Memories: They had different stories, but Farrah, M.J. left their mark

There is no easy answer when you ask for a description of the life Michael Jackson led -- or one word that could possibly sum up Farrah Fawcett.

But today, as we mourn their passing, we can think back to just how much joy their work brought us -- and how compelling their stories were, not just now, but across the span of their lives.

Without Michael Jackson, the world of pop music and videos would have been much different. He set records; he influenced songwriters and video producers; and he changed his industry forever.

Life was not always glamourous for the pop icon. He was plagued with sordid accusations and sagging record sales. His money troubles forced him to sell his home and sent him into virtual seclusion for many years. He was just getting ready to relaunch his career with a series of concert tours when he died.

Jackson leaves behind children, family and legions of fans around the world who will never forget him.

For Farrah Fawcett, her story was a fairy tale with thorns. The blonde bombshell broke into the scene in the 1970s and continued to be a part of the entertainment world for decades.

But it was the courage of her battle with cancer and her rocky, but inspiring, love affair with Ryan O'Neal that captured our hearts.

She was known for her beauty, but in the end, it was her humanness that will remain her legacy.

Published in Editorials on June 26, 2009 11:23 AM