MUMBAI: E! Networks and UK pay TV platform BSkyB have announced that they will cast actor Edward Moss in the role of pop legend Michael Jackson in their re-enactment of The Michael Jackson Trial

Moss has been performing as Michael Jackson since 1996. E! Networks senior VP production Jeff Shore said, "Edward Moss brings experience and skill to the role of Michael Jackson. All the components of our production, from casting to the recreation of the courtroom set, will be vital to our re-enactment series of The Michael Jackson Trial, which we believe will be one of the most memorable court cases in history."

Using re-enactments taken from portions of court transcripts, the series will highlight the previous day's testimony and happenings in the courtroom. On E!, the series will also include expert commentary by a panel of legal analysts.

Sky's associate editor Simon Bucks, commented, "We are delighted that Edward Moss has agreed to read Michael Jackson's words. This innovative programming initiative draws on the reconstructions with actors which Sky News pioneered during The Hutton Inquiry in 2003. As well as having a striking resemblance to Michael Jackson, Edward also has the acting ability to accurately portray him on a daily basis for Sky News and Sky One. "

Moss has performed all over the globe appearing as the pop singer on stage, television and in films. He has appeared on MadTV, Politically Incorrect, The Steve Harvey Show and Nip/Tuck. His film credits include Scary Movie 3 and Don't Be Scared. He has also appeared in numerous commercials, music videos and stage shows in Las Vegas, including the Bette Midler Millennium Concert and Carnival Cabaret.

Moss said, "This is my biggest challenge to date. I am aware that my portrayal will be followed by millions every day on E!, Sky News and Sky One."

The Michael Jackson Trial is scheduled to air Monday through Friday night at 7:30 PM ET/PT on E! Entertainment Television, with a weekend wrap- up show airing each Saturday. The programs will air exclusively in the UK on Sky News and Sky One every weekday. Additionally, Sky News is available in over 40 countries worldwide. Internationally, E! programming can be seen in more than 120 countries worldwide, reaching 300 million homes.

In addition to its ventures for locally programmed, E!-branded channels outside the US, the company operates the E! International Network, a 24-hour English language global entertainment channel available via satellite in Europe, Asia Pacific, The Middle East and Africa.