LONDON (AFP) – The organisers of Michael Jackson's comeback tour dates in London have announced they would offer full ticket refunds following his death last week.
"AEG Live (UK) Ltd, concert promoters, announced that full refunds will be available to fans who purchased tickets through authorised agents for any of the 50 Michael Jackson 'This Is It' concerts which were to take place at The O2 Arena in London," AEG Live announced in a statement.
Jackson's fans from around the world had rushed to snap up tickets for the performances, which were due to start on July 13.
British media reports said about 50 million pounds (59 million euros, 83 million dollars) has been spent on 750,000 tickets.
Fans had also queued for hours to watch the reclusive star's final public appearance when he unveiled the gigs here in March, promising to play his classic tunes.
"The world lost a kind soul who just happened to be the greatest entertainer the world has ever known," said Randy Phillips, president of AEG Live.
"Since he loved his fans in life, it is incumbent upon us to treat them with the same reverence and respect after his death."
AEG Live said the refunds would include all ticket service charges and said all details would be available at www.michaeljacksonlive.com from July 1.
Fans who would prefer to keep the ticket as a piece of memorabilia will have the option to be sent the actual piece of paper, which AEG said had been "inspired and designed by Michael Jackson".
Trading website eBay, where tickets had fetched prices of up to 1,300 pounds, has already said that fans who had bought seats for the shows through its website would receive a refund.