one of his soirees. "He kicked it all night," said Combs.

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