Michael Jackson Accused of Sexual Abuse in New Lawsuit by His 'Second Family'
A new lawsuit has been filed against Michael Jackson, just as the film Michael begins its nationwide theatrical release. The legal action comes from a family that once described themselves as deeply connected to the late entertainer.
A family once close to Michael Jackson files a lawsuit alleging abuse of four children, detailing claims, past defense, and a disputed financial agreement.
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Dominic and Connie Cascio, along with their five children, allege that four of the children were abused by Jackson. According to the filing, the incidents allegedly took place at Neverland Ranch, during travel, and at tour-related locations.
For years, the Cascio family publicly defended Jackson against similar accusations. They notably appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 2010 and consistently supported his innocence, referring to themselves as his “second family.”
However, reporting from The New York Times indicates that the family had previously raised these claims with Jackson’s estate. A confidential agreement was reportedly reached, involving payments totaling approximately $16 million over five years. When those payments ceased in 2025 and further negotiations failed, the family proceeded with legal action. Their connection to Jackson dates back to when he met Dominic Cascio at a luxury hotel in Manhattan where Jackson frequently stayed.
Responding to the lawsuit, estate attorney Marty Singer dismissed the allegations, describing them as a financial ploy. He emphasized that the family had defended Jackson for more than two decades and labeled the filing an attempt to extract significant sums from the estate.
The family stated that watching the 2019 HBO documentary Leaving Neverland influenced their decision to come forward. They said it helped them reassess their experiences and process past events.
In the complaint, Jackson is described as a “serial child predator,” with accusations spanning more than ten years. The filing claims the alleged victims were subjected to abuse beginning at very young ages and were manipulated through attention, gifts, and access to Jackson’s lifestyle.
Additional allegations include claims of substance use, both by Jackson and involving the children. The lawsuit also details alleged coded language and methods used to conceal the actions, as well as assertions that individuals within Jackson’s professional circle were aware and contributed to covering up the behavior.
The lawsuit further states that the children were instructed on how to respond if questioned by authorities and warned of consequences if the alleged actions were exposed.
These developments emerge as Michael is expected to perform strongly at the box office, potentially setting records for music biopics. Meanwhile, Dan Reed, director of Leaving Neverland, recently commented in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter about public reactions to Jackson’s legacy, suggesting audiences may overlook past controversies.
