Jackson praised for 'cultural significance'

The Rev. Al Sharpton has praised Michael Jackson for his cultural influence throughout the world.

The civil rights campaigner, who was a long-time friend of Jackson, told reporters that the late singer would be remembered as an "historic figure".

"Michael Jackson made culture accept a person of colour," he explained from outside the UCLA Medical Centre.

"To say an 'icon' would only give these young people in Harlem a fraction of what he was. He was a historic figure that people will measure music and the industry by."

He added: "As a friend of Michael's for the past 35 years, I call on people from around the world to pray for him and his family."

Jackson, 50, passed away last night after suffering suspected cardiac arrest.