Janet and actor Jamie Foxx pay tribute to the late star at emotional awards ceremony

Janet Jackson made her first public appearance since her brother's death last night as she joined a host of stars honouring the King of Pop.

The singer, 43, struggled to speak during a surprise appearance at the Black Entertainment Television awards in Hollywood’s Shrine auditorium.

My entire family wanted to be here tonight but it was just too painful, so they elected me to speak for all of us,” she told the audience.

“To you, Michael is an icon. To us, Michael is family and he will forever live in all of our hearts. On behalf of my family and myself, thank you for all of your love, thank you for all of your support. We miss him so much, thank you so much.”