Jackson's life was documented mercilessly on television, though he seemed to become less comfortable with his exposure as years passed. His life on the small screen began with his child stardom in the Jackson 5, peaked during his chart-topping musical career and culminated in surgery rumors, health problems, child molestation charges and generally odd behavior. He may have charted some unknown, controversial and even downright creepy territory in his later years, but separating his bizarre personal life from his performance career, it's impossible to deny his genius. Everything from his lyrics to his beats to his costumes to his choreography set him apart from all other musicians. Screeches, white socks, single gloves and the moonwalk are among his many contributions to pop culture.

As television fans, we'll especially miss his music videos, which revolutionized the genre. The light-up cement blocks in "Billie Jean," the bar fight in "You Rock My World," the monster mash in "Thriller," the West Side Story-dance in "Beat It" -- without these videos, the songs would have rocked, but not rolled. Each one was an extended glimpse into his musical mind, and it was a brilliant one. Not many artists are able to put their music to images, but MJ was the King of Pop because of it. He changed music television, and music television made him a legend.

Michael Jackson's life was defined by television, for better and for worse. Television was both his personal artistic canvas and the world's voyeuristic window into the short life of a tragic, complex, talented individual.

Michael Jackson

The sudden death of icon Michael Jackson stunned the world.

The superstar’s life was nothing short of a ‘Thriller,’ and regardless of his troubles later in life, Michael Jackson, the Legend, meant something to everyone.

A Round-up of Quotes from the Famous Folks:

“I can’t stop crying, this is too sudden and shocking. I am unable to imagine this. My heart is hurting. I am in prayer for his kids and the family.”~Diana Ross

“I am shocked and saddened by Michael’s passing. I, along with his millions of fans, looked forward to seeing him tour one more time. Now, may he rest in peace.”~Tina Turner

“He is emotionally distraught and chooses to be quiet right now.”~Stevie Wonder’s rep

“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.”~Madonna

“Dame Elizabeth Taylor is too devastated by the passing of her dear friend Michael Jackson to issue a statement at this time.”~Elizabeth Taylor’s rep

“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.”~Lisa Marie Presley, who was married to Michael Jackson from 1994 to 1996

“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.”~Brooke Shields

“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.”~Liza Minelli to ET

“Just as there will never be another Fred Astaire or Chuck Berry or Elvis Presley, there will never be anyone comparable to Michael Jackson. His talent, his wonderment and his mystery make him legend.”~Steven Spielberg to EW

“When we worked together on ‘Bad,’ I was in awe of his absolute mastery of movement on the one hand, and of the music on the other. Every step he took was absolutely precise and fluid at the same time. It was like watching quicksilver in motion.”~Martin Scorsese

“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.”~Quincy Jones

“The incomparable Michael Jackson has made a bigger impact on music than any other artist in the history of music. He was magic. He was what we all strive to be…. I love you Michael.”~Beyonce

“I can’t find the words right now to express how deeply saddened I am by Michael’s passing. We have lost a genius and a true ambassador of not only Pop music but of all music.”~Justin Timberlake on his Web site

“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.”~Usher

“Music God. He made me believe that all things are possible and through positive music he will live forever.”~Wycleaf Jean

“Michael Jackson was my inspiration. Love and blessings.”~Miley Cyrus

“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. He has been an inspiration throughout my entire life and I’m devastated he’s gone!”~Britney Spears to US Weekly