Michael Jackson's doctor has told a judge that he will not testify in his own defence as evidence came to a close in his involuntary manslaughter trial.
Closing arguments in the six-week case will begin on Thursday before jurors begin deliberations.
Cardiologist Dr Conrad Murray held his hands over his mouth as if he was praying in the moments before Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor asked him whether he intended to give evidence.
The judge also asked if he understood the decision was his alone to make. "Have you made up your mind?" the judge asked.
Murray paused, looked at all his lawyers in the Los Angeles court, seemed to sigh and said: "My decision is I will not testify in this matter."
The judge asked lead attorney Ed Chernoff if he had conferred with Murray about his rights and Chernoff said yes.
"The court finds the defendant has knowingly, freely and explicitly waived his right to testify," the judge said. "I certainly will respect that decision."
Murray had left open the possibility of testifying on Monday, when he told the judge that he had not made a final decision.
Prosecutors contend Murray gave Jackson a fatal dose of the anaesthetic propofol in the bedroom of his mansion. Defence lawyers claim Jackson self-administered the dose when Murray left the room.
Murray has pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter in Jackson's death on June 25 2009. He could face up to four years behind bars and the loss of his medical licence if convicted.
