Media Handling Of Jackson Death In Eye Of Beholder

WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA) -- Crowds visiting the Newseum in Washington Friday could look over the front pages of newspapers from all 50 states and 30 foreign countries to assess how the media is handling the death of Michael Jackson.

"I'd like to see a little more respect," complained Nicole Redus of Cincinnati who said there was too much emphasis on Jackson's recent history, including his acquittal of child molestation charges in 2003.

Others called the volume of coverage "overwhelming." Some prefer to separate the media from Jackson's music.

"I really think he was a great person of the world because the music will last forever," said Barbara Holland of Washington DC.

Other observers called the coverage ironic.

"The media was quick to crucify Jackson five years ago at his trail," said Adam Froemming of Washington DC, "and now they're anointing him an hero and and American legend."