Troubled superstar Michael Jackson has enlisted Hollywood pals Chris Tucker and Brett Ratner as character witnesses for his upcoming trial on child molestation charges.

The THRILLER hitmaker, 45, is accused to molesting cancer victim GAVIN ARVIZO but denies those charges and one count of administering an intoxicating substance for the purpose of committing a felony.

Rush Hour director Ratner and star Tucker were recruited when it emerged that the pair knew Arvizo's mother Janet and her son.

According to British tabloid THE DAILY SPORT, Ratner claims he knew Mrs Arvizo would "set up" the singer, while Tucker and his girlfriend have reportedly often babysat Gavin, 13.

29/02/2004 21:07