White House: Obama saw Jackson as music icon with tragedy-tinged life

White House on Jackson: pop icon, troubled life

WASHINGTON — White House press secretary Robert Gibbs says President Barack Obama saw pop star Michael Jackson as a spectacular performer and music icon whose life nonetheless had sad and tragic aspects.

Gibbs said Friday that Obama sends his condolences to the late singer’s family and fans.

The White House did not issue a statement following Jackson’s death on Thursday. Gibbs did not mention Jackson until asked about him at Friday’s regular White House briefing.