Latino to Direct Michael Jackson Memorial

When you watch the Michael Jackson Memorial Service today on television or online (most networks will air it live starting at 9AM PT and noon ET, but some will start coverage in the morning), take a minute to feel a little Latino pride. The service, which will be watched by millions if not billions around the world and may become the most watched television event ever, will be directed by a Latino, Kenny Ortega.

If the name sounds familiar, that's because the Spanish and Cuban Ortega is the director of the ultra-successful High School Musical movies. But beyond his work with kids, Ortega is a legend when it comes to directing and choreographing huge events: He has taken on Super Bowl halftime shows, Olympic opening ceremonies and the Oscars. His choreography made Dirty Dancing an iconic movie and Madonna's Material Girl video an instant classic.

And then there is his past work with MJ. Together with the music legend, Ortega created and designed the Dangerous and HIStory word tours. Though of course Michael Jackson was an original who worked hard to bring his own vision to billions of fans, even genius needs a hand. So when you watch the YouTube videos of MJ doing his thing onstage, you're watching magic that Ortega helped create.

Now Ortega, whom the singer hired in May to help create his London shows, is charged instead with putting together a star-studded tribute (Mariah Carey and Usher, among many others are slated to perform) that honors the immortal entertainer. I'll be watching.

Meanwhile, check out these two videos from the HIStory tour and MJ's last rehearsal, on the night before he died: