The King of Pop, Michael Jackson, has been reportedly working on a new album for years. While it's still unknown when this new project will see the light of day, it's possible some of his new material may be heard live, as he gears up for a run of shows overseas.

According to the Associated Press, the legendary singer is due to meet the press at a London concert arena this week to announce a string of concerts that organizers hope will net the financially troubled star millions.

Despite the excitement surrounding new Michael Jackson shows, some question whether Michael -- in light of erratic behavior, health fears, child-abuse allegations and money woes -- can still draw in the crowds.

One critic says his behavior has been so bad, it's harder and harder for fans to even admit they are fans these days.

"Because of what's happened to him and how he's lived his life over the last 20 years, he's made it very difficult for people to out themselves as Michael Jackson fans," British music writer and broadcaster John Aizlewood said Wednesday. "These concerts are a huge opportunity for rehabilitation."

50-year-old Jackson reportedly flew into London by private jet Tuesday (March 3) ahead of a "special announcement" Thursday afternoon (March 5) at the city's O2 Arena. Officially, it isn't confirmed what the announcement is about, but it's expected that he'll announce a string of up to 30 dates at the domed arena, which holds up to 20,000 people.

Organizers are hoping to see a return of the fan frenzy that once followed Jackson everywhere, but so far, only a handful of people joined the packs of press, photographers, and camera crews Wednesday outside Jackson's London hotel. Most said they were only there for autographs to sell on eBay.

With dates not even being announced yet, people such as bookmaker William Hill are already placing bets on his downfall. He is offering 5/1 odds that Jackson won't show for his first gig.

"Once people start buying tickets, they may well want to have a bet that he won't show up as a form of insurance," Hill's spokesman Graham Sharpe told the AP.

Still some have faith, Aizlewood believes that not even Michael can blow this. "This is Michael Jackson playing his greatest hits -- some of the greatest hits in the history of music -- live," Aizlewood said. "It is a great event. I think even Michael Jackson won't blow it."