There is so much being written about Michael Jackson (understandably so). His unparallelled talent, his global and post-racial influence, his financial troubles (possible millions of dollars in debt) and of course what some have dubbed his fall from grace. But I can’t stop thinking about Michael’s place in the Jackson family and wonder what will become of his children and his brothers—many of whom have been struggling for some time. Although he lived a life apart from his family he still seemed to be its center.
Michael was the sole custodial parent for all three of his children: Prince Michael I, Paris Michael, Prince Michael II. Debbie Rowe, the biological mother of the two oldest children doesn’t really interact with her children (but did have her parental rights reinstated a few years ago). Would Michael want his son and daughter back with her? His youngest child, also known as Blanket, is believed to have been born via a surrogate. Now his mother Katherine has taken custody (at least for the time being). But would that mean that Joe Jackson would have a hand in raising them? These children have lived ‘off the grid’ (for lack of a better word) for most of their lives with private tutors, bodyguards and so much more. With revelations of Michael’s enormous debt what will be their new reality? And how can the family protect them from overzealous fans and folks up to no good?
Then there are Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and Randy who had been trying hard to convince their brother to do a comeback tour with them. They were unsuccessful (Michael must have initially said yes because a tour promoter was suing him but in the end he refused). While they made up the rest of the group The Jackson 5 (later J5 and The Jacksons—when Randy joined them) it was Michael was the heart and soul of the group (even though Jermaine was initially the heart throb). Now that MIchael is gone I wonder whether they should think about doing a tour anyway, or would the lose of Michael be a void that can’t be filled? (I suspect it might be, but I’m not sure.)
As far as Michael’s music from his solo years goes, there was already talk about bringing “Thriller” to Broadway and there is already some version of “Thriller” playing in London’s West End. And we may see the day where MJ impersonators are the norm in Las Vegas (much like Elvis). But back to the family…
In the end, I can’t help remembering that the Jackson family shot to stardom from a working class existence in Gary, Indiana. Most of them have tasted fame and also seen its downside (Janet and Rebbie being the only exception) and now they’re experiencing immeasurable grief. My heart breaks for them and with them. I do hope that once they take the time to grieve that they can find a way to keep not only Michael’s legacy alive but that of the Jackson family too.
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