Barbra Streisand Faces Backlash For Downplaying Michael Jackson Molestation Accusations
Barbra Streisand is facing backlash after recent comments she made about the sexual abuse allegations against Michael Jackson.
The singer spoke with The Times of London about Leaving Neverland, the documentary about alleged Jackson victims Wade Robson and James Safechuck. In the documentary, the two men dive deep into allegations that Jackson sexually abused them as children. Streisand was asked if she believes the two men's stories. Streisand said she "absolutely" believed Robson and Safechuck's stories. She went on to say, however, that "His sexual needs were his sexual needs," which didn't sit well with fans.
"His sexual needs were his sexual needs, coming from whatever childhood he has or whatever DNA he has. You can say 'molested,' but those children, as you heard say [in the documentary], they were thrilled to be there," she said. "They both married and they both have children, so it didn't kill them."
Streisand added, "It's a combination of feelings. I feel bad for the children. I feel bad for him. I blame, I guess, the parents, who would allow their children to sleep with him. Why would Michael need these little children dressed like him and in the shoes and the dancing and the hats?"
After the interview was published, Twitter filled up with responses to Streisand's comments. The singer was shamed for excusing Jackson's alleged behavior. Fans were in disbelief at her comments.
"Shame on you @BarbraStreisand for disrespecting the victims of child rape. Low class, dismissive and a shocking trivialisation. To speak up for a child abuser... I expect it from the deranged MJ fans but not from you, who should know better. #LeavingNeverland #victimshamers," one user tweeted.
Another said, "I want to fight Barbra Streisand."
"Someone PLEASE get Barbra," a third user said.
Leaving Neverland has been met with much controversy, especially where Jackson's family is concerned. The Jackson's have slammed the production of the film repeatedly, and filed a $100 million lawsuit against HBO ahead of its premiere, according to ET Online. The lawsuit calls the documentary "unvetted propaganda to shamelessly exploit an innocent man no longer here to defend himself."