Michael Jackson’s children are to tour the world as The Jackson Three

Michael Jackson’s children are to tour the world as The Jackson Three: The late pop star’s father Joe Jackson – who managed the Jackson Five, the group that launched Michael’s glittering music career - has reportedly lined up Prince Michael I, 12, Paris, 11, and seven-year-old Prince Michael II to perform at a series of concerts next year.

Michael’s unofficial biographer Ian Halperin said: “Joe wants the children to go on a world tour in 2010. He has already offered recording contracts to two of Michael’s kids. Now he is talking about getting them the world’s best backing band and taking them on tour as The Jackson Three.”

However, the rest of the ‘Thriller’ singer’s family are reportedly furious about the idea and claim Joe, 79, is trying to exploit the grieving youngsters.

Ian added to Britain’s The Sun newspaper: “One of the family members is livid. He is saying Joe seems intent to do this no matter what. He wants to exploit the kids the same way he did Michael.”

Yesterday (12.07.09) it was reported Michael’s mother Katherine was in secret talks with her son’s ex-wife Debbie Rowe to exclude Joe from the children’s lives.

A custody hearing which was due to take place today has been rescheduled for July 20 to allow the women time to come to an agreement which will reportedly see Katherine - who has been granted temporary custody of the three children - raising them at the family home in Encino, California, with frequent visits from Debbie.

Meanwhile, British singer Leona Lewis has been lined up to perform at a tribute show for the late ‘King of Pop’ at London’s O2 arena.

The ‘Bleeding Love’ star is expected to join R’n’B singer Usher and ‘SexyBack’ hitmaker Justin Timberlake at the tribute show with plans being finalised by concert promoters AEG Live.

A source said: “Executives want to stage a touching tribute to Michael and think The O2 would be a fitting location.

“It will be a celebration of Michael’s life through his music. Huge stars such as Leona, Usher and Justin have expressed enthusiasm about the project. The producers want to avoid a sombre memorial tone and intend the evening to be a joyful event.”

Michael was due to start his record-breaking 50-date ‘This Is It’ residency at the venue next