Michael Jackson pulled out of a TV comeback performance 24 hours before he was scheduled to perform, citing stage fright.

Michael Jackson is too scared to perform on TV. The 'Thriller' singer - once the self-styled King of Pop - was due to launch his comeback with an appearance on the final of 'American Idol' last week. But just 24 hours before his scheduled performance on the TV talent show he pulled out - reportedly fearing the public's reaction. A source told the Britain's The Sun newspaper: "This was his big chance but he got stage fright. He said, 'I can't do it. Everyone will hate me.' " The 'American Idol' final had a projected TV audience of 27 million viewers. Judge Paula Abdul originally let slip the possibility of a Jackson performance at the final during the run up to it. Simon Fuller, former Spice Girls mastermind, is helping Jackson with the comeback. Other stars to perform on 'American Idol' this season include, Mariah Carey, Leona Lewis, George Michael, Seal, Bryan Adams and Dolly Parton.