Paris Jackson, Michael Jackson’s only daughter, has navigated a life under the intense scrutiny that comes with being the child of a global icon. Despite the challenges, she has carved out her own path while carrying the profound impact of her father’s legacy.
Michael Jackson as a Father: Paris’s Reflections
Growing up as Michael Jackson’s daughter, Paris experienced a unique childhood. In various interviews, including a notable discussion with supermodel Naomi Campbell, Paris has shared insights into the deep influence her father had on her life. She describes Michael not only as a global superstar but also as a devoted father who went to great lengths to ensure his children were well-rounded and educated.
Paris recalls how her father stressed the importance of culture and education. Michael ensured that his children were exposed to more than just luxury, taking them from five-star hotels to third-world countries to give them a broad perspective on the world. This upbringing helped Paris appreciate diverse human experiences and fostered a deep sense of gratitude and humility.
One crucial lesson Paris learned from Michael was the importance of earning one’s achievements. Michael instilled a strong work ethic in his children, teaching them that privilege should be balanced with personal effort. Paris shared that even simple desires, like toys, were tied to personal accomplishments, such as reading books. This principle of earning her way has influenced her approach to life and her career in the entertainment industry.
The Personal Impact of Michael’s Death
Michael Jackson’s sudden death in 2009 was a profound loss for Paris, who was just 11 years old at the time. During his televised memorial service, Paris tearfully expressed that her father was “the best father you could ever imagine.” This public declaration of love and grief highlighted the deep bond they shared.
Paris’s Tributes and Reflections
On what would have been Michael Jackson’s 65th birthday, Paris paid a heartfelt tribute during her performance at Las Colonias Park Amphitheater in Colorado. In a touching moment captured in a video she shared on Instagram, Paris reflected on her father’s legacy, saying, “He would have been 65 years old today. He put 50 years of blood, sweat, tears, love, and passion into his work, so that I can stand here and perform. I owe everything to him.”
Before her stage performance, Paris posted a video from her dressing room, sharing personal memories of Michael’s attitude toward his birthday. She revealed, “He used to dislike anyone acknowledging his birthday or celebrating it. He didn’t want us to even know when his birthday was to avoid any parties.”
Paris, who was just 11 when her father passed away, has since seen increased public interest in her and her family. She also commented on the pressures of social media expectations regarding familial relationships, noting, “Social media seems to be how people express their love these days. If you don’t wish someone a happy birthday on social media, it’s taken to mean that you don’t care.”
Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, shared his life with the world, including his children: Prince (Michael Jackson Jr.), Prince Michael Jackson II (formerly Blanket, now Bigi), and Paris, his daughter with ex-wife Debbie Rowe. Michael and Debbie were married from 1996 to 2000, and their youngest son was born in 2002. Paris’s tribute not only honored her father’s artistic legacy but also highlighted the personal struggles and pressures faced by those left behind.