Jackson called a ‘wonderful humanitarian’

Austrian tribute honors late singer’s charity work

Hans Punz / AP

Jermaine Jackson says his later brother, Michael, was a "wonderful humanitarian" who considered it important to help others.

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updated 3:04 p.m. ET July 24, 2009

VIENNA - Michael Jackson was a "wonderful humanitarian" who considered it important to reach out and help others, his brother said Friday.

Jermaine Jackson also said the King of Pop's "whole existence" was to find the good in everyone and described his unexpected death on June 25 at age 50 as a "tragic loss."

"As much as my brother achieved in the music industry, he was a wonderful human being and a wonderful humanitarian," Jackson said.

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"My brother, he was well-versed in just knowing what was most important and that's giving back ... to make the world a much better place."

Jackson said his brother donated the proceeds of many of his concert tours to charity and said there were "pages and pages and pages" filled with examples of his humanitarian work.

Jackson spoke at a news conference in the Austrian capital just hours before he was to attend a gala paying tribute to Michael Jackson's charity efforts.

Others to be honored include sprinter Carl Lewis, whose foundation supports underprivileged children.

Lewis said Michael Jackson had "done so much for children" and would be remembered forever.

Actress Andie MacDowell, who will host the evening event, said she has admired Michael Jackson since she was young.

"I have been a huge fan of Michael Jackson's since I was a child and had posters of all the Jacksons on my wall — I just feel very honored to facilitate and participate at these awards," she said.