Paris Jackson Reflects on Her Father, Michael Jackson: A Legacy of Love and Complexity
Paris Jackson, daughter of Michael Jackson, shares insights on her father’s influence and the challenges of growing up in his shadow. Despite the unique upbringing, Paris cherishes the lessons and values instilled by her father, honoring his legacy through her work and personal reflections.
Paris recalls how Michael Jackson emphasized culture, education, and a broad worldview. “He exposed us to diverse environments, from five-star hotels to third-world countries,” she said, highlighting his efforts to foster gratitude and humility. Michael’s principle of earning accomplishments also shaped Paris’s work ethic, where even toys had to be earned through personal achievements like reading books.
The sudden death of Michael Jackson in 2009 was a significant blow to Paris. At his televised memorial service, she tearfully expressed, “He was the best father you could ever imagine.” This public display of love underscored their deep bond.
On what would have been Michael’s 65th birthday, Paris paid tribute to him during a performance. Holding a poster, she said, “He put 50 years of blood, sweat, and tears into doing what he did, so I owe everything to him.” Paris also shared that her father disliked birthday celebrations, revealing his wish for privacy. Her tribute honored his legacy while addressing the pressures of social media and public expectations.
