Michael Jackson converts to Islam

LONDON: Troubled pop star Michael Jackson has converted to Islam and changed his name to Mikaeel.

Thesun.co.uk reports that Jackson, 50, was dressed in the Islamic garb as he pledged his allegiance to the Koran at a friend's house in Los Angeles. He sat on the floor as an Imam was called to officiate the ceremony. 

Jackson, who was raised a Jehovah's Witness, decided to convert after discussing religion with a music producer and songwriter on his new album -- both of them converts to Islam.

"They began talking to him about their beliefs and how they thought they had become better people after they converted. Michael soon began warming to the idea. An Imam was summoned, and Michael went through the shahada, which is the Muslim declaration of belief," a source was quoted as saying.

Mikaeel is the name of one of Allah's angels.