Michael Jackson, speaking to reporters at a carnival in Paris, is still upset about being passed over for the role of Ronald James McGorvey in the 2006 film adaptation of the book Little Children.
Jackson and his agent lobbied hard for the role, in what many entertainment insiders say is an ongoing attempt by Jackson to diversify his entertainment portfolio. Jackson told the media that this was "the ideal role" for him and that he had been waiting his entire adult life for an opportunity like this.
Jackson was passed over for the role in favor of Jackie Earle Haley, who received an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of the sex offender and pedophile. "He only got a nomination. That would have been a win had the producers not blown their chance by not picking me for the role," Jackson stated.
The decision not to cast Jackson as the troubled pedophile has caused some Hollywood insiders to criticize the film's producers. Tom Kaitlin, a prominent screenwriter, told reporters, "Nobody's creepier than Jacko. I'll admit, Haley was pretty creepy in the film, but Jackson would have been more believable."
The film's producers sent a press release to the media, stating, "We feel our decision to cast Jackie Earle Haley in the role was appropriate. He's very creepy and is able to frighten children in real life as well."
