Getty Images | Ron Galella

Diana Ross Defends Michael Jackson, Asks Haters To 'Stop In The Name Of Love'

Michael Jackson has been on everyone's minds since the release of the explosive documentary "Leaving Neverland," which aired on HBO a few weeks ago.

Since the premiere, Michael's friends, family and fans have spoken out in his defense against Wade Robson and James Safechuck, the two men featured in the documentary accusing Jackson of sexual abuse.

Diana Ross, one of Michael's closest friends in the industry, had yet to comment on the documentary until recently.

Getty Images | ABC Photo Archives

Pictured above is Michael and Diana performing for the 1971 TV special "Diana" on ABC.

It was well known that Michael always admired Diana; he looked up to her professionally while curating a special personal bond that would last a lifetime.

The two starred in the all black adaptation of "The Wizard Of Oz" titled "The Wiz" in 1978.

Getty Images | Michael Ochs Archives

A pop film turned cult classic, the film allowed Michael and Diana's bond to grow even stronger.

That same year, a coy 18 year-old Michael sang the praises of Miss Diana Ross in an intimate interview.

Getty Images | Ron Galella

When asked about his close friends, Michael replied he had "a very dear, close friend that I can tell my deepest, darkest secrets to because I know she won't tell anyone else. Her name is ... Miss Diana Ross."

After Michael's death, it was revealed that Ross had been named as the person he wanted to be the guardian of his children should his mother be unable to care for them.

Getty Images | Images Press

Given this history of lifelong friendship, it's no wonder Diana has not spoken out against Michael.

Now, just days before her 75th brithday, Diana tweeted out, asking for the hate towards Jackson to stop.

Getty Images | Steve Azzara

She took to Twitter to speak out in defense of her friend.

"This is what's on my heart this morning," she wrote.

Getty Images | Jason LaVeris

"I believe and trust that Michael Jackson was and is a magnificent incredible force to me and to many others."

"STOP IN THE NAME OF LOVE," she concluded.

Getty Images | Dave Hogan

She is, of course, referencing Wade Robson and James Safechuck (pictured above).

Fans have been divided on Diana's tweet.

Many fans couldn't accept Ross' support for Michael.

Others thanked her for her coming forward with her support during this difficult time.

What do you think of Diana's comments?