Fans of Michael Jackson have been paying tribute to him many different ways since his death on June 25.

Thrill CMU was an attempt to break the current world record for the most college students doing the “Thriller” dance, which is set at 242 people. It was held Friday in the Indoor Athletic Complex Friday. Unfortunately, Thrill CMU’s sponsors, Central Michigan Life, Moore Hall Television and Modern Rock 91.5, expected a bigger turnout. Approximately 50 students participated in the dance when 500 were expected.

Though the amount expected didn’t show up that was expected it didn’t stop students from enjoying the dance.

One student in particular, Essexville senior Adam Militello was more than happy to be participating. He has been a fan since he was four years old. This being his last year at CMU, Militello is honored to be able to pay homage to the king of pop.

“Never in my wildest dreams did I think CMU would do a ‘Thriller’ dance,” Militello said. “I think it’s awesome. If I have a chance to take part in it, I will.”

When Militello was 18, he got a tattoo of Michael Jackson’s famous toe stand with ‘King of Pop’ tattooed around it. Two months ago, he added ‘never can say goodbye’ to honor his impact on the music industry.

Unexpected results

One thought was some people might have not come because of a high school football game at Kelly/Shorts stadium taking place at the same time. Carly Mills, Central Michigan Life public relations intern and Orleans senior, wasn’t aware of the game and hoped it didn’t hinder people from attending the event.

However, it didn’t stop participants from enjoying their time at the event.

“I’m happy with the outcome,” Mills said. “Everybody knew the dance really well.”

She was happy to see students participate in the event.

“It’s nice to see some faces out there,” she said. “It’s better than nothing.”

Rewarding fans

There was food, prizes, and contests for the participants provided by the sponsors at the event. Pizza was sold by Cottage Inn, 1639 E. Broomfield, and staff from 91.5 WMHW handed out Michael Jackson memorabilia.

Mills said they awarded three trophies for the best Michael Jackson participant, best residence hall attendance, and largest fraternity/sorority dance.

Larzelere Hall won the best residence hall attendance.

Muskegon freshman Kristine Stafford was happy to be awarded for having more participants from her hall. Stafford and a few of her fellow residents informed other residents of Thrill CMU and practiced together regularly.

“It’s neat to get a group of people together and involved,” Stafford said. “It was cool to imitate his dance and bring that bit of him back. It was worth it.”

Stafford said Michael Jackson was a pop culture icon and the participants made an accurate portrayal of his dance.

“I think everybody had a lot of fun, which in the end, is most important,” Mills said.

E-mail the author: Amelia Eramya