Michael Jackson's friend Uri Geller is to issue legal proceedings in Belfast as part of his libel action against American television network CNN.
The magician and psychic's lawyer confirmed an application will be made at the Northern Ireland High Court as the settlement of a separate defamation case was confirmed.
Geller, famed for bending spoons by what he says is mind power, developed a long and close relationship with Jackson, and even acted as the pop star's best man in 2001.
He is suing over false allegations Jackson's dermatologist Dr Arnold Klein made in an interview broadcast by CNN.
The action centres on claims that Geller personally benefited financially from setting up the singer's television interview with Martin Bashir.
Geller has consulted top libel lawyer Paul Tweed, who has already successfully represented him in a number of previous libel cases.
Mr Tweed, of Belfast-based firm Johnsons Solicitors, is now preparing to seek legal permission to issue proceedings on CNN.
Because the network is outside the jurisdiction, the application for leave to serve these at its headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia must be brought under the Hague Convention.
Separate proceedings will also be issued in London and Dublin.
© UTV News