Timberlake 'will cherish Jackson memories'

Justin Timberlake has expressed his shock following the death of Michael Jackson, claiming that he will "always cherish the moments" they shared.

The SexyBack star, who has long cited Jackson as an inspiration, told TMZ that he was "deeply saddened" by the news that he had died.

"I can't find the words right now to express how deeply saddened I am by Michael's passing. We have lost a genius and a true ambassador of not only pop music, but of all music," he said.

"He has been an inspiration to multiple generations and I will always cherish the moments I shared with him on stage and all of the things I learned about music from him and the time we spent together."

Timberlake added that he was sending his best wishes to the 50-year-old's family and friends.

> Obituary: Michael Jackson