Paris Jackson, the only daughter of the late pop music legend Michael Jackson, has opened up about her identity, proudly stating that she identifies as a black woman despite being of mixed race.
Reflecting on her father’s influence, she mentions how he always encouraged her to embrace her heritage with pride. Paris recalls her father’s words, “be proud of your roots,” as she embraces both the musical prowess and African-American lineage of her father.
Let’s delve deeper into Paris Jackson’s proud identity!
Paris Jackson, who came into the world on April 3, 1998, is an accomplished American actress, model, and singer. She is the daughter of revered pop star Michael Jackson and Debbie Rowe.
Now 25 years old, Paris, alongside her brothers Bigi, 22, and Prince, 27, grew up under the public’s constant gaze, with fans eager to learn about the latest generation of the Jackson family.
During their childhood, the iconic singer of “Billie Jean” took earnest precautions to shield his children from media scrutiny, often using blankets, masks, and veils for anonymity.
Back in 2007, Jackson’s personal bodyguard shared with People magazine that the three children were “well-mannered and well-behaved,” emphasizing that their father considered them top priority.
However, with Michael’s passing in 2009, the protective barriers vanished, thrusting the young Jacksons into the relentless public spotlight, all while the paparazzi hungrily pursued them for stories and photos.
This drastic change led to Paris suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, commonly known as PTSD. She confessed, “I experience audio hallucinations sometimes with camera clicks. I deal with severe paranoia and have attended therapy to help cope, amongst other things.”
Tragically, she also disclosed that by the age of 15, she attempted to take her own life multiple times and entered a treatment center in 2019 to find solace and healing.
She revealed, “I was battling self-hatred, extremely low self-esteem, feeling like I couldn’t do anything right, and not believing I was worthy of life.”
‘She is who my dad is’
Paris Jackson finds immense support in her elder brother Prince Michael Jackson. In a heartfelt expression, she stated, “He’s just everything to me.” In a 2020 discussion with People, she spoke of her bond with Prince, “I’ve always admired him, sought his approval, and wanted to be more like him.”
Prince, however, sees a strong reflection of their father in his sister. “At her core, she embodies who my father was. The only difference is her age and gender.”
He elaborates that Paris resembles their father in her strengths and, admittedly, some weaknesses too. Her passion is one defining trait that mirrors her father’s.
Apart from her undying passion for her craft—Paris has graced the runway for prestigious brands like Chanel, and leads the band The Soundflowers as the vocalist and guitarist—she’s also dedicated to upholding her father’s legacy.
“Music runs in the family. Being a Jackson, it’s only natural I gravitate towards music. But a Jackson diving into folk indie music?” she mused in 2020.
Honoring her heritage
Race is another connection Paris shares with her celebrated father.
Although in later years, Michael Jackson’s skin appeared lighter—due to his battle with Vitiligo, a condition affecting skin pigmentation—he hailed from African-American roots, sporting a darker complexion during his youth.
Michael Jackson faced numerous unfounded accusations about altering his appearance through his life, firmly denying rumors of skin bleaching.
In his candid 1993 sit-down with Oprah Winfrey, the
