Michael Jackson plans Potter passes

U.S. pop star Michael Jackson gestures during a news conference at the O2 Arena in London March 5, 2009. Jackson said he will hold a series of final concerts in Britain later in the year. [Agencies]

Michael Jackson has invited stars of the 'Harry Potter' films to the opening night of his 'This Is It' shows.

The three main stars from the wizard franchise - Daniel Radcliffe, 19, Emma Watson, 18, and Rupert Grint, 20 - have reportedly been offered access all areas passes for the start of Michael's 'This Is It' farewell residency at London's O2 arena on July 8.

A source told Britain's The Sun newspaper: "Michael is a huge fan of the 'Harry Potter' books and films.

"He was utterly enchanted by the magic of JK Rowling's novels and owns all the movies and he has bought memorabilia for his collection."

Michael is said to be such a big 'Harry Potter' fan he owns a first edition copy of JK Rowling's debut novel 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone', which is worth around ￡10,000.

Meanwhile, it has been revealed Michael will travel to each show on a boat, because he is afraid of helicopters and doesn't like to publicly ride in cars.

A source told Britain's Daily Mirror newspaper: "He loves the idea of turning up by boat - he thinks it's much more glamorous and very James Bond."

Around 750,000 tickets for Michael's record-breaking 50 shows at the O2 arena sold out in a single morning earlier this month.

Tickets are so sought after, superstar soccer player David Beckham has reportedly even resorted to phoning up and using his status to ask for passes.