Michael Jackson To Rival "Idol"?

November 13, 2007 7:30 a.m. EST

Sally Grover - Celebrity News Service News Writer
Los Angeles, CA (CNS) - Michael Jackson is planning to launch his own US talent show.
The troubled singer - who is reportedly close to losing his Neverland Ranch because of massive debts - is set to team up with 52-year-old brother Jermaine, 78-year-old dad Joe and Oscar-winning actor Jamie Foxx to front a series to rival Simon Cowell's "American Idol".

A source close to the family said, "Michael has seen how big 'American Idol' has become, but knows that by teaming up with his family and high-flying friends he can do even better."
The 49-year-old pop superstar is set to appear as a mentor on Cowell's UK talent show :The X Factor" in December.

Cowell said recently, "I got a call from his people saying he really likes the show and would love to be a part of it."
The proposed appearance will be Jackson's first on British TV since the hugely controversial Martin Bashir documentary - "Living with Michael Jackson: A Tonight Special" in 2003.