Dancers chosen for Jackson shows

Michael Jackson has reportedly picked his 12 backing dancers for this year's shows after three days of auditions in Los Angeles.

Around 500 candidates from around the world had travelled to the Nokia Theatre LA Live with the hope of joining the star for his sold-out 50-date residency at London's O2, The Sun reports.

The chosen dancers are Charles Kapow, Ricardo Reid, Tyne Stecklein, Misha Hamilton, Mekia Cox, Nicholas Bass, Danielle Rueda-Watts and Christopher Grant from the US; Daniel Celbre and Devin Jamieson from Canada; Timor Steffens from Germany and Australian Shannon Holtzapffel.

Show director Kenny Ortega said: "These are artists whose talent, dedication, skill and passion for performing with their idol is felt every hour of every day spent rehearsing.

"What is going to take place on that stage at the O2 arena in July will truly be inspiring."

Jackson has reportedly expressed an interest in featuring Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake and Leona Lewis as support acts during the concerts.