The day the 'King of Pop' visited Exeter City FC
Michael Jackson made an appearance at the club on June 14, 2002
Last updated 27th Apr 2022
As Exeter City celebrate their promotion to League One, we look back on Michael Jackson's visit to the football club nearly 20 years ago.
The 'King of Pop' made an appearance to the Grecian's home ground as a favour to his friend Uri Geller, who was co-chairman of the club at the time.
Geller hoped Jackson's visit would raise funds for Exeter City. He agreed, as long as they could split the money raised, for it to go towards two charities: Children with Aids and Support for Africa.
On the day, he made a speech at St James Park: "We live in a state of fear. Every day we hear of war: on the news; on the radio and television; in the newspapers; always of war.
"We hear of nations hurting each other; of neighbours hurting each other; of families hurting each other; and of children killing each other. We must learn to live and love each other before it's too late.
"We have to stop the prejudice; we have to stop the hating; we have to stop living in fear of our own neighbours."
Uri Geller became involved with Exeter City by placing "energy infused" crystals behind the goals at their ground, to help them win a crucial end-of-season game. They ended up losing the game 5-1.
The Israeli-British illusionist and TV personality has since severed ties with club.
Michael Jackson at Exeter City FC
Pop legend Michael Jackson attends a fundraising event in aid of Children with Aids and Support for Africa at Exeter Football Club at St James Park, Exeter
Security at St James Park, as Michael Jackson visits
Children with Aids and Support for Africa Fundraiser Event - Exeter City Football Club - St James Park
Michael Jackson at St James Park
Pop legend Michael Jackson runs to the stage during a fundraising event in aid of Children with Aids and Support for Africa at Exeter Football Club at St James Park, Exeter