Last updated on: August 22, 2025
Jackie Jackson is most famously known as the oldest brother of the renowned Jackson family. He was raised through music and served as a member of The Jackson 5, the most successful pop group in history. As his siblings such as Michael and Janet achieved world fame, Jackie contributed substantially to establishing the Jackson legacy.
Quick Facts About Jackie Jackson
| Full Name | Sigmund Esco “Jackie” Jackson |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | May 4, 1951 |
| Occupation | Singer, Songwriter, Producer |
| Husband/Wife | Emily Besselink (m. 2012), Ex-wife: Enid Spann (m. 1974–1986) |
| Education | Theodore Roosevelt High School |
| Age | 74 years and 7 months old |
| Parents | Joe Jackson (father), Katherine Jackson (mother) |
| Siblings | La Toya Jackson, Rebbie Jackson, Tito Jackson (d. 2024), Jermaine Jackson, Joh’Vonnie Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Brandon Jackson (died shortly after birth), Michael Jackson (d. 2009), Randy Jackson, Janet Jackson |
| Children | 4 (including twin boys with Emily) Brandi Jackson, Sigmund Esco Jackson, Jr. |
| Net Worth | About $200 million (estimated) |
Early Life and Family
Sigmund Esco Jackson was born Jackie Jackson on May 4, 1951, in Gary, Indiana, USA. He is the oldest son of Joe Jackson and Katherine Jackson.
His parents brought ten children into the world altogether. Jackie’s brothers and sisters are Rebbie, Tito, Jermaine, La Toya, Marlon, Michael, Randy, and Janet. He also had a twin brother named Brandon, who unfortunately died soon after birth. Jackie’s half-sister Joh’Vonnie Jackson was born out of his father Joe’s extramarital affair.
The Jacksons lived an ordinary life in Gary before becoming famous. Their dad, Joe, noticed talent in his kids and created a group that would one day revolutionize music.
The Jackson 5 and Rise to Fame
Jackie joined The Jackson 5 as an original member with Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael. The group was signed to Motown Records in 1968 and became extremely popular instantly. Their hits such as “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There” were at the top of the charts.
Jackie was famous for having a high tenor voice and silky stage presence. He would frequently sing background harmonies and occasionally lead. Although Michael was the group’s main attraction, Jackie’s contribution was significant in helping to define their sound.
The Jackson 5 were the first act to have their first four singles peak at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. They were also the first to cross racial lines, leading African-American artists to new heights of international success.
Solo Career and Other Work
Jackie eventually attempted a solo career. He issued his first album, “Jackie Jackson,” in 1973, and another titled “Be the One” in 1989. Although his solo efforts did not achieve the same level of success as Michael or Janet, it demonstrated his abilities aside from the group.
Later in his life, Jackie was involved in music production and business. He assisted in developing projects to keep the Jackson name renowned. He also starred in the family reality show, “The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty,” in 2009.
Personal Life
Jackie has been married twice. He first got married to Enid Spann in 1974. They had two kids before they divorced in 1986. Later in 2012, Jackie got married to Emily Besselink, and the two got twin boys in 2013.
As a father, Jackie has maintained a close relationship with his children. Despite spending most of his life under the limelight, he is family and privacy oriented.
Connection to Janet Jackson
Jackie is also referred to as the older brother to Janet Jackson, who is the youngest member of the family. Janet later became a globally renowned singer, actress, and dancer. The relationship demonstrates how the Jackson family held their hands together professionally.
Janet’s life has also been peppered with family moments. She was married three times: James DeBarge (1984–1985), René Elizondo Jr. (1991–2000), and Wissam Al Mana (2012–2017). She has a son, Eissa Al Mana, born in 2017.
Along the way, Jackie has stayed close to Janet and his other siblings.
READ ALSO: Janet Jackson Net worth, Age, Husband, Family, Facts & More
Legacy
Jackie Jackson might not have achieved the solo stardom of his younger brothers and sister, but he is no less an important figure in the history of music. Working with The Jackson 5, he paved the way for Michael and Janet’s success. His smooth singing voice, charisma, and presence entertained fans for decades.
Jackie still celebrates his family’s music today while spending time with his kids. His tale reminds us that there are siblings behind every superstar who contributed to the process.
