Sadly enough, people who are in the spotlight are remembered mostly for what they did last. Michael was a king in the 80's, but he has reduced himself to the target of disgusting jokes and rumors. Despite all of his successes, he will probably be remembered most as an accused or convicted (yet to be determined) child molester.
Obviously, the media is always trying to find the slightest evidence that will begin a major story/rumor on a celebrity, and so celebrities must be extra cautious in what they do. In my opinion, this is what makes life tough for them... fortunately they have millions to make them feel somewhat better. Some celebrities are caught in a "scandal" of sorts, and it doesn't ruin their reputation (Charlie Sheen, Rob Lowe, etc). But some things can never be lived down, and in Michael's case, these rumors/allegations/charges will always haunt him.
Michael is responsible for his actions, and even if he did nothing to deserve all of this attention, he brought it all upon himself by acting in ways that are extremely out-of-the-ordinary in the court of public opinion. I have made no conclusion regarding his innocence or guilt in these matters, but I do believe that he is guilty of creating a negative image for himself.
