Diana Ross fails to delay Jackson guardianship ruling

Michael Jackson's children (L-R) Blanket, Prince and Paris. Credit: Reuters

Michael Jackson's mother Katherine and nephew TJ will share guardianship of the late singer's three children.

Superior Court Judge Mitchell Beckloff made the ruling after considering letters submitted by singer Diana Ross, who was named in Jackson's will as a potential guardian, and cousins of the singer who all sought a delay in the appointment.

Jackson's cousin Debra and her son Anthony urged Judge Beckloff to delay his ruling, saying they were concerned that the family matriarch Mrs Jackson was being forced into the arrangement.

Mrs Jackson's attorney, Sandra Ribera, disputed claims that her client was being improperly influenced:

Debra and Anthony Jackson declined to talk to reporters after the hearing, only confirming their names and relationship to the family.

Their letter and the one submitted by Diana Ross were not filed with the court and will not be made public, court officials said.

Michael Jackson's mother Katherine and nephew TJ will share guardianship of the late singer's three children. Credit: Reuters

TJ, who performs with his brothers in the band 3T, will share responsibilities with Mrs Jackson, who has cared for Prince, Paris and Blanket since the singer's death three years ago.

He was appointed temporary guardian to the children last month when Mrs Jackson was absent for several days and out of communication.