Mecha Michael

I honestly don't know how I missed this one a few days ago, but maybe you did, too:

Michael Jackson is in discussions about creating a 50-foot robotic replica of himself to roam the Las Vegas desert, according to reports.

The pop legend is currently understood to be living in the city, as he considers making a comeback after 2004's turbulent child sex case.

It has now been claimed that his plans include an elaborate show in Vegas, which would feature the giant Jacko striding around the desert, firing laser beams.

If built, the metal monster would apparently be visible to aircraft as they come in to land in the casino capital.

The mind boggles. I wonder what city department one would have to go to in order to get a gigantic, laser-shooting Michael Jackson robot approved. Do Vegas's zoning laws allow for such a contraption? And would it be allowed within 200 feet of parks and schools?

(Via ace, who notes that "Vegas is forever trying to sell itself as a 'family friendly' vacation destination. Nothing can be more reassuring to parents than to know there's a 50 foot Michael Jackson robot prowling around the city, plying their children with wine and pornography." Too true.)