Michael Jackson’s ‘second family’ files lawsuit accusing him of sexually abusing four children
The Casios family, once described as Michael Jackson’s second family, have filed a lawsuit alleging years of sexual abuse. The case reignites the investigation into the singer as his biopic Michael reaches theaters.
As michael Arrives in theaters A family that was once considered one of Michael Jackson’s closest confidants has filed a new lawsuit accusing the late singer of sexual abuse. Dominic and Connie Cascio, along with their five children, have come forward in the case, saying the four children were abused at Neverland Ranch during tour stops and family visits.
in an interview with the new York TimesEdward Dominic and Alfonso Cascio described the abuse they suffered as children, along with their sister Marie-Nicole Porte, during the years when their family was extremely close to Michael. The family remained close to him for decades and he maintained his innocence in several media appearances before making new allegations.
Foundation of the “second family”
- 1980s: a chance encounter
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The decades-long bond began when Dominic Cascio Sr. met the pop icon while working as a manager at a luxury Manhattan hotel. Michael became a frequent guest, eventually integrating the Cascio family into his inner circle.
- 1990s–2000s: Life in Neverland
The Cassios became so close to the singer that they are often referred to as his “second family”. During this period, the children – including Edward Dominic, Alfonso, and Marie-Nicole Porte – frequently stayed at Neverland Ranch, joined Jackson on global tours, and accompanied him on private family trips.
Public defense and secret allegations
- 2010: Public display of loyalty
After Michael’s death, the family appeared on Oprah Winfrey’s talk show. She vocally defended the singer against growing allegations of abuse, affirming his innocence and her positive experiences with him.
- Turning Point of 2019: Leaving Neverland
family watches hbo documentary leaving neverland. He later said that the film served as a catalyst for his “deprogramming”, helping him re-evaluate his childhood experiences and begin to process perceived trauma.
- Secret $16 million settlement
As reported, the family privately contacted the Jackson estate with abuse allegations the new York Times. A confidential settlement was reached, in which the estate reportedly agreed to pay the family approximately $16 million over a five-year period.
breakdown and legal rise
- 2025: talks fail
Structured payments ended with the 2019 agreement. A new round of negotiations between the Casios and the estate fails to reach a solution, setting the stage for a public legal confrontation.
- April 2026: A bombshell lawsuit
At the time of the theatrical release of the film based on the singer’s life, the family filed a formal lawsuit.
- Allegations: The lawsuit labels Michael as a “serial child predator” who used “Jesus Juice” (alcohol) and “Disney Juice” (alcohol) to groom and attack children.
- Cover-up: The filing claims Michael’s staff, doctors and lawyers “aided and abetted” the abuse by concealing it for decades.
Present day: wealth strikes back
Estate attorney Marty Singer dismissed the filing as a “transparent forum-shopping strategy” and a “money grab.” With this, director Dan Reed created controversy hollywood reporterCriticizing the public’s ability to ignore these allegations in favor of “jukebox movies”.
michaelThe biopic on the late pop singer was released on April 24. Michael’s nephew Jafar Jackson plays the lead role in the musical drama.
The film is directed by Antoine Fuqua and co-produced by Graham King, John Branca and John McClain.