The Legacy of Michael Jackson: Reflections from His Son, Prince
Michael Jackson, known globally as the King of Pop, left an indelible mark on the world with his groundbreaking music, mesmerizing dance moves, and iconic persona. Despite his larger-than-life image, to his children—Prince, Paris, and Bigi Jackson—he was simply a father who cherished and protected them.
Over the years, as Prince Michael Jackson Jr. has grown into adulthood, he has offered glimpses into the personal side of Michael Jackson that the public rarely saw, shedding light on what kind of father the music legend truly was.
Michael Jackson often spoke about how much his children meant to him. In various interviews, he expressed a deep love for fatherhood, describing it as one of his greatest joys. “I enjoy taking care of my children myself,” he once said. His commitment to his children was evident in the way he raised them, striving to give them a sense of normalcy despite the extraordinary circumstances of their lives.
Michael’s desire to protect his children from the intense scrutiny and pressures of fame was born out of his own experiences as a child star. He wanted to ensure that Prince, Paris, and Bigi had a childhood that was as normal and happy as possible.
Now 27 years old, Prince Jackson carries with him the wisdom and lessons his father imparted. In interviews, Prince has often reflected on the values that Michael instilled in him and his siblings.
He recalls the simple yet profound moments they shared as a family, from family dinners to ordinary outings, which Michael turned into cherished memories. These moments, Prince says, are what he treasures most as he looks back on his childhood.
One of the most significant lessons Michael taught his children was the importance of family and the unbreakable bond they shared. Prince has often spoken about how Michael emphasized that, no matter what challenges they faced, they would always have each other. This lesson has created a strong bond between Prince, Paris, and Bigi, one that has helped them navigate the challenges of growing up in the spotlight.
Carrying the Jackson name comes with great responsibility, and Prince Jackson takes this responsibility seriously. He has made it his mission to honor his father’s legacy, not just by protecting the Jackson name, but by continuing Michael’s philanthropic work.
Inspired by Michael’s Heal the World Foundation, Prince co-founded Heal Los Angeles, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting underprivileged communities in Los Angeles.
Heal Los Angeles focuses on providing educational resources and life skills training to underserved youth, reflecting Michael’s belief that children are the future and that investing in their potential is crucial for lasting progress. Prince’s work through Heal Los Angeles is a testament to the values his father instilled in him and his commitment to making a positive impact on the world, just as Michael did.
As Prince Jackson continues to grow and forge his own path, he does so with the lessons and values his father taught him guiding his way. He remains deeply committed to honoring Michael Jackson’s legacy, not just through his philanthropic work but also by living up to the high standards his father set.
Prince has often said that his father would be proud of what he and his siblings have accomplished, but he knows that Michael would also challenge them to keep striving for more.
For Prince, the journey of honoring his father’s legacy is ongoing, and it is a journey he embraces with passion and dedication. As he continues to build on the foundation Michael Jackson laid, Prince Jackson is ensuring that the King of Pop’s legacy of love, compassion, and excellence will live on for generations to come.