Ross ready to step up for Michael’s kids
August 6 2012 at 12:13pm
In this February 12, 2012 file photo, singer Diana Ross
arrives at the 54th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles. Ross, who was named by
the late Michael Jackson as a potential guardian for his children, says that
issues affecting his children should remain private. Photo: Chris Pizzello
London - Diana Ross is willing to take over guardianship
of Michael Jackson's children.
The Motown legend was named as a back-up guardian for
Prince Michael, Paris and 'Blanket' in their late father's will and although
they are now under the shared custody of their grandmother Katherine and cousin
Tito Joe 'TJ' Jackson, she has made it clear she will step in and care for her
godchildren if needed.
A family member who was present during Diana's recent
visit to see the kids told the New York Post newspaper: "For the first time,
Ross said she was willing to step in 'if needed'. She had never spoken like that
before.
"Whether she wanted to be listed as guardian or not,
she's not going to abdicate any authority.
"After the recent drama of Katherine losing and then
regaining guardianship, Diana wanted to make sure the children were fine and
travelled to see them in person in Calabasas, California.
The source added: "[After Michael's death in 2009, Diana
would phone the kids to see] if they needed advice or anything else. But last
week, she wanted to meet with the children in person to make sure she heard all
the right things. Things you can't easily detect on the telephone, like body
language."
Diana, 68, also made Paris, 14, promise to call her if
she or her brothers ever need her help.
According to the source, Diana left the warring Jackson
family with the message "mess with Michael's kids, and you're messing with her".
Diana was also anxious to ensure Katherine, 82, is coping
with her responsibilities and many of the Jackson family members would welcome
her taking over.
The insider added: "It wasn't just Michael who loved her
- we all do. His kids like her a lot. Who wouldn't? She's Miss Ross!" - Bang
Showbiz
