But Jackson's emaciated figure, wan complexion and erratic behavior during the announcement — he repeatedly told the audience members he loved them, before pumping his fists, striking a catwalk pose and disappearing behind a curtain — led to speculation that his health would prevent him from completing the marathon residency. More recently, British tabloids suggested the singer had skin cancer. (Watch TIME's video "Appreciating Michael Jackson, the Musician.") In May, AEG Live CEO Randy Phillips dismissed those worries in an interview with Billboard. "Michael's in incredible physical shape, he's got tremendous stamina, he's been working out aerobically preparing for this, and he is totally engaged," he said. Phillips also claimed that AEG was well insured for the event because Jackson had passed a physical "with flying colors." But in its March issue, London-based Reinsurance magazine reported that the city's insurers were skeptical that Michael would make it all the way through: no insurer was willing to cover all the concert dates, and AEG could arrange a policy only for the first 10 concerts. The magazine added that AEG would face a liability of $492 million if the series were to be canceled. (See pictures of Michael Jackson's live performances on LIFE.com.) As of Friday afternoon, AEG had not responded to queries regarding its insurance coverage. "We're dealing with a tragedy. We have no comment on that," an unnamed company spokesman told the Los Angeles Times. And as for refunds, AEG announced that ticket refund informaion would be released early next week. But right now, Jackson's fans are focused on their mourning, not their money. "I haven't even thought about the money," says Luke Fletcher, 27, who lives in London. Fletcher says he has been in constant communication with friends since Jackson's death and is just trying to remain positive: "Michael will be remembered for his music now, and all of the controversy will be forgotten." It's a different kind of comeback, but maybe an even better one.