The Cascio family, who were once considered Michael Jackson's "second family," has filed a lawsuit against the pop star's estate alleging child abuse. The siblings had previously defended Jackson for years as he faced various accusations of child molestation during his lifetime.

The lawsuit represents a significant reversal for the Cascio family, who maintained close ties with Jackson and had publicly supported him through previous legal challenges. Details of the specific allegations in the current lawsuit have not been fully disclosed.

The case adds to the ongoing legal and public relations challenges facing Jackson's estate, which continues to manage his musical legacy and business interests more than a decade after his death in 2009. Jackson faced multiple allegations of child abuse during his lifetime, including a highly publicized 2005 criminal trial in which he was acquitted on all charges.

Meanwhile, a new Michael Jackson film is preparing for release, with industry observers expecting a strong opening weekend despite the continuing controversies surrounding the late entertainer. The timing of the lawsuit and the film's release highlights the ongoing tension between Jackson's commercial legacy and the abuse allegations that have persisted since his death.

Jackson's estate has previously denied abuse allegations and defended the singer's reputation. The estate continues to generate significant revenue through music royalties, licensing deals, and other business ventures tied to Jackson's name and catalog.