I remember hearing debate about whether or not the public had the right to be in the court room for the O.J. Simpson trial, and I am already hearing this same discussion about Michael Jackson if he has to go to court.

People have this concept all backwards. The idea originates in the Sixth Amendment:

"In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury…"

This part of the Sixth Amendment was added to avoid secret trials where the government could abuse its power. This has nothing to do with the public's desire for good theater. It is all about protecting the accused's rights.