Diana Ross willing to take on Jackson's children

The 68-year-old was named as a back-up guardian for Prince Michael, Paris and Blanket in their late father's will and although they are now under the shared custody of their grandmother Katherine and cousin TJ, she has made it clear she will step in and care for her godchildren if needed, reported New York Post.

"For the first time, Ross said she was willing to step in if needed. She had never spoken like that before. Whether she wanted to be listed as guardian or not, she's not going to abdicate any authority," said a family member who was present during Ross's recent visit to see the kids.

After the recent drama of Katherine losing and then regaining guardianship, Ross wanted to make sure the children were fine and travelled to see them in person in Calabasas, California.

"After Michael's death in 2009, Diana would phone the kids to see if they needed advice or anything else. But last week, she wanted to meet with the children in person to make sure she heard all the right things," a source said.