Jackson's life was sad and tragic: Obama

Washington: U.S. President Barack Obama extended his condolences to Michael Jackson's family and fans, and noted that the pop icon's life at times was "sad and tragic", the White House said Friday.

Obama's condolences came one day after Jackson died at the age of 50 from an apparent cardiac arrest. White House spokesman Robert Gibbs told reporters that he discussed the death with Obama.

"He said to me that, obviously, 'Michael Jackson was a spectacular performer, a music icon'," Gibbs said. "The president also said ...'aspects of his life were sad and tragic'," Gibbs said. "His condolences went out to the Jackson family and to fans that mourned his loss," he added. Gibbs said he was unaware of whether Obama called the Jackson family. Jackson's sudden death has generated worldwide grieving for the icon who dominated the music scene in the 1980s and into the following decade. The US House of Representatives held a moment of silence at the beginning of its session Friday.