//Photos: Michael Jackson’s “This Is It” Tour Rehearsals//

Before his unexpected death last Thursday (June 25), Michael Jackson was gearing up to take London’s O2 Arena stage for a series of spectacular shows on his “This Is It” tour.

The singer was hard at work crafting a show that was said to have the same amazing energy as his shows in the 80’s with director/choreographer Kenny Ortega, who is widely known for his work on the High School Musical franchise.

Photographer Kevin Mazur of Wireimage released two photos from the rehearsals at the Staples Center in Los Angeles where Jackson perfected his moves for the show just days before his death. He also included a statement expressing his grief over the King of Pop’s passing:

“I am devastated by the sudden loss of ‘The King of Pop,’ who I have photographed numerous times since the Victory Tour in the ’80s. When he hit the stage at rehearsal, I was thrilled that the magical Michael Jackson was BACK!!! I felt the same adrenaline rush as when I photographed him the first time moonwalking. I was so looking forward to shooting the O2 Arena performances with the amazing production that Kenny Ortega and AEG put together with Michael for his fans.”

Two other photos shot by a different photographer in May were also released.

The final rehearsal was recorded and will possibly be released for fans to experience, according to MTV News.

Check out the pictures on the other side.

photos: wireimage

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