When you hear the phrase “10 things Michael,” you probably think of the King of Pop’s biggest hits, iconic dance moves, and legendary music videos. But the pop icon was also a dreamer with a laundry list of bold ideas that never materialized. From buying a famous skeleton to planning a giant robot, the following roundup reveals the ten near‑misses that would have added even more sparkle to Michael’s already dazzling legacy.

10 Things Michael: A Glimpse Into What Could Have Been

10 He Almost Bought The Skeleton Of The Elephant Man

For those who haven’t met the infamous Elephant Man, his real name was Joseph Carey Merrick, a man whose bone and skull growths gave him a strikingly unusual appearance. Born on August 5, 1862, Merrick lived a fairly ordinary childhood until the age of five, when strange growths began to surface on his body. To make ends meet, he eventually joined the ranks of travelling “freak shows,” displaying himself for a fee until a compassionate doctor rescued him and placed him in the London Hospital, where he remained until his death on April 11, 1890.

After his passing, Merrick’s skeleton was housed at the London Hospital Medical College. The macabre relic caught Michael’s curiosity; he visited the hospital twice solely to gaze at the bones. Inspired, he submitted a formal bid to purchase the skeleton, only to be rebuffed when the college insisted the remains were not for sale. Undeterred, Michael doubled his initial offer, proposing a staggering $1 million for the historic bones, yet the college held firm, leaving the King of Pop’s dream unfulfilled.

9 He Almost Bought Marvel Comics So He Could Play Spider‑Man

Michael’s fascination with the web‑slinging superhero was no secret. Rather than merely collecting the comics, he envisioned actually stepping into the role on the big screen. To that end, he hatched a plan to purchase Marvel Comics alongside legendary writer Stan Lee, hoping that ownership would give him a direct line to the film rights.

During a conversation with Lee, Michael expressed his desire to star as Spider‑Man, assuming Lee could smooth the path to the movie’s green light. Lee, however, clarified that the actual rights lay with Marvel itself, not with him. While it’s possible Michael only aimed to produce a Spider‑Man film without starring, Lee believes the King of Pop’s ultimate goal was to don the iconic costume himself.

8 He Almost Created A Giant Robot Version Of Himself

Before the ill‑fated world tour, Michael had already imagined an earlier spectacle in Las Vegas. The plan, conceived in October 2005, called for a colossal 15‑meter‑tall robot—about 50 feet—moonwalking across the Nevada desert. The towering doppelgänger would have been visible from McCarran International Airport, announcing the arrival of a Michael‑themed extravaganza to anyone flying in.

Sketches of the massive automaton were drawn, and Michael approved the designs. Unfortunately, the budget fell short, and the robot never left the drawing board. The concept was later scaled down to a smaller robot intended to guard the entrance of a Michael‑themed hotel and casino, but financial constraints again stalled the project, and the concert itself was eventually canceled.

7 He Almost Starred As Jar Jar Binks

Imagine a galaxy far, far away with Michael Jackson as the clumsy Gungan Jar Jar Binks. In reality, Michael was in contention for the role in *Star Wars: Episode I—The Phantom Menace*. The snag? Michael insisted on using prosthetic makeup and practical effects, whereas director George Lucas preferred a fully CGI character.

The part ultimately went to Ahmed Best, who embraced the digital approach without hesitation. Best later disclosed that he never realized Michael had been a contender until Lucas introduced him to the King of Pop as “Jar Jar” during a concert. The revelation sparked a backstage conversation that confirmed Michael’s brief flirtation with the role.

6 He Wanted The Lead Role In Charlie And The Chocolate Factory

When the 2005 adaptation of *Charlie and the Chocolate Factory* entered pre‑production, Michael set his sights on the coveted role of Willy Wonka. Eager to prove his musical prowess, he quickly crafted a soundtrack and offered it to Warner Brothers in exchange for the starring part.

Warner Brothers loved the music but balked at the idea of Michael leading the film. They proposed that he could set any price for his soundtrack and be cast in a supporting role instead. Michael, however, was adamant: it had to be Wonka or nothing. The studio ultimately chose Johnny Depp, who later faced accusations of mimicking Michael’s mannerisms—claims he firmly denied.

5 He Almost Starred In Hook

Back in 1983, Steven Spielberg was developing a *Peter Pan* feature that originally envisioned Michael as the lead. The project, however, hit a snag when the film rights were transferred to Disney and entrepreneur Dodi Fayed, who promptly declared that Michael would not be part of the cast.

Fayed also pointed out that Michael’s fee request—over $10 million—exceeded the $20 million budget, and he was unwilling to allocate additional funds for a director. Displeased with the new adult‑Peter Pan premise—a lawyer who failed to recognize his own identity—Michael walked away. The role eventually landed with Robin Williams, and the movie emerged as *Hook* in 1991.

4 He Almost Went To The World Trade Center On 9/11

According to Michael’s older brother Jermaine, the King of Pop was booked for a meeting on the top floor of one of the World Trade Center towers on the fateful morning of September 11, 2001. A late‑night conversation with his mother kept Michael up well into the early hours, causing him to oversleep and miss the appointment.

When the tragic events unfolded, the family only realized how narrowly Michael had escaped death after his mother called to check on him. Michael confirmed he was fine, grateful for the unexpected extra hours of sleep that saved his life.

3 He Almost Built A Theme Park

Michael’s fascination with immersive entertainment led him to pursue theme‑park ventures on at least two occasions. In 1997, he partnered with Prince Al‑Waleed—an investor in Disneyland Paris—to develop a Peter Pan‑themed park. Together they founded Kingdom Entertainment to operate the envisioned attraction.

The proposed design featured a bustling London‑street façade that would usher visitors into a Neverland‑styled realm. A dramatic 50‑degree‑tilt ride would have shown guests a massive dome displaying footage of London and Neverland as they entered. A year later, Michael teamed up with casino magnate Don Barden to apply for a Detroit waterfront license, envisioning a colossal dome housing a hotel, amusement park, aquarium, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. The entire complex, dubbed Majestic Kingdom, would have included The Thriller Theme Park and The Mansion in the Sky. The license never materialized, and the dream remained unbuilt.

2 He Almost Starred As Professor X In X‑Men

The casting saga for the 2000 film *X‑Men* was a revolving door of celebrity auditions. Shaquille O’Neal coveted the role of Bishop, while Janet Jackson and Mariah Carey both lobbied for Storm. Producers ultimately favored Angela Bassett for Storm, but her agents demanded a higher salary. Rachael Leigh Cook was also considered for Rogue, but her representation also asked for more money.

Both Terence Stamp and Michael threw their hats in the ring for Professor X. Neither secured the part, which ultimately went to Patrick Stewart. Meanwhile, Viggo Mortensen pursued Wolverine, only to lose to Dougray Scott. An unexpected motorcycle accident on the set of *Mission: Impossible 2* sidelined Dougray, prompting Bryan Singer to call in Hugh Jackman, who finally embodied the iconic mutant.

1 He Almost Had A Duet With Prince

The rivalry between Michael and Prince was legendary, with each viewing the other as a competitive threat. In 2006, Prince famously walked up to Michael during a concert and blared his bass directly at him, a moment that underscored their tense relationship. Michael himself never spoke kindly of Prince, labeling him rude, mean, and nasty.

Despite the animosity, the two artists attempted to collaborate twice. The first effort involved reworking Michael’s 1987 hit “Bad” into a duet. Prince rejected the proposal, then mockingly re‑recorded the track and sent it back to Michael. Years later, Prince approached Michael again, this time for a duet tied to an upcoming Batman soundtrack. Michael declined, preferring to concentrate on his own concert endeavors. The missed collaborations remain a fascinating footnote in pop history.

When it comes to eccentric collectors, few can match the King of Pop. The 10 bizarre items Michael Jackson amassed range from quirky toys to oversized statues, each telling a strange tale of his flamboyant taste. As always, click the image for a larger view.

10 Bizarre Items Unveiled

1 Ice‑cream Girl

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2 Speechless

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3 WTF?!

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4 Such Humility

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5 Chucky’s Sister

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6 Car Hood

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7 His Royal Highness

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8 Coffee Machine

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9 Lifesize Superman

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10 Scary

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These ten curiosities give a glimpse into Michael Jackson’s off‑beat taste, proving that even a pop legend can collect items that leave us both baffled and fascinated.

Irish dancing, from the thunderous footwork of Michael Flatley to the fresh charisma of Ciara Sexton, has become a vibrant thread in Ireland’s cultural tapestry. This art form, steeped in centuries‑old tradition yet constantly reinvented, captivates audiences worldwide with its intricate steps, lively rhythms, and sheer passion. Below, we celebrate the ten most iconic Irish dancers who have left an unforgettable imprint on the stage.

1 Michael Flatley: The Lord of the Dance

No dancer is more instantly recognizable than Michael Flatley, the self‑styled “Lord of the Dance.” He catapulted Irish dance onto the global stage with his electrifying choreography and charismatic presence, first dazzling crowds in the iconic “Riverdance” and later headlining his own blockbuster productions such as “Lord of the Dance.” Flatley’s innovative blend of traditional steps with theatrical flair set a new benchmark for modern Irish dance spectacles and inspired countless performers to push the envelope.

See also: Top 10 Most Famous Dancers of All Time

2 Jean Butler: The First Lady of Irish Dance

Jean Butler rose to fame as the original female lead alongside Michael Flatley in the seminal “Riverdance” production. Her flawless technique, expressive storytelling, and innate grace earned her the moniker “First Lady of Irish Dance,” cementing her status as a trailblazer for women in the field. Butler’s performances combined precision with emotive nuance, making her a beloved figure among both fans and fellow dancers.

3 Colin Dunne: Master of Rhythm

Colin Dunne’s career is a masterclass in technical brilliance and artistic imagination. Known for his seamless fusion of traditional Irish step with contemporary movement, Dunne has consistently wowed audiences worldwide. His performances showcase a rhythmic agility that feels both rooted in heritage and boldly forward‑looking, earning him a reputation as a true virtuoso of the dance floor.

See also: The Top 10 Most Famous Belly Dancers

4 Riverdance Troupe

The Riverdance troupe, a cohesive ensemble of dancers, musicians, and vocalists, turned a brief Eurovision interval act into a worldwide phenomenon. Their high‑energy routines, dazzling footwork, and infectious enthusiasm have introduced Irish dance to millions, inspiring countless people to explore the rich cultural heritage of Ireland.

5 Michael Donnellan: Dynamic Performer

Michael Donnellan’s dynamic style and remarkable agility have secured his place among the elite of Irish dance. A former principal dancer with Riverdance, Donnellan blends athletic prowess with artistic expression, delivering performances that highlight the intricate beauty and technical complexity of the form on an international stage.

See also: Top 10 Most Famous Pole Dancers

6 James Devine: Traditional Virtuoso

James Devine is celebrated for his vibrant footwork and commanding stage presence. While deeply rooted in traditional Irish dance, he continually experiments with modern influences, pushing the genre’s boundaries while honoring its historic roots.

7 Bernadette Flynn: Riverdance Icon

Bernadette Flynn’s poise and elegance have made her a beloved icon within the Riverdance family. As a lead dancer, she helped propel Irish dance onto the world stage, inspiring a new generation of performers with her graceful artistry.

8 Joanne Doyle: Trailblazing Talent

Joanne Doyle’s technical precision and storytelling flair have earned her accolades as one of Ireland’s top dancers. Her performances blend fluid movement with deep emotional resonance, captivating audiences wherever she appears.

See also: 10 Most Famous Dance Styles in the World

9 Liam Harney: Iconic Choreographer

Liam Harney’s infectious enthusiasm and inventive choreography have solidified his reputation as a leading creative force in Irish dance. Drawing on both traditional and contemporary influences, Harney continues to expand the artistic horizons of the art form.

10 Ciara Sexton: Rising Star

Ciara Sexton represents the fresh wave of talent reshaping Irish dance today. Her versatility spans classic jigs to cutting‑edge contemporary pieces, and her magnetic stage presence showcases the vibrant diversity and evolving spirit of Irish dance culture.

Irish dancing not only entertains but also acts as a cultural ambassador, promoting Ireland’s rich heritage worldwide. Through the dedication and brilliance of these ten legends, the art form continues to thrive for generations to come.

FAQs: Irish Dancing

See also: Top 10 Most Beautiful Irish Women

The world of Irish dancing is rich with history, tradition, and talent. From the ancient reels of centuries past to the contemporary performances of today, Irish dancers have captivated audiences with their skill and artistry.

The sports documentary miniseries The Last Dance earned rave reviews and captured every sports fan’s imagination as it wrapped up on Netflix. In this top 10 obscure look at Michael Jordan, we’ll uncover the hidden gems that didn’t make the final cut.

Uncover the top 10 obscure facts about the basketball legend

10 He’s Technically From New York

Most people think of Michael Jordan as a North Carolina native, but the reality is a little more complicated. He actually entered the world at Cumberland Hospital in Brooklyn, New York, and spent roughly a year and a half in the Big Apple before his family packed up and headed south.

Jordan’s parents, James and Delores, moved the toddler to Wilmington, North Carolina, where his love for basketball truly blossomed. While he never considered New York his hometown, the brief birthplace stint still counts – 18 months of New York life while his dad honed his mechanic skills on the GI Bill, studying airplane hydraulics. After a stellar playing career in Chicago and Washington, MJ bought a stake in the Charlotte Bobcats and later reclaimed a majority share of the Charlotte Hornets, cementing his lifelong bond with North Carolina.

9 He Grew Four Inches in One Summer as a Teenager

During his sophomore year at Emsley A. Laney High School in Wilmington, Jordan tried out for the varsity basketball squad but fell short because he measured just 5‑ft‑11‑in (180 cm). With a father standing 5‑ft‑9‑in and a mother at 5‑ft‑6‑in, a growth spurt seemed unlikely.

That summer, however, he shot up four inches to a towering 6‑ft‑2‑in, instantly changing his basketball prospects. The added height, combined with his relentless work ethic, propelled him onto the junior varsity team and soon after onto varsity, where he began posting big numbers. He kept growing, eventually reaching 6‑ft‑3‑in and earning a spot in the 1981 McDonald’s All‑American Game, paving his way to college stardom.

8 He Studied Cultural Geography at College

When Jordan earned his basketball scholarship to the University of North Carolina in 1981, most assumed he’d focus solely on hoops. Surprisingly, he enrolled as a Bachelor of Arts major in Geography, diving into courses like Basic Writing, Selected Math, Beginning Tennis, and even Elementary Portuguese during his first semester.

His academic path continued even after his breakout college season and Olympic gold in 1984. Jordan postponed his final year to enter the NBA Draft, but he returned in 2006 to finish his Geography degree, a passion sparked by a 1983 trip to Venezuela with the U.S. Pan‑American team that ignited his interest in cultural geography.

7 Why He Wore 23

Jordan’s iconic number 23 didn’t happen by accident. As a kid, he idolized his older brother Larry, who wore number 45 on the high school varsity team. When Michael finally made the team, he decided to halve his brother’s number, landing on 23 – after all, 22.5 wasn’t an option on the jersey rack.

The number 23 became synonymous with greatness, inspiring countless athletes from David Beckham to LeBron James. Yet Jordan also donned number 45 later in his career, a nod to his brother, especially after his first retirement when he returned to the Bulls.

During the 1994‑95 Eastern Conference semifinals, a heated exchange with Orlando’s Nick Anderson led Jordan to remark that “number 45 doesn’t explode like number 23 used to,” prompting him to revert to his beloved 23 for the remainder of his career.

6 He Once Wore Number 12 in the NBA

In a quirky twist, Jordan sported the number 12 during a 1989‑90 game against the Orlando Magic. The story goes that his beloved 23 jersey vanished from the visitors’ locker room at Amway Arena sometime between the morning shoot‑around and the pre‑game warm‑ups.

Despite the locker room being locked, the jersey somehow disappeared, sparking a frantic arena‑wide search. Rumors even suggest a public address announcement asked fans to donate a Jordan shirt that would fit him. When nothing materialized, the Bulls settled for an unmarked number 12 jersey, and Jordan still dropped 49 points, even though Chicago fell 135‑129.

Recent footage from Orlando claims the jersey theft was a deliberate ploy, with a Bulls staffer allegedly slipping through a ceiling tile to pilfer the 23. The mystery remains part of NBA folklore.

5 He Had a “Love of the Game” Clause in His Contract

Early in his NBA tenure, Jordan secured a unique clause in his first Bulls contract that let him play basketball anywhere, anytime, against anyone. General manager Jerry Krause approved the clause, despite the obvious injury risk, because Jordan’s passion for the sport was undeniable.

The clause covered everything from exhibition matches to impromptu pickup games. Jordan’s love for street hoops was evident from his high‑school days at Wilmington’s Empie Park, where he challenged anyone who dared step onto the court. He carried that same enthusiasm through college and into his pro years, even participating in alumni games after graduation.

The “Love of the Game” provision eventually vanished in the 1990s after a new collective bargaining agreement, but its spirit lived on. During the filming of Space Jam in 1995, Warner Brothers built a private facility for Jordan to showcase his game‑loving skills alongside stars like Reggie Miller, a moment highlighted in The Last Dance.

4 Miami Heat Retired His Number

In an astonishing move, the Miami Heat retired Jordan’s number 23 – despite him never playing a single game for the franchise. This marked the first time the Heat ever retired a jersey, honoring a player who never donned a Heat uniform.

The retirement ceremony took place before Jordan’s final home game at the American Airlines Arena on April 11 2003. A half‑Chicago, half‑Washington jersey was hoisted, and coach Pat Riley proclaimed on the court, “In honor of your greatness and everything you’ve done for basketball worldwide, we’re hanging your number 23 in our rafters. No one will ever wear it for the Heat.”

To date, the Heat remain the only NBA team besides the Chicago Bulls to retire Jordan’s iconic number.

3 His Divorce Was the Largest Celebrity Settlement

Jordan’s first marriage to Juanita Vanoy began in 1989 and ended in a highly publicized split. Their divorce, finalized in 2006, reportedly netted a staggering $168 million settlement, earning the top spot on Forbes’ list of the most expensive celebrity divorces.

While the couple’s lawyers described the split as “mutual and amicable,” rumors of infidelity swirled, and Jordan also shouldered over $2 million in legal fees. Since then, other high‑profile divorces, such as those of Mel Gibson and Robyn Moore, have eclipsed the settlement amount.

2 He Donated a Significant Lawsuit Settlement to Charity

After a six‑year legal battle, Jordan secured a multimillion‑dollar settlement in 2015 over a lawsuit against Dominick’s and Jewel‑Osco for unauthorized use of his name in a 2009 Sports Illustrated ad. Although the exact figure remained confidential, the case followed an earlier $8.9 million jury verdict against Dominick’s.

Jordan pledged to donate the entire settlement—after attorney fees—to charitable causes. He explained, “The 23 charities I’ve chosen support health, education, and well‑being for Chicago’s kids. The city gave me so much; I want to give back to its future.” The settlement underscored his commitment to protecting his image rights while helping the community.

1 Same Wedding Venue as the Trumps

Jordan’s second wife, Cuban‑American model Yvette Prieto, didn’t appear in The Last Dance, nor did his first wife or children. The pair met in a Miami nightclub in 2007, when Jordan was 44, and began dating in 2009.

The couple got engaged during the 2011 Christmas break and tied the knot in 2013 at Bethesda‑by‑the‑Sea, an Episcopal church in Florida. The ceremony featured high‑profile guests like Tiger Woods and Spike Lee, with performances by Robin Thicke and Usher.

Interestingly, the same church hosted the 2005 wedding of future President Donald Trump and Melania Trump, making it a shared venue for two very different public figures.