LONDON: Contactmusic.com reports that Jackson had telephoned Spears and told her to focus on her family life.

"I think Michael's warning sent shivers down Britney's spine. He was emphatic in warning her that she should leave show business in order to maintain her sanity. He thought she should retire after the 'Circus' tour so she could focus on the things that mattered - her sons and family," said a friend of Spears.

"Britney must have taken Michael's words to heart as she promised him she would at least take a long break after she finished the tour," the friend added.

After Jackson's death June 25, Spears had said: "I was so excited to see his show in London. We were going to be on tour in Europe at the same time and I was going to fly in to see him. He has been an inspiration throughout my entire life and I'm devastated he's gone."