Michael Jackson self-harmed in a desperate attempt to convince his doctor to give him painkilling medication, it's been reported.

The singer's alleged actions are understood to have come to light as part of the police investigation into Jackson's death.

According to the Daily Mirror, Jackson, who died on June 25, would pretend the self-inflicted injuries were the result of an accident.

“LAPD detectives have interviewed some 30-35 witnesses so far, and it has come to light that Michael was prone to self-harming,” a source said.

“He’d bang his head against the wall, hit his fists and arms against furniture, anything to cause a cut or bruise.

“He wanted to convince his doctors that he’d had an accident and was in a lot of pain – a legitimate reason to ask for painkillers.”

A family source added that Jackson would make a “huge deal” about the injuries after rehearsals - and that his staff had “suspicions” they had been self-inflicted.

The investigation in Jackson's death has come to focus on his alleged addiction to prescription medication.

Last night, the singer's personal physician, Dr Conrad Murray, who is at the centre of the police probe, posted a video on YouTube thanking his followers for their messages.

(by Jason Gregory)