Rebbie Jackson, the Eldest of the Jackson Siblings, Breaks Her Silence on Decades-Old Rumors
For decades, Rebbie Jackson, the eldest sibling of the legendary Jackson family, has kept a low profile, standing in the shadow of her famous brothers and sisters. While the world celebrated the achievements of Michael and Janet Jackson, Rebbie quietly pursued her own musical career, often shying away from the spotlight.
However, recent revelations from the reclusive star have brought her back into public view, as she opens up about her life, family, and the decades-old rumors that have surrounded her.
A Life in the Shadows of Stardom
Born on May 29, 1950, Rebbie Jackson was the first child of Joe and Katherine Jackson, growing up in Gary, Indiana. The Jackson household was one filled with music, discipline, and ambition. With Joe Jackson at the helm, the family would soon become one of the most famous musical dynasties in history, thanks to the Jackson 5’s meteoric rise in the late 1960s.
But while her brothers were thrust into the limelight, Rebbie often found herself playing a quieter role.
As the oldest of nine siblings, Rebbie naturally took on the role of a caregiver, looking after her younger brothers and sisters while their parents were focused on building the family’s musical empire. She cooked, cleaned, and helped raise the younger Jacksons, all while maintaining her own passion for music.
Despite her involvement in the early days of the Jackson 5, Rebbie preferred to stay in the background, away from the flashing lights and media frenzy.
Breaking Free: Rebbie’s Own Musical Journey
While Rebbie may have shunned the spotlight early on, she eventually stepped into the music world in her own right. In 1984, she released her debut album, Centipede, which garnered critical acclaim. The title track, written by none other than Michael Jackson, became a minor hit, establishing Rebbie as a talented artist in her own right.
Her deep, soulful voice resonated with fans, although her fame never reached the heights of her superstar siblings.
Despite her success, Rebbie chose to prioritize her personal life over her career. She married Nathaniel Brown in 1968 at the age of 18, a decision that reportedly caused tension with her father, Joe, who feared it would derail her career ambitions. The couple had three children—Stacee, Yashi, and Austin—and Rebbie embraced the stability and love that her marriage provided.
Decades of Rumors and Silence
Over the years, rumors have swirled around the Jackson family—stories of abuse, family feuds, and internal strife that have left the public wondering what truly went on behind closed doors. Rebbie, unlike her more outspoken siblings, remained largely silent, never engaging with the gossip or fueling the media’s fascination with her family.
One of the more persistent rumors has been related to her relationship with her father, Joe Jackson. Known for his strict, often domineering ways, Joe Jackson was a controversial figure, both feared and respected by his children. In the early 1990s, her sister La Toya Jackson publicly accused Joe of abuse, claims that shocked the world and led to a fractured relationship between La Toya and the rest of the family.
While Rebbie never confirmed these allegations, her decision to marry Nathaniel and move out of the family home at 18 was seen by some as an act of defiance against her father’s control. Nathaniel, who passed away in 2013 after battling cancer, was said to have been a source of strength for Rebbie, encouraging her to stand up to her father and live life on her own terms.
A Close Bond with Michael and Janet
One of the most touching aspects of Rebbie’s life has been her close bond with her siblings, particularly Michael and Janet. Despite the pressures of fame and the challenges that came with being in the public eye, Rebbie and Michael maintained a strong relationship.