Michael Jackson's mother has filed a lawsuit against the promoter behind his ill-fated comeback gigs.

Katherine Jackson claims AEG Live failed to provide key lifesaving equipment and monitor the physician Dr Conrad Murray, who had hired to take care of the singer.

Jackson died last June on the eve of a 50-night concert residency at the O2 Arena in London.

In a lawsuit filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, Jackson's mother also contends that AEG did not have her son's best interests in mind.

"AEG's representations to Jackson were false because in reality AEG was merely doing whatever it took to make sure that Michael Jackson could make it to rehearsals and shows and AEG did not provide a doctor who was truly looking out for Jackson's well-being and did not provide equipment," the lawsuit says.

Katherine Jackson is the guardian to Jackson's three children and the main beneficiary of his estate.

AEG spokesman Michael Roth told the Associated Press the company had no immediate comment on the lawsuit.

Dr Murray has pleaded not guilty to a charge of involuntary manslaughter in connection with the star's death. He is due to appear at Los Angeles Superior Court on January 4.

(by Jason Gregory)