Celebrity of the Year Finalist #10: Michael Jackson

With 2010 drawing to a close, it is with much pride that THG unveils its 10 finalists for its prestigious, Fourth Annual Celebrity of the Year award.

These stars all gave us their best, their worst, their nude pics (sometimes) and their scandals (often). This month, THG honors that greatness.

We present Celebrity of the Year finalist #10 … Michael Jackson!

It seems hard to believe the King of Pop, who passed away in 2009, might be bigger in death than he was in life, but MJ defies conventional wisdom.

Beyond the investigation into his death, there are side plots - the well being of his children, the insanity of his family - as well as a musical legacy.

Not only has his passing renewed interest in vintage Michael Jackson hits, his estate has capitalized on the fervor with a forthcoming album, Michael.

With the release of that previously-unreleased material, of course, has come even more controversy. Is it real? Is it fake? Is MJ rolling in his grave?

The only thing we know for sure about Michael Jackson is that truth is often stranger than fiction, and that you can always expect the unexpected.

That's why MJ's #10 on our list, even if he's not around for it. Few have made a bigger impact. Follow the jump for some songs from this year ...

Hold My Hand (Akon and Michael Jackson)

Michael Jackson Feat. 50 Cent: Monster