Major radio networks across Australia, Canada, and New Zealand have suspended playback of Michael Jackson's music amid renewed scrutiny over allegations of child sexual abuse, following the release of the HBO documentary Leaving Neverland.
The decision comes after the film, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2019, featured testimonies from two men—James Safechuck and Wade Robson—who accused Jackson of abusing them as children. The four-hour documentary, which aired in the U.S. on March 3, 2019, reignited public debate about the late artist's relationships with minors.
In Australia, Nova Entertainment announced it would stop playing Jackson's music on its SmoothFM station, citing public sentiment. A second network, ARN, stated it was monitoring audience reactions. New Zealand's MediaWorks and NZME, which control most commercial radio, also removed his songs, with MediaWorks emphasizing the move reflected listener preferences rather than a judgment on his guilt.
Canadian radio group Cogeco, operating in Quebec and Ontario, temporarily banned hits like Billie Jean and Bad, citing listener feedback after the documentary's U.S. debut. In the U.K., the BBC reportedly paused Jackson's music ahead of the film's scheduled release, though it maintained no formal ban on artists.
Jackson's estate has filed a $100 million lawsuit against HBO, alleging breach of a non-disparagement agreement. The legal action claims the documentary exploits the singer's legacy for profit. Despite the backlash, digital platforms show continued interest, with The Essential Michael Jackson ranking as Australia's 65th most downloaded album.
