The King of Pop, Michael Jackson, never ceases to stay in the public eye, no matter what the reason. Jackson’s most recent headline grabbing maneuver is once again nothing to be particularly proud of, as he is being sued for allegedly taking over $7 million as an advance for a record and an autobiography that he never produced.

Lawyers for Sheikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa of Bahrain say the money was given to Jackson as an advance on a book and joint recording project with the sheikh, who is also an amateur songwriter. Jackson claims the money was a gift, which just makes no god damn sense.

Bankim Thanki, a lawyer for Al Khalifa, said that his client first spoke to Jackson by telephone while he was on trial in California on charges of child molestation. The story goes that Al Khalifa wanted to work with Jackson on rebuilding his career, and spent millions paying Jackson’s legal feels, moving him to Bahrain and supporting Jackson, his family and entourage.

While Thanki acknowledged that Al Khalifa gave some gifts to Jackson, he also emphasized that most of what Jackson received was part of a business deal and the “gifts” were more along the lines of personal effects such as watches and jewelry.

Jackson’s financial situation deteriorated shortly after he was arrested on allegations that he molested a 13-year-old boy at his ranch. Last week he was forced to give up the deed on Neverland, a 2,500-acre miniature amusement park in California named for the mythical land of Peter Pan.