Jackson urged to reconsider jungle theme

An animal rights organisation has urged Michael Jackson to reconsider his reported plans to use live animals in his upcoming comeback gigs.

According to The Mirror, the 'Thriller' star wants to enter his London shows riding an elephant, while a panther is led in on gold chains behind him. He has also reportedly asked organisers to secure tropical birds, snakes and three monkeys for the jungle-themed extravaganza.

In a statement, Craig Redmond, campaigns director for the Captive Animals' Protection Society, said: "Exploiting animals in this way really is a thing of the past and not something such a high profile star should be doing.

"This would be like an animal circus, a practice opposed by most people in the UK. Jackson’s concerts have already sold out and are set to be an amazing event for his fans, so we appeal to him and his management not to spoil the show by using animals."

The organisation has also written to the O2 arena expressing their concerns. Representatives for Jackson have yet to comment on his purported plans.