Michael Jackson, the iconic King of Pop, left a lasting mark on music, culture, and entertainment. His ethereal voice, groundbreaking stage presence, and moonwalking moves captivated audiences worldwide for decades. But what about his children? How did they perceive their father’s legacy? Now at 22, Michael Jackson’s son finally confirms what we all knew all along.

Michael was born on August 29, 1958, to a large family. He was the eighth of the ten children of the Jackson family, raised in a home where music reigned supreme. His mother, Katherine Esther Jackson, was a Jehovah’s Witness who loved to play the clarinet and piano, and his father, Joseph Walter Jackson, was a former boxer who worked as a crane operator at US Steel and played guitar in a local rhythm and blues band, the Falcons.

Michael grew up with three sisters, Rebbie, La Toya, and Janet, and five brothers, Tito, Jackie, Randy, Marlon, and Jermaine. In 1964, their father formed the group popularly known as the Jackson Brothers or the Jackson Five. Michael and Marlon joined the band as backup musicians, playing the congas and tambourine.

Joe Jackson was known for his strict discipline, which Michael later revealed included physical and emotional abuse. Michael claimed that his father abused him and that he had no recollection of any good memories from his childhood. Despite this, the Jackson 5, later renamed the Jacksons, rose to fame, signing a contract with Motown Records and producing hits like “I Want You Back” and “ABC.”

Michael’s success with the Jackson 5 led to his solo career, where he became known for his vocals, dance skills, and stage charisma. Despite not having formal training, Michael’s voice and style evolved as he grew, from a boy soprano to a tenor. His talents brought him overwhelming fame, but at the cost of a lost childhood.

In 1993, during a Grammy Award acceptance speech, Michael stated, “My childhood was taken away from me. There was no Christmas, there were no birthdays. It was not a normal childhood.”

As a father, Michael took a different approach. He loved being a father and enjoyed taking care of his children himself. He married Debbie Rowe in 1996, and they had two children, Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. (Prince) and Paris-Michael Katherine Jackson. After their divorce in 2000, Michael had his third child, Prince Michael Jackson II (Blanket), through surrogacy.

Prince, Paris, and Blanket grew up with a deep understanding of their father’s fame and legacy. Prince, unlike his father, pursued a degree in Business Administration and has been involved in media production and charity work. Paris has followed in her father’s footsteps as a musician, model, and actress, though she has faced personal struggles. Blanket, who remains more private, shares his father’s love for music but has focused on his education.

Michael Jackson’s children continue to navigate the shadows of their father’s fame while forging their own paths. They honor their father’s memory and the magic he brought to the world. Michael wasn’t just known for his music and dance; he was also a philanthropist and humanitarian, contributing to various charities and raising awareness about global issues.

Michael Jackson’s legacy is multifaceted. He lived a life full of accomplishments and contributions to the world of music and beyond. He passed away on June 25, 2009, at the age of 50, due to acute propofol intoxication. His legacy lives on through his music, his children, and his humanitarian efforts.