Last updated on: August 22, 2025
Michael Jackson was the most renowned singer on Earth. He is nicknamed the “King of Pop.” He was Janet Jackson’s older brother as well. Along with his family, he contributed toward forming contemporary pop music.
Quick Facts About Michael Jackson
| Full Name | Michael Joseph Jackson |
| Birthdate
Death |
August 29, 1958
25 June 2009 |
| Occupation | Singer, songwriter, dancer, philanthropist |
| Husband/Wife | Lisa Marie Presley (1994–1996), Debbie Rowe (1996–1999) |
| Education | Attended schools in Gary, Indiana (no formal college) |
| Age | 50 (at the time of death) |
| Parents | Joseph Jackson, Katherine Jackson |
| Siblings | La Toya Jackson, Rebbie Jackson, Jackie Jackson, Tito Jackson, Joh’Vonnie Jackson, Jermaine Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Brandon Jackson, Randy Jackson, Janet Jackson |
| Children | Michael Joseph “Prince” Jackson Jr., Paris-Michael Katherine Jackson, Prince Michael “Bigi” Jackson II |
| Net Worth | Estimated $500 million at the time of death |
Early Life
Michael Joseph Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana. Michael was the eighth of the ten children born to Joseph and Katherine Jackson. Michael was raised in a big family with numerous siblings. His elder brothers and sisters were Rebbie, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, La Toya, Marlon, and Brandon (died at birth). Michael also had a younger sister, Janet Jackson, and a half-sister, Joh’Vonnie Nakia Jeboo Jackson.
Michael enjoyed music from an early age. He sang with his brothers often. His parents realized his talent and motivated him to sing.
Career Start
Michael initially became popular as the frontman of the Jackson 5. The members were Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon. They were signed by Motown Records in 1969. Their songs such as I Want You Back and ABC became hugely popular.
Michael’s voice and stage presence were exceptional. Everyone was shocked at his talent as a child. This initial success prepared him for a solo career.
Solo Career
Michael began his solo career in the late 1970s. His album Off the Wall (1979) was a smash hit. And then there was Thriller in 1982. Thriller turned out to be the best-selling album of all time.
He came out with some other albums such as Bad (1987), Dangerous (1991), and HIStory (1995). Michael was renowned for his distinctive dance steps, one of which was the moonwalk. He also revolutionized the way people viewed music videos. His videos were akin to short films and not merely performances.
Personal Life
Michael Jackson wed Lisa Marie Presley in 1994. The two divorced after two years. He wed Debbie Rowe in 1996, and the couple produced two children: Prince and Paris Jackson. He had a third child, Bigi Jackson, through surrogacy.
Michael was secretive about his personal life. Even though he was famous, he attempted to give his kids a normal childhood.
Relation to Janet Jackson
Michael was the elder brother of Janet Jackson, who also gained a global reputation as a singer. Janet is the youngest of Joseph and Katherine Jackson‘s children. She has been three times married: to James DeBarge, to René Elizondo Jr., and to Wissam Al Mana. She has one child, a son, Eissa Al Mana.
Michael and Janet both made great contributions to music. They gained a huge following of fans globally.
READ ALSO: Janet Jackson Net worth, Age, Husband, Family, Facts & More
Legacy
Michael Jackson died on June 25, 2009, aged 50. His death was from a drug overdose, the night before a scheduled comeback tour.
Michael’s music and legacy even after his death remain robust. He is still remembered as one of the world’s greatest entertainers. His records, dance, and performances continue to inspire artists today.
The Jackson family, Michael and Janet, are sometimes referred to as the “First Family of Soul” or the “Royal Family of Pop.” They revolutionized the music business and made an enduring impact on pop culture.
