Travis Payne's testimony

Michael and Travis during filming for 'This Is It' June 2009



Under cross examination, choreographer Travis Payne acknowledged that some of Michael's behaviour, including grogginess, lethargy, insomnia and occasional paranoia, were possible symptoms of prescription drug abuse. He also said that despite testifying earlier that he worked with Michael one-on-one five days a week, he couldn't recall how many rehearsals the singer actually attended. Payne had also expressed his concerns to 'This Is It' director Kenny Ortega.

Some of the behaviour occurred after Michael's visits with dermatologist Dr. Arnold Klein, who Payne believed was performing cosmetic treatments on the singer so he would be comfortable performing onstage again.

"Sometimes in rehearsal, Michael would appear just a little loopy," Payne said, adding that the singer appeared to be "assisted or under the influence of something."

Michael was struggling to get into shape for the shows, and Payne said his voice coach suggested using a voice track for fast-paced songs until the singer's stamina improved.

He said Michael wanted to use a teleprompter during the shows as "extra security," but it was an aid the performer had not used in his two previous tours.

"You could sense that something was wrong, you just didn't know what it was?" plaintiff's attorney Brian Panish asked. Yes, Payne replied.

The choreographer had remained composed throughout most of his testimony, occasionally smiling and politely trying to answer questions. But after several hours of testy exchanges with Panish, his voice quivered and he dabbed his eyes with a tissue.

"I don't have a dog in this race," Payne said at one point. "I'm just trying to have a conversation with you and tell the truth."
 

So, here is another long-term colleague who raised concerns - that takes the count to five. Five people who independently raised concerns either to Kenny Ortegea, or Randy Phillips. Some said they thought Michael was taking something, others actually spelled it out and said Michael might die.
Yet AEG are still trying to convince us that they didn't know anything was wrong.