Michael Jackson remains an enduring icon in music and entertainment, celebrated as the King of Pop even after his passing in 2009. To millions around the globe, he is a legend; to Paris Jackson, he was simply Dad. As one of the few people who truly knew the man behind the music and the glitz, Paris shares a deeply personal connection with her father, marked by precious moments that reveal the essence of Michael Jackson beyond the spotlight.
A Heartfelt Loss
The world mourned the loss of Michael Jackson on June 25, 2009, when he passed away at his Los Angeles home due to cardiac arrest caused by a lethal cocktail of drugs administered by his personal physician. At just 11 years old, Paris faced an unimaginable tragedy that would shape her life forever.
In a poignant interview with Rolling Stone in 2017, Paris revealed a touching detail about her father’s final moments. She shared that Michael wore a rope and jade bracelet from Africa when he died. “It still smells like him,” she said, emphasizing the sentimental value this bracelet holds for her. For Paris, this bracelet is more than just an accessory; it symbolizes the unbreakable bond she shares with her late father.
Beyond tangible reminders, Paris feels Michael’s presence in her life daily. “I feel him with me all the time,” she disclosed, illustrating how their connection transcends the physical realm.
Artistic Influence and Creative Legacy
Michael Jackson’s creativity profoundly impacted Paris’s artistic journey. In a conversation about her debut album, Wilted, she acknowledged the lasting influence of her father’s artistry. “I think he’ll always influence everything I do, whether it’s subconscious or intentional,” she noted. Growing up in a creative environment, Paris absorbed invaluable lessons from her father that continue to shape her music today.
Grounded Values and Education
Despite his immense fame and fortune, Michael Jackson emphasized the importance of remaining grounded. Paris often speaks about how he instilled in her the values of humility and compassion. In an interview with Naomi Campbell on No Filter, she emphasized her father’s dedication to providing her with a well-rounded education. “My dad was really good about making sure we were cultured,” she recalled, sharing how he exposed her to different aspects of life, including visits to third-world countries.
Michael’s commitment to education extended to the household dynamics, as he insisted on balancing academics with leisure activities. Paris shared how he incentivized her reading by promising trips to Toys “R” Us if she finished a certain number of books. This dedication to learning and understanding the world played a crucial role in shaping Paris’s outlook on life.
Embracing Identity and Heritage
Paris Jackson’s journey toward self-discovery includes a strong emphasis on her identity and heritage. Despite the differences in their appearances—Michael’s struggles with vitiligo contrasted with Paris’s lighter skin—he encouraged her to embrace their shared Black heritage. “I consider myself Black,” Paris affirmed in a 2017 Rolling Stone interview, recalling her father’s reassurances of pride in their lineage.
The Path Forward
As Paris forges her own path in the entertainment industry, she is committed to earning her success independently. She believes in the importance of authenticity and hard work, stating, “I’m also a full believer that I should earn everything.” Her determination to carve out her identity while honoring her father’s legacy reflects the profound lessons he instilled in her.
In sharing her experiences and the values her father imparted, Paris Jackson honors Michael’s memory and continues to inspire others with her journey of self-discovery, creativity, and compassion.