No Go for Jacko Auction

For those of you wanting to get your hands on one of Michael Jackson's signature, sparkly gloves or something else from a 2,000-item collection of his personal effects, it looks like you're out of luck. The much-anticipated auction of Jackson memorabilia won't go on as scheduled next week.

"The auction isn't going to take place. We wanted to reach an agreement (with Jackson) and we have reached one today that is mutually acceptable and beneficial," auctioneer Darren Julien told Reuters.

Jackson's camp initially had agreed to allow the sale of items taken from the reclusive pop singer's Neverland Ranch, which were expected to pull in about $10 million. But in March, Jackson filed a lawsuit seeking the return of some of the items. Earlier this month, a judge ruled the auction could go forward.

Despite the judge's decision, the two sides continued to negotiate the issue and late Tuesday word came that the auction had been called off and that the items would be returned to Jackson.

Even though there won't be an auction, those interested in the Jackson collection can see them during a public display, which continues until April 25. And both Jackson's camp and the auction house suggested there might be a more permanent presentation in the future.

"There was so much interest from so many of Jackson's fans that instead of putting the items in the hands of private collectors, Dr. (Jackson spokesman Tohme R.) Tohme and Julien's Auction House have made arrangements that will allow the collection to be shared with and enjoyed by Jackson's fans for many years to come," a joint statement by both sides said.

by J. Jennings Moss