Michael Jackson's Body Begins Journey To Staples Center

Michael Jackson’s body has begun the journey from the Forest Lawn Cemetery in Hollywood to the Staples Center in downtown Los Angeles.

The star’s gold casket, which has been decorated with red flowers, was loaded into a hearse following a private family ceremony.

The hearse is being followed by an entourage of cars, which are thought to include members of Jackson’s family and close friends.

Michael Jackson's casket is bought from the Forest Lawn Cemetery.

Major highways and roads have been closed ahead of Jackson’s journey to the Staples Center.

As previously reported on Gigwise, the venue will hold stage a huge tribute to the star, with performances from Mariah Carey, Stevie Wonder and Usher.

Other stars set to appear include Jennifer Hudson, Smokey Robinson and basketball players Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant.

Martin Luther King II and Shaheen Jarfargholi – a former contestant on Britain’s Got Talent – are also due to attend.

Follow the event as it happens now on Gigwise’s live blog here.

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