Body Worlds creater Gunther von Hagens has pulled off a major publicity coup by acquiring the rights to Michael Jackson’s remains.  Von Hagens plans to plastinate the late singer’s body for a display at his exhibits, which are viewed by millions worldwide. The controversial “Dr. Death” had signed an agreement with the King of Pop last year, stating that von Hagens would preserve Jackson’s corpse after his death.

“This has materialized sooner than I had expected,” said von Hagens, rather coolly during a telephone interview with Alligators In The Sewer staffers today. “I never would have guessed that Mr. Jackson would check out so soon. I need to get to work.”

Von Hagens plans to have Jackson’s body preserved in liquid nitrogen and flown to his studio in Germany some time next week. Von Hagens has expressed interest in mounting the body in a dancing pose.

The Jackson family is fully supportive of Michael’s last wishes.

“It’s what he wanted, for better or worse” said brother Jermaine, wiping back tears. “We intend to support his wishes, no matter what some people may think.”

A spokesman for Jackson’s booking agency was ecstatic.

“Knowing that millions of fans will still line up to see Michael Jackson long after his death just underscores the massive marketing juggernaut that is Michael Jackson,” said the publicist. “This is going to sell a ton of records and merchandise for many years to come. I only wish more rock stars would do this. That von Hagens dude is a genius.”

Von Hagens’ response to the publicity was right to the point: “People will pay big money to see this,” deadpanned the Body Worlds creator. “If only I had been doing this back when Elvis kicked off. Perhaps I need to be approaching some other celebrities who are circling the drain.”