Sky News report that Michael Jackson’s ill-fated London show could be turned into a tribute gig featuring his family has been welcomed by the O2 Arena.

O2 chief executive David Campbell told Sky’s Jeff Randall Live the venue would have no trouble hosting the event, even at short notice.

“It was less than three months that we put together Led Zeppelin and a one-off tribute from Led Zeppelin so that can happen in a short period of time,” he said.

Jackson was due to perform 50 dates at the O2 Arena, starting next week and ending in March next year.

The concerts were a sell-out and the star’s legion of fans were counting the days until they saw him perform.

Then came the news he had died aged 50 after suffering a heart attack at his home in Los Angeles.

Fans who bought tickets for the O2 gigs have been offered full refunds.

But Michael Jackson’s tour promoter says the show could be turned into a tribute gig featuring his family.

Randy Phillips, president of AEG Live, told Sky News’ presenter Kay Burley he had attended rehearsals and the show was going to be “beyond anything”.

He added: “At some point the world needs to see this production.

“I would imagine it could be done as a tribute with the family, with the brothers performing, some sisters, and the stars that were influenced by him.”

He went on: “It would have been, which is the tragedy here, one of the most amazing shows ever, so at some point we want the world to see that.

“We are discussing with the family so the sooner, the better.”