Reports emerged after the Jackson family officially ruled out any public or private viewing of the late King of Pop's body at his Neverland ranch, contrary to previous reports.

The family had earlier confirmed that there are "plans underway" for a public memorial for Michael Jackson.

The official statements were made by a newly-appointed PR firm for the Jackson family.

Previous reports had said Jackson's body will be transported by convoy to his Neverland ranch in Encino, California, for a public wake to be held.

It was thought a public viewing would take place on Friday and a private funeral would be held on Sunday.

Thousands of fans were expected to descend on the usually quiet and genteel corner of California's wine region.

The ranch, Jackson's bolthole through some of his most traumatic years, lies deep in the countryside at the end of a winding two-lane road.

The local community is deeply concerned Neverland may be transformed into the equivalent of Elvis' Graceland museum in Memphis, making it a pilgrimage site for Jackson's devoted fans.

Santa Barbara County, where the ranch lies, is a high-end community that shuns celebrity.

Meanwhile, the late pop star's will has been made public, revealing Motown legend Diana Ross was mentioned a potential guardian for his three children.

Jackson's final wishes also completely cut out his ex-wife Debbie Rowe - mother of his two eldest children - from inheriting anything.

"I have intentionally omitted to provide my former wife, Deborah Jean Rowe Jackson," wrote Jackson.