Jackson's girl bonding, aide claims

Showbiz

13:30 11 May 2005

Michael Jackson "bonded" with both girls and boys, his child abuse trial heard yesterday (10.05.05).

Neverland Ranch manager Joe Marcus claims the eccentric star made "special friends" with two young girls who regularly visited his lavish mansion.

He also testified Jackson formed close bonds with grown women - but when pushed to produce a name, he could only name Elizabeth Taylor.

Marcus, an employee of Jackson's for 18 years, also admitted to lying to police about the star sharing his bed with boys.

He told police in November 2003 that he had no knowledge of Jackson sleeping with children, but when asked by the prosecution, 'Did you have any knowledge of children sleeping in Jackson's room?', he answered in the affirmative.

Meanwhile, Jackson is unexpectedly set to take the stand to give evidence.

His spokeswoman Raymone Bain said outside the Santa Maria courtroom: "Michael wants the world to know he didn't molest any children and wants to tell the truth.

"He has never acted inappropriately. He just likes making people happy."

Jackson denies all charges against him.

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