How Soon Is Too Soon to Laugh About ‘Wacko Jacko’s’ Oddball Life?
For years, comedians have made Michael Jackson a punch line. In deference to the beloved pop star’s family and fans, though, many treated his death differently. But for some, it wasn’t “too soon.” Universal Pictures’ “Bruno” screened in Los Angeles on Thursday night with a scene involving Jackson’s sister La Toya cut from the movie. A spokesman for Universal said the decision was made by the filmmakers “out of respect for the Jackson family.” The news of Jackson’s death broke just after or during the tapings of most of Thursday’s late-night shows. Jimmy Fallon’s “Late Night” on NBC made a point of the timing, with a graphic at the top of the show saying that the show had been taped earlier. Jay Leno, the comic who did the most to turn Jackson into a late-night staple, doesn’t return to the air until fall. His spokesman said he was unavailable for comment. Comedian-magician Penn Jillette found himself in an awkward spot on Thursday. He was a guest on a radio program promoting the return
