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Ex-Dr. Conrad Murray Claims Michael Jackson Hired Him, Not AEG Live

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Former Dr. Conrad Murray, who is behind bars for involuntary manslaughter in the 2009 death of Michael Jackson, claims the late pop star hired him for his "This Is It" tour, not AEG Live LLC.

TMZ.com obtained a phone message Friday morning that Murray made to a friend.

In the recording, he said, "AEG was involved in the hiring process, and they wanted to hire a less expensive doctor."

Murray also said that AEG never ordered him to give Jackson any specific treatment.

"To the best of my knowledge, AEG was not aware of my medical treatment of Michael. Michael referred to AEG as 'snakes,'" he said.

The former doctor did add, however, that "both AEG and Michael Jackson were my joint employers."

Valerie Wass, Murray's attorney, said she was with her client on Thursday and was taken aback when the voicemail was released.

"I was surprised. I wasn't surprised at the content of the recording, I was surprised that the recording came out," she said. "It's been difficult for him to just sit there, and not tell the truth, and I think he's been feeling very compelled to get the truth out there."

Katherine Jackson sued AEG Live for $40 billion, claiming the company failed to properly investigate Murray, who gave Jackson a lethal dose of propofol.

The Jackson family's attorney said the concert promoter promised Murray medical equipment and more so he could make sure "This Is It" was able to go on.

In a statement, Kevin R. Boyle said, "It is disturbing that a convicted felon continues to harass the family of his victim from prison. Although at this point nobody believes a word Murray says, in his latest message, Murray clearly states he was working for AEG and Michael Jackson."

KCAL9's Brittney Hopper tried to reach out to AEG's attorneys, but didn't get a response.

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