Michael Jackson plans elephant stunt

U.S. pop star Michael Jackson gestures during a news conference at the O2 Arena in London March 5, 2009. Jackson said he will hold a series of final concerts in Britain later in the year. [Agencies]

Michael Jackson is to ride an elephant on stage.

The singer has baffled organisers of his 'This Is It' London residency by requesting the enormous beast in a bid to impress fans.

A source told Britain's Daily Mirror newspaper: "He hopes to make it the most spectacular show ever. For the jungle section, he wants to ride out on an African elephant with panthers led on gold chains. Parrots and other birds will fly behind him. If it goes to plan it will look incredible."

Despite animal welfare laws banning the use of some domestic creatures in shows the 50-year-old singer is determined to make it happen when he takes to the stage at The O2.

The source added: "He's desperate to find a way around it." As well as dozens of animals, Michael also wants to hire 100 Masai warriors for the 50-date extravaganza.

His managers are said to be concerned about the singer's wild ideas and fear the costs and insurance premiums will spiral out of control.

Around 750,000 tickets for Michael's record-breaking shows have been sold and his residency opens on July 8.