Whether they liked it or not, the kids of Michael Jackson were brought into the spotlight from the day they were born. As the children of the ‘King of Pop,’ Prince, Paris, and Bigi (formerly known as Blanket) were destined for lives under intense scrutiny, a gaze that only intensified after their father’s tragic passing in 2009 at the age of 50.
Their late father was renowned for his attempts to shield them from the relentless glare of the paparazzi, often using masks and veils when they were little. He desperately wanted them to experience as much of a normal childhood as possible, a stark contrast to his own heavily publicized upbringing. This protective instinct highlights the profound love Michael had for his children, viewing them as his world and a source of immense happiness.
Now, as grown adults, these three remarkable individuals – Prince, 28, Paris, 26, and Bigi, 21 – have not only become more visible to the public but have also carved out their own unique paths. Yet, through all the challenges, the fame, and the personal struggles, one thing remains constant: their incredibly close bond. Prince shared in a 2021 interview with Good Morning Britain, “We have such a close relationship,” a testament to the family unit their father worked so hard to nurture.
1. Prince’s Early Life and His Father’s Fierce Protection
Being the child of a global icon like Michael Jackson meant growing up in an extraordinary, often overwhelming, environment. Prince Jackson, Michael’s first child with ex-wife Debbie Rowe, experienced this firsthand. From his birth, his father issued statements seeking privacy for his son, deeply committed to being a good father and sheltering his children from the kind of intense public scrutiny he endured throughout his own life.
Michael was particularly notorious for covering his children’s faces with masks and veils whenever they appeared in public. This wasn’t a whimsical act; it was a deliberate and loving effort to maintain their privacy. Prince himself testified, following his father’s death, that Michael did it “so no one would know what we looked like so if we went out without him we could have a normal childhood.”
Despite these efforts, true normalcy was an elusive dream for Prince. As he grew older, he began to be recognized as a public figure, transforming his childhood into a constant dance with the media and paparazzi. He came to understand the profound reasons behind his father’s protective measures, realizing the immense challenges that came with their celebrity status.
Navigating this unique world meant learning to filter out those who were motivated by self-interest. Prince recalled Michael’s crucial advice to him and his siblings: “Trust no one.” He further elaborated on his father’s wisdom, saying, “It sounds bad, but … a lot of people are motivated by themselves. He said don’t trust someone just because it sounds like a good idea — do your research.”
2. Prince’s Profound Grief and His Enduring Role as Eldest Sibling
When the world reeled from the news of Michael Jackson’s sudden death in June 2009, his children were plunged into an unimaginable personal tragedy. Prince was only 12 years old, Paris was 11, and Bigi a mere 7. This profound loss left a gaping hole in their hearts and forced them to grapple with grief at an age when most children are still enjoying their innocence.
Michael’s passing meant Prince, as the eldest, felt an even greater sense of responsibility. He recalled his father’s words: “my father would always tell me I have to make sure the group is taken care of, and that I have to kind of be the leader and lead by example.” This guidance instilled in him a powerful sense of duty and a desire to uphold the family’s unity, a sentiment echoed in his later statements about their close relationship.
Coping with such a monumental loss at a tender age couldn’t have been easy, but it shaped Prince profoundly. He explained his method of processing grief, stating, “The way I cope is incorporating him into my life in every way — from my company logo having little bits of him [to] using his metaphors and trying to follow everything he taught us.” This dedication shows how deeply his father’s spirit continues to influence him.
He also acknowledged the individual nature of grieving within his family. “My brother and my sister, we’ve all coped differently. I’ve gotten better the older I get,” he shared, highlighting the personal journeys each sibling embarked upon after their father’s death. This demonstrates a mature understanding of their shared yet distinct experiences with loss.
3. Prince’s Courageous Testimony in the Wrongful Death Lawsuit
In the wake of Michael Jackson’s death, his mother, Katherine, along with Prince, Paris, and Bigi, initiated a wrongful death lawsuit against AEG Live, the concert promoter for the ‘This Is It’ residency. The family argued that the company bore partial responsibility for Michael’s death, claiming they hired Dr. Conrad Murray, who, they alleged, acted in AEG’s interests rather than Michael’s well-being.
Prince, despite his young age at the time, bravely took the stand to recount the harrowing final days of his father’s life. He painted a picture of Michael living in fear, often at odds with AEG leading up to his tour. Prince testified, “He would say, ‘They’re going to kill me. They’re going to kill me,'” revealing the deep distress his father experienced.
He further shared a chilling account of the night his father died. “I ran upstairs and I saw Dr. Conrad doing CPR on my dad on the bed,” Prince revealed during the trial. He continued, describing the scene with stark detail: “My dad was hanging halfway off the bed, and his eyes were rolled back in his head.”
After this traumatic discovery, Prince recalled hearing the devastating news of his father’s death directly from Dr. Murray. The doctor’s words to the children were stark: “Sorry kids, your dad’s dead.” Prince, then just 12, expressed his profound disappointment and confusion about Murray’s role, stating, “To my understanding, he was supposed to make sure my dad stayed healthy.”
4. Prince’s Inspiring Philanthropic Endeavors with Heal Los Angeles
Carrying forward his father’s legacy of giving back, Prince Jackson has truly made a positive impact through his own philanthropic work. He co-founded his charity, Heal Los Angeles, with a friend, an organization that initially began as a student service group in 2016 and has since blossomed into a full-fledged nonprofit.
The mission of Heal Los Angeles is deeply rooted in community betterment, aiming to “improve the lives of young people in Greater Los Angeles.” This dedication to helping others reflects the values instilled in him by his father, who always sought to spread messages of positivity and happiness through his own global humanitarian efforts.
During the challenging times of the pandemic, Heal Los Angeles stepped up significantly. The charity teamed up with a meal delivery service, working tirelessly to provide meals to those most in need. This proactive response underscored their commitment to practical support and community welfare, demonstrating tangible aid when it was most critical.
Prince firmly believes that his father would be incredibly proud of his work. He shared with ET Online, “I would like to think that he would be very proud because I think this was one of his main goals, was not only to spread his message of positivity and happiness but to see it enacted in his kids.” He also emphasized, “I’m very grateful that I have this feeling that it’s this collaborative ecosystem — we all need to help each other — and that came from the way that he raised us.” It’s clear that Michael’s lessons in empathy and collective responsibility continue to guide Prince’s significant contributions to the world.
5. Prince’s Academic Success and Passion for Motorcycles and Media
Beyond his philanthropic work, Prince Jackson has demonstrated a strong commitment to his personal growth and education. In 2019, he proudly graduated from Loyola Marymount University, earning a degree in business administration. This achievement was not just a personal milestone but also a testament to his dedication, as he graduated Cum Laude with a focus on entrepreneurship.
Prince commemorated his graduation on Instagram, sharing a collection of photos that included a picture with his younger brother, Bigi. He expressed heartfelt gratitude for his journey, writing, “I met so many people and learned so much that the experience alone is worth it. I wish I could thank everyone that helped me make it to the end but I can’t and unfortunately they’re not all pictured here.”
Away from his academic pursuits, Prince nurtures a vibrant passion for motorcycles. He’s not just a rider; he shares his adventures and even film reviews on his YouTube channel, often featuring his brother Bigi and cousin Taj Jackson. This outlet allows him to connect with a different audience and express another facet of his personality.
For Prince, riding isn’t just a hobby; it’s a therapeutic experience. He’s spoken about how cruising on his Harley Davidson helps him release stress and find focus. He once wrote, “Consciously it moves most troubles of everyday life to the back of your mind as it’s required to focus on the controls and surroundings of the bike… Simply to evaluate your surrounds and commit to the best plan. Anyways that’s why I love riding and I encourage everyone to find something that takes you to that place.”
6. Prince Thoughtfully Addresses Biological Father Speculation
For years, Prince Jackson, along with his siblings, has been at the center of persistent public speculation and conspiracy theories regarding his biological parentage. This intensely personal aspect of his life has been scrutinized and debated, often in the shadow of his father’s immense fame and the intricacies of his relationships.
These rumors gained significant traction when his mother, Debbie Rowe, reportedly made statements to the U.K. newspaper News of the World after Michael’s death. She was quoted as saying, “I was just the vessel. It wasn’t Michael’s sperm,” further fueling the public’s curiosity and the ongoing conversation about the children’s origins.
Adding to the swirling rumors, various figures contributed to the public chatter. British actor Mark Lester claimed Michael had approached him about sperm donation in the ’90s, stating, “Michael set it up for me to turn up to a clinic in Harley Street to do it. It was weird. I went in a couple of times to donate but we never talked about it ever again.” Even Michael Jackson’s former doctor, Arnold Klein, posted a suggestive comparison of himself and Prince on X (then Twitter), further intensifying the spotlight on Prince’s personal lineage.
However, Prince himself directly addressed these rumors with a powerful and definitive statement in 2015. Responding to a user touting the Klein theory on X, he wrote, “The blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb. I was raised by my dad with my brother and sister.” This eloquent response beautifully underscored his unwavering loyalty and the strength of the family unit that nurtured him, asserting that the bond of upbringing transcends biological ties.
7. Prince Navigates His Father’s Enduring Controversies
Living in the shadow of the ‘King of Pop’ meant Prince Jackson inherited not only a monumental legacy but also the enduring controversies that plagued his father’s life. Following Michael Jackson’s death, his children were left to confront the aftermath of decades of media scrutiny, including the infamous ual abuse allegations.
Michael was famously acquitted in 2005 after accusations were lodged against him for the alleged ual abuse of a 13-year-old boy. Despite the acquittal, these “damning accusations” continued to cast a long shadow, tainting the singer’s legacy even after his passing and leaving doubts in some people’s minds about what truly transpired at Neverland Ranch.
Prince recalled the intense period after his father’s death, sharing, “After he died, we got bombarded with [everything]. It was a shock. It all came at once.” This influx of information, encompassing both the abuse allegations and rumors about his father’s changing skin color, was undoubtedly overwhelming for a young man still processing grief.
Despite the overwhelming nature of these public discussions, Prince and his siblings developed a way to cope. He stated that they “learned how to deal with it by just kind of ignoring it.” Crucially, Prince has consistently stood by his father’s innocence, expressing his belief that the accusations were largely attempts at extortion. An insider further corroborated this unwavering loyalty, claiming to OK! Magazine that the children “will defend their dad until the end. They believe Michael when he said he was innocent.” This steadfast belief highlights the deep, unwavering bond and trust he holds for his father.
Now, we turn our attention to Michael’s other incredible children, Paris and Bigi, continuing our journey through their fascinating lives. Just like her older brother, Paris has carved out a unique path, stepping into the public eye with grace and courage. She’s not just Michael Jackson’s daughter; she’s a force of her own, embracing her talents and sharing her story with the world, all while holding her family close. It’s truly inspiring to see how she’s blossomed while honoring her father’s spirit.
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8. Paris Jackson’s Journey into Music: Striking Her Own Chord
Following in her father’s legendary footsteps, Paris Jackson has wholeheartedly embraced a career in music, though her sound is distinctly her own. Unlike the King of Pop’s iconic genre, Paris has chosen a more indie-folk approach, allowing her unique artistic voice to shine through. It’s a beautiful testament to her individuality, creating a sound that resonates deeply with her personal experiences and artistic vision.
Her dedication to her craft culminated in the release of her debut album, ‘Wilted,’ in 2020. This milestone was not just a personal achievement but a powerful statement of her commitment to music. It showcased her raw talent and served as an emotional outlet, allowing fans a glimpse into her world through heartfelt lyrics and melodies.
Adding a poignant layer to her burgeoning music career, Paris is set to play The O2 Arena as the support act for Incubus. This particular venue holds immense significance, as it’s the very same London arena where her father was scheduled to perform his final ‘This Is It’ concerts. It’s a full-circle moment that undoubtedly connects her journey profoundly to his, creating an almost poetic resonance that fans can truly appreciate.
9. Paris’s Flourishing Modeling and Acting Career: A Woman of Many Talents
Beyond her musical pursuits, Paris Jackson has effortlessly transitioned into the worlds of modeling and acting, demonstrating a versatility that truly sets her apart. Blessed with natural good looks, she has captivated the fashion industry, becoming a sought-after face for some of the most prominent campaigns. It’s clear she has a natural knack for the spotlight, embodying confidence and style in front of the camera.
Her striking presence has led her to front campaigns for several renowned brands, including Skims, KVD Beauty, and Calvin Klein. These collaborations highlight her ability to adapt to diverse aesthetics and appeal to a wide audience. It’s not just about her famous name; it’s her genuine talent and compelling persona that makes her a natural fit for these high-profile endorsements.
As if music and modeling weren’t enough, Paris has also made her mark as an actor. She has graced the screens in popular productions such as ‘American Horror Stories’ and ‘Star,’ proving her dramatic range and captivating presence. Her multifaceted career illustrates that she is truly a woman of many talents, continually exploring new avenues for creative expression and expanding her impressive portfolio.
10. Paris’s Brave Battle with Mental Health: A Journey of Self-Healing
While Paris’s professional career has seen her blossom into a talented and in-demand star, she has bravely faced her fair share of significant personal struggles behind the scenes. Growing up under the relentless public glare, coupled with the profound loss of her father, took an immense toll on her emotional well-being, leading to a challenging period of self-discovery and healing.
In a candid revelation to Rolling Stone, Paris shared that she attempted suicide “multiple times” by the age of 15, a heartbreaking admission that shed light on her deep internal pain. Her struggles culminated in 2015 when she was hospitalized after another possible suicide attempt, underscoring the severity of the emotional turmoil she was experiencing during her formative years.
Reflecting on this difficult period in 2018, Paris courageously opened up, stating, “It was just self-hatred. Low self-esteem, thinking that I couldn’t do anything right, not thinking I was worthy of living anymore.” This raw honesty offers a powerful glimpse into the depths of her despair. Fortunately, things have improved significantly; she sought treatment for her emotional well-being in 2019 and has since embraced a path toward healing and self-acceptance, expressing immense gratitude to still be alive.
She has also discussed the immense trauma of growing up in the spotlight, revealing, “people told me to kill myself everyday. And I was depressed.” Despite these overwhelming pressures, her journey is a testament to resilience, showing how she has navigated profound challenges and emerged with a deeper understanding of herself and a commitment to mental health advocacy.
11. Paris’s Authentic Expression of Identity and Sexuality: Living Her Truth
Paris Jackson has consistently been open and refreshingly candid about her uality over the years, choosing not to confine herself to traditional labels. This fearless approach to identity is a powerful statement, particularly within the often-rigid world of celebrity, and offers an inspiring example of living authentically. She firmly believes that connections are about the person, not their physical attributes.
In a revealing conversation with Willow Smith on ‘Red Table Talk’ in 2021, Paris explained her perspective, stating, “I wouldn’t consider myself biual because I’ve dated more than just men and women.” She further elaborated on her inclusive view of attraction, adding, “I’ve dated a man that had a vagina. It has nothing to do with what’s in your pants. It’s literally like, what are you like as a person?” This demonstrates a profound and progressive understanding of love and human connection.
Her openness, however, hasn’t always been easy, especially given her family’s deeply religious beliefs. Paris admitted that talking about her uality has been challenging, noting, “My family is very religious, and a lot of, like homosexuality, is very taboo, so we don’t talk about it, and it’s not really accepted.” This highlights the personal courage required to live her truth while navigating cultural and familial expectations.
Despite these complexities, Paris has reached a place of profound acceptance and respect. She shared, “I’ve gotten to a point where I respect them and I have love for them. I respect their beliefs. I respect their religion. I’m at a point where to expect them to put aside their culture and their religion … expectations lead to resentments. What people think about me isn’t my business.” Her maturity in handling such a personal and sensitive aspect of her life is truly admirable.
12. Paris’s Personal Milestones: Rekindled Relationships and Engagement
Amidst her professional endeavors and personal growth, Paris has also experienced significant milestones in her personal life, including rekindling a vital family connection. She has nurtured and rebuilt her relationship with her mother, Debbie Rowe, with whom she had limited contact during her childhood. Now, as adults, their bond has blossomed, with Paris sharing, “It’s just cool having her as a friend,” a heartwarming development that showcases growth and forgiveness.
Another exciting personal chapter unfolded in 2024 when Paris revealed to her fans that she was engaged to music producer Justin Long. The announcement came through a heartfelt Instagram post featuring a series of cherished pictures of the couple, including a special snapshot from the moment Justin proposed. Their relationship, which began in 2022, has evidently deepened, leading to this joyful commitment.
Her Instagram caption beautifully captured the depth of her feelings for Long: “Doing life with you these last years has been an indescribable whirlwind and i couldn’t dream of anyone more perfect for me to do it all with. thank you for letting me be yours. i love you.” It’s clear that Paris has found a loving and supportive partner with whom to share her life’s journey.
Additionally, Paris continues to honor her father’s memory in her own unique way. On what would have been Michael Jackson’s 65th birthday in 2023, she took to Instagram to acknowledge him, despite his personal aversion to celebrating his own birthday. On stage, she touchingly declared, “I owe everything to him,” expressing profound gratitude for his influence on her life and career. This demonstrates her enduring love and respect for the King of Pop.
13. Bigi Jackson: The Quietest Member of the Jackson Trio
Turning our attention to Michael Jackson’s youngest child, Bigi, born via surrogate in 2002, we find a strikingly different public persona compared to his older siblings. Bigi, who was formerly known by his nickname ‘Blanket’ during his childhood, has consistently chosen to keep the lowest profile among the Jackson children. His life remains remarkably private, far from the intense glare that Prince and Paris have often navigated.
This deliberate choice to remain out of the public eye underscores his desire for a sense of normalcy and personal space. While his siblings have embraced various public roles, Bigi has carved out a path that prioritizes quiet living. It’s a testament to his unique personality and perhaps a reflection of his father’s early efforts to shield him from the relentless scrutiny of the media.
Indeed, ‘Bigi is the most private of the siblings,’ as an insider shared. He lives independently, doesn’t need to work due to his inheritance, but chooses to engage in various hobbies that fulfill him. This demonstrates a thoughtful and grounded approach to life, allowing him to explore his interests away from the pressures of celebrity.
14. Bigi’s Emerging Passions for Global Causes and Self-Expression
Despite his preference for privacy, Bigi Jackson has, on rare occasions, offered glimpses into his passions and aspirations, revealing a thoughtful and globally-minded young man. In a rare 2021 interview with ‘Good Morning Britain,’ he shared his desire to make a positive impact on the world, stating, “That’s what each of us [siblings] want to do — make things that people enjoy but also benefit their lives.”
One of Bigi’s notable passions is climate change, a cause he feels strongly about. He expressed his commitment, explaining, “I do think it’s important we all know about it. We have some work to do but our generation knows how important it is.” This sentiment showcases a maturity and a forward-thinking perspective, demonstrating his awareness of global issues and his hope for future generations.
Beyond his environmental concerns, Bigi also previously took an interest in martial arts, as evidenced by photos obtained by the Daily Mail in 2017 showing him leaving a class. This early interest hints at a disciplined and active side to his personality. These sporadic revelations paint a picture of a young man who, despite his quiet nature, is engaged with the world and keen to contribute positively.
15. Bigi’s Rare Public Appearances and the Enduring Sibling Bond
Bigi Jackson’s public appearances are indeed a rare treat for fans, offering cherished moments when the famously private sibling steps into the spotlight. These occasions are typically significant family events, such as Prince’s graduation from Loyola Marymount University, where he proudly stood by his older brother, showcasing their enduring connection and mutual support.
Another notable appearance occurred on what would have been his father’s 65th birthday in August 2023. Bigi was spotted alongside Prince at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, attending the ‘Michael Jackson ONE’ show by Cirque du Soleil. During this event, Bigi was even seen taking photos with actor Myles Frost, who portrayed Michael Jackson in the Broadway show ‘MJ: The Musical,’ a true highlight for fans.
These public sightings, though infrequent, consistently underscore the incredibly close bond shared by the Jackson siblings. As Prince articulated to People, “At this point in our life, it doesn’t really feel like there’s that hierarchy of, ‘I’m the older brother.’ It’s more [that] we’re all siblings and we’re kind of all on that same level where my sister has her strengths, and my brother has his strengths, and where I’m not as strong in certain areas, they complement me in that way.”
Prince further emphasized the value of their time together: “Any moment that I get to spend with my siblings now, especially as we’re getting older and our own lives are starting to blossom and grow, every moment that I get with them, any little family dinner, any family outing, is really a special moment.” It’s a beautiful picture of family unity, a testament to the love and values their father instilled, making it clear that Michael would be “so happy” to see his children’s enduring connection and individual successes.
Through intense public scrutiny, profound loss, and individual journeys of self-discovery, Michael Jackson’s children—Prince, Paris, and Bigi—have not only navigated their unique paths but have also forged an unbreakable bond. Their stories are a testament to resilience, the power of family, and the enduring legacy of a father who, above all, wanted them to be happy and make a positive impact on the world. They continue to live their lives authentically, carrying forward the essence of the ‘King of Pop’ in their own distinct and meaningful ways.”
