Michael Jackson’s sons, Prince and Bigi, reportedly want their late father’s famous Neverland Ranch to once again become a place where sick and underprivileged children can find happiness. The brothers hope the sprawling California estate will be preserved in a way that reflects the King of Pop’s original vision of creating a magical retreat for children.“They’d love to see the property preserved and used in a way that honors what Michael originally wanted it to be,” a source close to the Jackson family told Page Six.The insider said Neverland holds a special place in the brothers’ hearts because of the memories they made there while growing up. While Prince would particularly welcome a charitable purpose for the estate, Bigi reportedly prefers that it remain away from the spotlight rather than becoming a major tourist attraction.
Prince Jackson hopes Neverland can support charitable causes
Prince, 29, has continued to embrace his father’s philanthropic legacy through his own charity work. He co-founded the Heal Los Angeles Foundation in 2016 while studying at Loyola Marymount University.The organisation works with children and families in underserved Los Angeles communities, focusing on education, wellness and providing support to those in need. Its initiatives include a partnership with Loreto Elementary School in northeast Los Angeles, along with food and toy drives for disadvantaged families.The foundation says its work is inspired by Michael Jackson’s humanitarian legacy and his belief in giving children opportunities to succeed.“Prince really appreciates the history of Neverland and would love to see it have a charitable purpose again, especially when it comes to helping sick and underprivileged children,” the source told Page Six.“Given how involved he’s been in charity work himself, it’s something that’s particularly meaningful to him.”
Michael Jackson regularly hosted children and families at Neverland, including groups supported by charitable organisations such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation. (Photo: Instagram)
Bigi, formerly known as Blanket, is said to have a different approach to the property’s future. According to the insider, he is more private and would not want Neverland to turn into a large tourist attraction. However, he would support efforts to bring back the happiness the estate once offered children.“Bigi is much more private and would prefer that Neverland not become some big tourist attraction, but that doesn’t mean he wouldn’t support finding a way to bring some of that magic back for children who could really benefit from it,” the source explained.The insider added that both brothers want their father’s original vision to be respected.“At the end of the day, they want their father’s legacy respected, and they know how much it meant to him to create a place where kids could just be kids and forget about whatever difficulties they were going through.”
Who owns Neverland Ranch after Michael Jackson’s death?
Businessman Ron Burkle purchased Neverland Ranch for approximately $22 million in 2020 and has said he welcomes charitable events at his private residences. (Photo: Instagram)
Despite their emotional connection to the estate, Prince and Bigi do not own Neverland or have control over its future. Businessman Ron Burkle purchased the property for approximately $22 million in 2020.A spokesperson for Burkle told Page Six that the businessman respects the estate’s history and the importance it holds for the Jackson family.“Since acquiring the property, he has welcomed Michael’s children and family to spend time there whenever they wish, recognizing the personal connection they have to the home,” the spokesperson said.The statement also pointed to Burkle’s history of making his private residences available for charitable events, including properties in Palm Springs, La Jolla and Green Acres.“While Neverland remains a private residence, Ron continues to welcome opportunities to host charitable events there,” the spokesperson added.
Michael Jackson created Neverland as a magical retreat for children
Neverland Ranch was transformed by Michael Jackson into a fantasy-like retreat featuring amusement rides, a train station, a movie theatre and a zoo. (Photo: Instagram)
Michael Jackson purchased the 2,700-acre estate in Los Olivos, California, in 1988 and named it after the fictional Neverland from Peter Pan. He transformed the property into an elaborate retreat featuring amusement park rides, a train station, a movie theatre and a zoo.The singer frequently welcomed children and their families to the estate, offering them a chance to enjoy its attractions and take a break from their everyday challenges.In 1993, Michael hosted nine families through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. According to the charity’s account, he personally greeted the visitors and showed them around the property. The families enjoyed arcade games, a screening of Aladdin, a barbecue and carnival rides.Neverland also hosted a holiday celebration in December 2004, when around 200 children were invited to enjoy amusement rides, animals, popcorn, candy canes and a visit from Santa Claus. Michael surprised the youngsters with a personal appearance.His spokesperson said at the time that charitable and civic organisations brought groups of children to the ranch at least three times a month.The estate was also used for fundraising. In September 2003, Michael hosted an event benefiting organisations including the Make-A-Wish Foundation and a Brazilian charity that provided food, clothing and medical assistance to children living in poverty.Neverland was listed for $100 million in 2015 before its asking price was reduced several times. Burkle eventually purchased it in 2020.Michael Jackson died in Los Angeles in June 2009 at the age of 50. His sons’ reported hopes for Neverland underline their desire to preserve the charitable spirit behind one of the most recognisable properties associated with the late singer.
