A public memorial service in memory of Michael Jackson will be held next Tuesday in Los Angeles, according to reports.

The ceremony will take place at the 20,000 capacity Staples Center, which is owned by AEG Live, the promoters of the singer's ill-fated London gigs.

There are reports that television screens could also be constructed outside the venue to allow fans to watch the service.

There has been widespread speculation over how Jackson's life would be marked since his death seven days ago.

Yesterday, his family said that, despite reports, the star's body would not be put on public display at his former home, Neverland.

But they did confirm that plans were under way to stage a public memorial.

The Staples Center – home of the Los Angeles Lakers – is one of the city's most high profile venues.

In an interview with Sky News earlier this week, AEG Live's chairman Randy Phillips confirmed he had offered the venue to Jackson's family.

It was Phillips who masterminded Jackson's planned comeback gigs at the O2 Arena in London, which would have started on July 13.

(by Jason Gregory)