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SALT LAKE CITY -- It's been a little less than two weeks since Michael Jackson's death. Since then, the "King of Pop" has been almost inescapable in the media.
While many are still mourning his death, others say they're certainly sad to see Jackson go but enough already.
"It's too much, too overblown," Utahn Darin Ross said.
Anna Brozek, who also lives in Utah, agreed.
"I do think the excessive coverage is just that. It's completely excessive," she said.
While the star is gone, he's back on top of the charts: somewhere he hasn't been in years.
Robert Avery, a communications professor with the University of Utah, has a theory why.
"It's truly a symbiotic relationship. There's no question that the media is providing the coverage because the audience wants it," Avery said.
The coverage of Michael Jackson has been largely positive. Some, but not a lot, has been said about Jackson's molestation charge or the multi-million dollar settlement of a civil suit filed against him.
Avery said that's because there isn't the desire right now to go to the dark side. He argues Jackson's sometimes wacky behavior may have fueled his worldwide reach.
"He spans multiple generations," Avery said. "He's recognized as a phenomenal talent. At the same time, he is a bit of a bizarre individual."
Along with Jackson came the intrigue, talent, money, celebrity; but some would add to that sheer genius.
Jackson fan Doug Tourney said, "His ability to dance and create music is unparalleled for his generation and who he was."
"I am appreciative of his music, for sure. It's hard not to be. I grew up in the '80s," Brozek said.
The news coverage may be in overdrive, but even those who aren't diehard fans say, he was a thrill to watch.
E-mail: lprichard@ksl.com
