Does This Michael Jackson Cartoon Cross the Line?

'MIKE LUCKOVICH' (Atlanta Journal Constitution)
There've been cartoons of tribute (spotlights, moonwalk moves and single sequinned gloves). We've seen cartoons of snarkiness. But perhaps none has been immediately more of a visual lightning rod than Mike Luckovich's response to Michael Jackson's death (a cartoon that 'Riffs linked to this morning).
The Atlanta Journal Constitution cartoonist says he's gotten his share of feedback. "Quite a bit," Luckovich tells Comic Riffs. "It's been kind of fun."
So what you do think, cartoon connoisseurs? Is Luckovich on the money, or do you disagree with his commentary? You're invited to vote below.
THE RELATED READ:
THE 'RIFFS INTERVIEW: Mike Luckovich on caricaturing Obama.
By Michael Cavna |
June 26, 2009; 6:00 PM ET
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Posted by: Vosora | June 26, 2009 8:23 PM
Brilliantly done. If you think this cartoon crosses the line, just visit *any* USEnet discussion group and see the polarization for yourself.
Posted by: pltrgyst | June 26, 2009 11:28 PM
Oh, I get it! This has nothing to do with Michael Jackson! It has to do with the prophetic talents of the cartoonist himself, Michael Luckovich! I can sooo see this same panel used on the day of his funeral beside his casket! Brilliant!
Posted by: admin13 | June 27, 2009 3:10 AM
Just a quick question. I think today's Bizzaro appears very funny, but I simply can't figure out the intials. Makes me feel really stupid! Help and thanks.
Posted by: Oldbroad | June 27, 2009 8:58 AM
What Would Cheney Do? a riff on the evangelical Christian slogan "What Would Jesus Do"?
Posted by: Vosora | June 27, 2009 10:43 AM
If there is a St Peter or a Satan I don't think they'd have to flip a coin. St Peter is allegedly all knowing or Satan would have the contract.
Posted by: jimbo1949 | June 27, 2009 11:13 AM
Very well done. It accurately portrays how the people feel about Michael Jackson. Many believe he was a genius, many believe he had some serious psych issues and may have abused kids. This is what political cartoons need to do.
Posted by: sandart | June 29, 2009 9:55 PM
The comments to this entry are closed.

Comic Riffs is a blog devoted to the comics fan. Come in, sit down and put your feet up as we celebrate, contemplate, eviscerate and pontificate on cartoons.
I thought this was brilliant.
It captures the division that I have seen in discussions about MJ -- was he a genius musician who deserves all the acclaim he receives? Or was he a twisted soul who may or may not have crossed the line of acceptable behavior? Which public image weighs heavier on the scales of public judgment? His gift of music that made so many people happy? Or his clearly tortured self-image, self-mutilation, and admitted enjoyment of sleeping with boys?
Ultimately, it's not mine to judge ... leave it to the Powers to decide, even if they have to flip a coin to do so.