Dozens of radio stations in New Zealand and Canada have removed Michael Jackson's music from their playlists following the airing of the documentary Leaving Neverland, which details allegations that the late singer sexually abused two men when they were children.
In New Zealand, state-owned RNZ and major commercial broadcasters MediaWorks and NZME have all stopped playing Jackson's hits. MediaWorks confirmed the removal, citing audience preferences, while NZME's director Dean Buchanan stated that Jackson currently does not feature on their playlists. RNZ said it applies editorial judgment to music choices, noting that Jackson does not currently feature unless as part of a news story.
In Canada, three major Montreal stations owned by Cogeco—CKOI, Rythme, and The Beat—pulled Jackson's music on Monday morning, along with 23 smaller stations. Spokeswoman Christine Dicaire said the decision was a response to listener reactions to the documentary.
Other broadcasters, including the BBC, have denied reports of a ban, stating that each piece of music is considered on its merits. The documentary, which aired on HBO on Sunday, features accusations from two men who previously denied abuse. Jackson's estate has criticised the film as an exploitation attempt, while fans have reportedly threatened the director and the accusers.
