Debbie Rowe has broken her silence and in an new interview today says that she wants custody of her and Michael Jackson's children. Debbie says she will take DNA tests to prove she is the biological mother of Paris and Prince Michael I, and will submit to psychological testing as well. She says it is time for her to "step up" and be there for the children now that Michael is gone. Debbie said that she has visitation rights under their agreement, but that it was made very difficult for her to see the children or to reschedule a date, saying "We had an agreement... he didn't keep his end. It hasn't been easy. It's been painful." Debbie testified for Michael at his trial on child molestation charges and apparently expected to have more time with the children afterwards. But that didn't happen.
"I want my children," Rowe said during a 90-minute phone conversation Thursday morning with Chuck Henry of KNBC in Los Angeles.
Rowe said she was willing to submit to any testing, including DNA, to prove that she is the children's true biological mother. Rowe also said she would submit to psychological testing.
She also said she would seek a restraining order to keep Jackson's father, Joe Jackson, away from the children.
The agreement does allow for visitation, but Rowe said it's a very difficult process.
"I am stepping up," Rowe said. "I have to."
Rowe said she was still grieving. She said she decided she had to seek custody after Jackson's death.
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Rowe said she was concerned about splitting up the children. She said she did not expect the court to grant custody of the third child, but added that she would be willing to accept custody.
This is a huge development in the case. The fact that she is willing to submit to whatever tests the court wants her to have is a good sign. We also think it's an excellent idea that she get a restraining order denying Joe Jackson the right to see the children. Michael spoke many times of the horrifying verbal and physical abuse he received from his father; Joe Jackson shouldn't be allowed anywhere near those kids. No doubt Michael told Debbie many things about his childhood. After all, they were close friends for years in addition to being married.
