Michael Jackson announces last UK shows

U.S. pop star Michael Jackson gestures during a news conference at the O2 Arena in London.[Agencies]

Michael Jackson has announced his "last ever" London shows.

The singer kept thousands of fans waiting for several hours before taking to the stage in the UK capital's O2 arena today (05.03.09) to confirm a 10-night residency at the venue in July.

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Appearing on stage for around three minutes, Michael - clad in a black military style jacket and sunglasses - said: "This is it. I just want to say that these will be my final show performances in London.

"I love you so much. This will be it. When I say this is it, it really means this is it. I'll be performing the songs my fans want to hear. This is the final curtain call."

Prior to appearing on stage, British TV presenter Dermot O'Leary had introduced a short video clip of the 50-year-old 'Thriller' star's biggest hits, which was met by rapturous cheers from the fans who had flocked to get a glimpse of their idol.

It was not made clear if Michael, 50, plans to take his stage show anywhere else when his London residency ends.

Tickets for the shows - which open on July 8 - go on sale on March 13 priced between ￡50 and ￡75.

A website, www.MichaelJacksonLive.com, where fans can register for a pre-sale crashed within an hour of the announcement.