As reported Thursday, Michael Jackson has filed a lawsuit against Julien’s Auctions over the upcoming auction event in April, liquidating Jackson’s personal property and memorabilia from Neverland Ranch. Now Auction Network, the online bidding service provider, has announced on their website that they are withdrawing as a partner in the auction “unless or until the controversy is resolved”.
The statement from the Auction Network website:
Due to the legal controversy that has arisen between Julien’s Auctions and Michael Jackson/MJJ Productions, Auction Network is withdrawing as the online bidding service provider unless and until the controversy is resolved between the parties. We apologize for any inconvenience, but this controversy is not a matter that is within our control. Please check back periodically for updates.
The statement from the Julien’s Auctions website:
Auction Network will broadcast live streaming video of the auction and provide viewers with real-time, interactive bidding during the auction. Online viewers can watch the action unfold and join in to bid live against the auction’s attendees and people around the world. Auction Network also delivers adrenaline-fueled entertainment, exclusive previews of items and the historic, emotional stories associated with them.
The Auction Network statement can be found on two pages on the AuctionNetwork.com website:
Auction Network Upcoming Live Auctions
The Auction Network role per Julien’s Auctions can be found on the JuliensAuctions.com website:
Additionally, the limited edition signed and numbered catalog set on the Julien’s Auctions website shows a status of “SOLD OUT” [ARCHIVE]. Given the nature of Jackson’s lawsuit against Julien’s Auction, it will be interesting to see if any such catalogs exist. If anyone receives such a copy, please contact me.
Original Feature: Auction House Controversies In The News: Christie’s & China, Antiquorium & India, Julien’s Auctions & Michael Jackson
Jason De Bord
Jason DeBord, Original Prop Blog