Elizabeth Taylor ended days of rampant speculation with the announcement that she would not attend the public memorial service for her longtime friend and confidant Michael Jackson Tuesday morning at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
FOXNews.com learned of Taylor's decision through her publicist as the film star posted her announcement on her Twitter page.
She wrote: "My love goes out to Katherine and Michael's beloved children... I said I wouldn't go to the Staples Center and I certainly don't want to become a part of it. I love him too much... I just don't believe that Michael would want me to share my grief with millions of others. How I feel is between us. Not a public event. And I cannot guarantee that I would be coherent to say a word.
"I've been asked to speak at the Staples Center. I cannot be part of the public whoopla."
Manilow's rep told FOXNews.com he had a prior engagement and was not planning on attending the memorial.
FULL COVERAGE: Click for FOX News coverage of Michael Jackson's death.
The film legend who first called Jackson the “King of Pop” waited until Monday evening, just hours before the event that is expected to attract tens of thousands, to quash the rumors.
Her decision follows the announcement that Debbie Rowe — Jackon's ex-wife and mother of the singer's two eldest children — would not be attending the memorial.
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