You know, I think it also worked really well as yet another way to put the focus where it ought to be, especially regarding the press. Now the press has to print photos of the entire Jackson family in sunglasses, presenting a united front and honouring their brother. I'm sure they'd much rather have a few nice shots of say, Janet's bloodshot eyes and running mascara if they got the chance, and all of a sudden everything would be much more sensationalized. This way, they could mourn in peace and pay hommage to Michael at the same time.