Leaving Neverland: TI claims Michael Jackson documentary is part of agenda to 'destroy' black culture

Rapper posted a strong reaction after the Leaving Neverland documentary was broadcast in the US

Rapper TI has issued a controversial defence of Michael Jackson after Piers Morgan shared an interview with the late pop star, where he said he would "slit his wrists" before hurting a child.

Posting on Instagram, TI called Morgan "a real one" for sharing the clip and commented: "Let this man speak for himself to defend his legacy. Don't just listen to one side and expect to find truth. Oh that's right... Dead men can't speak."

He continued: "So what was the point again? Destroy another strong black historical LEGEND?!?! It's several examples of pedophilia in American history... if y'all pulling up our old s**t... we gotta examine ELVIS PRESLEY, HUGH HEPHNER [sic] and a whole slew of others guilty of the same if not more!!! But why us all the time? There's an agenda to destroy OUR CULTURE."

TI's post comes amid the release of the harrowing Leaving Neverland documentary, which has reignited the conversation around Jackson's alleged child sexual abuse thanks to its interviews with Wade Robson and James Safechuck – both of whom claim Jackson raped and sexually abused them as children for several years.

Jackson's estate has denied the claims against him and branded Safechuck and Robson as "liars" and "opportunists".

Former child star Corey Feldman recently backtracked on comments where he defended Jackson, and now says he can "no longer" defend him.

"It comes to a point where as an advocate for victims, as an advocate for changing the statutes of limitations to make sure that victims' voices are heard, it becomes impossible for me to remain virtuous and not at least consider what's being said and not listen to what the victims are saying – this is very important."

Feldman asserted that "absolutely nothing inappropriate" happened between himself and Jackson.