GPA Entertainment announced this week the pending release of an exclusive documentary featuring 84-year old Joe Jackson, father of pop icon Michael Jackson and self-proclaimed architect of the Jackson family musical empire. Confessions of a Father is compiled from hours of interviews conducted over a two-year period. 

The feature-length film will offer a look at one of the most controversial fathers in show business history. Told from Joe Jackson’s perspective, the film will cover the Jackson family history from the formation of the Jackson 5 through Michael’s tragic death and the subsequent trial and sentencing of his physician, Dr. Conrad Murray. The film’s release is planned for 2012, as is the publication of “The Architect,” Joe Jackson’s autobiography from Atria Books, a division of Simon and Schuster.

Confessions of a Father is produced by Johnny West and award-winning producer George Paige, whose credits include “Michael Jackson…the Legend Continues,” and scores of other TV programs and feature films. “For the first time, Joe Jackson lifts the veil and airs the dirty laundry, like it or not,” says Paige.  “If you think you know the Jackson history, think again.”

Filmed partially on location at the Jackson family Havenhurst estate, the documentary will give viewers a never-before-seen look at Michael Jackson’s personal theatre and the special room where the Jackson family and Michael’s children were home schooled.  “We filmed in Gary, Indiana too,” says West, who also directed.  “Seeing the Jackson house and hearing the voices of people who knew them before, during and after their rise to stardom sheds new light on this intriguing family.”

Of special interest will be the newly uncovered audio recording of the Jackson 5 in their first ever studio session.  “Big Boy” was recorded at Steel-town Records by Gordon Keith, who appears on camera to talk about guiding the dynamic young performers in those early sessions.

The documentary will have a theatrical release in 2012 before a nationwide home entertainment blu-ray and DVD release.The trailer will be available shortly at www.jacksondocumentary.com.