La Toya covering 'DWTS' for 'Access'

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 23 (UPI) -- La Toya Jackson has signed on as "Access Hollywood's" guest correspondent covering the ninth season of TV's "Dancing with the Stars," NBC said.

The pop singer -- who, along with her family, has been at the center of a media firestorm since her brother Michael's unexpected death last June -- began her gig with "Access Hollywood" Tuesday night.

"After having such a traumatic summer and respectfully declining an invitation to be a contestant on ABC's 'Dancing with the Stars' due to the circumstances, I am pleased to accept this invitation from 'Access Hollywood' to be their special guest correspondent and I look forward to it," Jackson said in a statement.

NBC said Jackson will be on hand to interview the contestants, capture behind-the-scenes moments and provide insight for the viewers from her perspective as an experienced performer.

"We are excited to be able to show America how funny, clever and engaging La Toya is," added "Access Hollywood" Executive Producer Rob Silverstein. "She is the perfect fit for 'Access Hollywood' and will bring a knowledgeable perspective to the show."