When Michael Jackson makes his trimphant return/farewell with a series of concerts at London's O2 Arena, he plans to make quite an entrance. Mirror.co.uk reported today that the singer intends to "ride out on an African elephant with panthers led on gold chains. Parrots and other birds will fly behind him."

These plans, which are unconfirmed, have already led to condemnation from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. PETA released a statement calling Jackson's alleged intentions irresponsible, and citing his mistreatment of exotic pets: "Michael Jackson gave away his chimpanzee, and left giraffes, elephants and other animals in appalling, cramped conditions when he vacated the Neverland Ranch. These exotic animals belong in Africa, not the O2 Arena among screaming fans, bright lights and stage explosions. These wild animals are deprived of everything that is natural and important to them when they are forced to perform under stressful conditions. Michael needs to learn to leave exotic animals alone."