Celebrities React to Jackson's Unexpected and Shocking Death

Michael Jackson's sudden death at the age of 50 came as a shock to the world. The news spread quickly over the internet, and stars close to the "King of Pop" were quick to react to his unexpected departure.

Quincy Jones, who worked with Jackson, said: "I am absolutely devastated at this tragic and unexpected news. For Michael to be taken away from us so suddenly at such a young age, I just don't have the words."

His best friend, Uri Geller: "I'm devastated. I just don't want to believe it," he told Usmagazine.com. "He is my best friend. I just can't believe."

Liza Minelli told "Entertainment Tonight": "He was a kind, genuine, and wonderful man. He was also one of the greatest entertainers that ever lived. I loved him very much and I will miss him every remaining day of my life."

Brooke Shields: "My heart is overcome with sadness for the devastating loss of my true friend Michael. He was an extraordinary friend, artist and contributor to the world. I join his family and his fans in celebrating his incredible life and mourning his untimely passing."

Madonna told People magazine: "I can't stop crying over the sad news. I have always admired Michael Jackson. The world has lost one of the greats, but his music will live on forever! My heart goes out to his three children and other members of his family. God bless."

Paula Abdul: "Today we have all lost a legend who has touched each of our lives through his music and showmanship over the past five decades."

Lisa Marie Presley: "I am so very sad and confused with every emotion possible. I am heartbroken for his children, who I know were everything to him, and for his family. This is such a massive loss on so many levels, words fail me."

Cher, speaking with Larry King, said: "I am having a million reactions. When I think of him, I think of this young boy, this teenager I first met … He was a great teenager, optimistic and adorable."

Corey Feldman: "I come to you today with great sadness, acknowledging the loss of the greatest entertainer in the history of mankind. For me he was more than that, he was my idol, he was a role model, he was someone to cry to when my childhood was unbearable, he was a brother, he was a dear friend. Unfortunately Michael and I had a falling out on Septenmber 10th 2001 and that broken friendship had never been repaired … I am filled with tremendous sadness and remorse. All I choose to remember from this point is the good times we shared and what an inspiration he was to me and the rest of the world. Nobody will ever be able to do what Michael Jackson has done in this industry, and he was so close to doing it all again. I am truly, and deeply sorry for all of the heartbroken fans and supporters worldwide."

The music world is mourning his death. It's no secret that the legendary artist inspired many of the big names in pop. They are remembering his talent, not his eccentricity, and what he gave the music world.

Neil Portnow, president of the Recording Academy, said, "Rarely has the world received a gift with the magnitude of artistry, talent, and vision as Michael Jackson. He was a true musical icon."

Britney Spears: "I was so excited to see his show in London. We were going to be on tour in Europe at the same time and I was going to fly in to see him," People reported her as saying. "He has been an inspiration throughout my entire life and I'm devastated he's gone!"

Former NSYNC members Justin Timberlake and JC Chasez have also often praised Jackson and acknowledged his work as their inspiration.

Justin Timberlake wrote on his website: "We have lost a genius and a true ambassador of not only Pop music but of all music. He has been an inspiration to multiple generations and I will always cherish the moments I shared with him on stage and all of the things I learned about music from him and the time we spent together. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones."

In a statement to Us Weekly, Chasez said: "Words can't begin to describe my sadness for the loss of Michael Jackson. I was honored and humbled to have the opportunity to perform with him several times and he had a profound influence on my career. Michael forever changed the world of music and entertainment and I will always remember him for his kind and sweet spirit."

Usher: "May God cover you Michael. We all lift your name up in prayer. I pray for the entire Jackson family particularly Michael's mother, children and all his fans that loved him so much. I would not be the artist, performer, and philanthropist I am today without the influence of Michael. I have great admiration and respect for him and I'm so thankful I had the opportunity to meet and perform with such a great entertainer, who in so many ways, transcended the culture. He broke barriers, he changed radio formats! With music, he made it possible for people like Oprah Winfrey and Barack Obama to impact the mainstream world. His legacy is unparalleled. Michael Jackson will never be forgotten."

Sean Diddy Combs: "Michael Jackson showed me that you can actually see the beat. He made the music come to life!! He made me believe in magic. I will miss him!"

Stars have also gone to their Twitter pages to express their disbelief at the death of their music icon. Here are a few comments made as reported by Usmagazine.com.

Miley Cyrus: "Michael Jackson was my inspiration. love and blessings."

John Mayer: "I think we'll mourn his loss as well as the loss of ourselves as children listening to Thriller on the record player. Dazed in the studio. A major strand of our cultural DNA has left us. RIP MJ."

MC Hammer: "I have no words.. I loved Michael Jackson.. RIP.."

Kelly Rowland: "Michael you left such a legacy on this earth, have touched SO MANY!!! We thank you for such a driving inspiration in music & our lives!! This has got to be one of the saddest days in music history!! Michael Rest In Peace! WE miss you!"

Ludacris: "If it were not for Micheal Jackson I would not be where or who I am today.His Music and Legacy will live on Forever.Prayers to the famR.I.P."

Ice T: "Rest In Peace Mike. People can say what they want but you were 100% original. WE will always love , miss & remember your GREATNESS."

Wyclef Jean: "music god. he made me believe that all things are possible and through positive music he will live forever."