Janet Jackson’s Surprise Appearance at BET Awards

For the first time since her brother Michael’s death last Thursday, Janet Jackson appeared and spoke at the BET Awards on Sunday night in Los Angeles.

She said “My entire family wanted to be here tonight, but it was just too painful so they elected me to speak with all of you. I would just like to say that to you, Michael is an icon. To us, Michael is family, and he will forever live in all of our hearts.”

“On behalf of my family and myself, thank you for all your love; thank you for all your support,” then just holding back tears she went on to say “We miss him so much.”

As she left the stage Jamie Foxx, Stevie Wonder and Ne-Yo performed their rendition of the Jackson 5 song “I’ll Be There”.

Many other artists attending the awards paid tribute to the late “King of Pop” by singing his songs on stage. Ne-Yo sang “The Lady In My Life” while Ciara did ‘Heal the World”.

Michael Jackson died at 50 years-old last Thursday of cardiac arrest in his home in Los Angeles.

No funeral arrangements have been announced yet.