Janet Jackson, long the silent sibling on the issue of whether or not to support a planned tribute to Michael Jackson this October, has said that she will not attend the concert due to the current manslaughter trial of Michael's former physician.
"Because of the trial, the timing of this tribute to our brother would be too difficult for me," Janet said in a one sentence statement to the Associated Press.
Previously, Jermaine and Randy Jackson have objected to the tribute, titled Michael Forever, on the same grounds, though their statements have typically gone further in denouncing the concert and its promoters.
The opening statements for the trial of Dr. Conrad Murray, the physician accused of causing the singer’s death, are scheduled for September 27. Michael Forever is to take place October 8.
The concert promoter, Global Live Events, has come under fire in recent weeks for not only the timing of the show, but a variety of other issues, including the allocation of proceeds from the concert and the invitation of the band KISS to perform. The rock group’s lead singer, Gene Simmons, has made hateful comments toward Michael Jackson in the past. Their invitation has since been rescinded.
Some of the world's foremost pop stars were invited to perform at the tribute, but many have declined for various reasons including schedule conflicts. Currently, Christina Aguilera, Cee Lo, Smokey Robinson and Beyoncé (via satellite) are scheduled to headline the event, which will take place in Wales.

(Photo: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)