Jacko gives rare interview

Michael Jackson has given a rare interview after years of silence.

The 49-year-old has appeared on the front cover of a US magazine to mark the 25th anniversary of his best-selling album Thriller.

The notoriously shy superstar has tried to stay out of the limelight after his child molestation trial in 2005, where he was acquitted.

Harriette Cole, creative director for the magazine has dubbed the star as "normal" after spending a day with the singer.

She said: "He's 49. He's a grown-up. If you learn from your challenges, then you become stronger. He certainly seemed like that."

The father-of-three revealed he has been working in the studio daily but did not say whether he was working on a new album.

But rapper Kanye West has already revealed he will be teaming up with Jacko on his comeback album.

And it has been confirmed that the pop star has drafted in Black Eyed Peas frontman will.i.am and R&B star Ne-Yo for collaborations.

The album is thought to have a contemporary sound and is rumoured to have a release date in early 2008.

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