The paternity of Michael Jackson’s three children is in the spotlight with reports claiming that the pop star was not their biological father, even as millions of fans hope to pay their final tribute to their idol in a public viewing scheduled for Friday.

US celebrity website TMZ, which first broke the news of Jackson’s death last week, has claimed that he was not the sperm donor for either of his three children and his ex-wife Debbie Rowe was a surrogate.

“Michael was not the sperm donor for any of his kids. Debbie’s eggs were not used. She was merely the surrogate, and paid well for her services in the births of Michael Jr and Paris,” the website said.

Another report by Us magazine claims that Jackson’s Australian dermatologist and Rowe’s boss, Arnold Klein is the biological father of Jackson’s two eldest children -Prince Michael, 12 and Paris Katherine, 11.

“He (Klein) is the dad. He and Debbie signed an agreement saying they would never reveal the truth,” an insider told Us magazine.

The reports have come at a time when Jackson’s mother hopes to get the permanent custody of Jackson’s three children in a hearing scheduled for August 3.

The family is, meanwhile, planning an elaborate memorial service for the millions of Jackson’s fans at his fantasy themed Neverland ranch where the pop star’s body will be kept for public viewing.

Jackson’s body will be taken to the ranch, north of Santa Barbara, California, on Thursday in preparation for viewing Friday and a private memorial service will take place on Sunday. Planning is underway for a 30-car motorcade carrying Jackson’s remains to leave the Los Angeles area on Thursday for Santa Barbara County, a law enforcement official said.

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