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Filmmakers hamstrung by Michael Jackson’s estate over music use

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Filmmakers hamstrung by Michael Jackson’s estate over music use

“Billie Jean” is not open for use in any Michael Jackson film.

Or any other song for that matter.

So says the late pop megastar’s estate to Lifetime Movie Network and Netflix, which recently announced films, according to the celebrity news site TMZ.com.

“Sources close to Michael Jackson's estate tell TMZ the new flicks, 'Searching for Neverland' and the recently announced animated feature, ‘Bubbles,’ are not authorized — therefore, they're not allowed to use ANY of Michael's materials ... especially his music,” TMZ reported on Monday, adding that the family has not seen either film yet.

“We're told MJ's estate is holding off on legal action for now, but if they hear anything like, oh let's say ‘Billie Jean,’ ‘Thriller,’ ‘Beat It,’ ‘Rock with You,’ ‘Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough’ or any of his hits ... they'll round up the lawyers,” TMZ reported.

The question is: How do you pull off a Michael Jackson biopic without the music?

“Good luck with that, guys,” quipped a writer for TMZ.

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