Paris Jackson opens up about her career and her father Michael Jackson!

Paris Jackson: Finding Her Voice Beyond the Shadow of Fame

At just eleven years old, Paris Jackson spoke at her father Michael Jackson’s funeral, offering words that resonated with millions. “Ever since I was born, daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine. And I just wanted to say I love him so much.” The death of the King of Pop left fans worldwide in mourning, but for Paris and her brothers, the loss was intensely personal. Overnight, they became not only grieving children but also subjects of relentless public scrutiny, thrust into a spotlight their father had long sought to shield them from.

In the wake of Michael’s passing, custody of Paris, Prince, and Blanket was placed with their grandmother, Katherine Jackson, who worked to provide stability amid a dramatically changed life. Paris navigated her teenage years under Katherine’s care, balancing ordinary adolescent challenges with the extraordinary weight of her father’s legacy. At nineteen, she chose to move into her father’s private studio on the Jackson family estate, transforming it into a bedroom that served as both sanctuary and homage to the man who shaped her world.

Now in her early twenties, Paris has begun carving her own path as a model and musician. Having turned twenty-three on April 3, she is exploring the balance between her father’s legacy and her personal identity. In a candid conversation with Naomi Campbell for YouTube, Paris spoke about her upbringing, her career, and the ways Michael’s guidance continues to influence her. She described him as a devoted parent who emphasized culture, education, and humility, ensuring that fame and luxury did not overshadow life lessons. “My dad was really good about making sure we were cultured, making sure we were educated, and not just showing us like the glitz and glam, like hotel hopping, five-star places,” she reflected.

This grounding has allowed Paris to pursue a career in the spotlight on her own terms. She has found success in modeling, appearing on magazine covers and working with high-end brands, while also pursuing music. Her debut album, Wilted, embraces indie-folk sensibilities and explores themes of heartbreak, love, and personal reflection. Paris described the record to Paper magazine as “mainly just a story of heartbreak and love, in general, and the thoughts and feelings that come after it doesn’t work out.” Though stylistically different from her father’s pop sound, her music carries echoes of his emotional expressiveness and artistry.

Paris has acknowledged her father’s influence while remaining determined to forge her own identity. Michael Jackson was a global icon who pushed creative boundaries, and Paris mirrors that spirit by refusing to be confined to one medium or persona. She has ventured into acting, released music, modeled professionally, and spoken publicly about mental health and self-discovery. Each endeavor reflects her creativity and resilience in the face of public scrutiny.

Growing up as Michael Jackson’s daughter posed unique challenges. Her siblings and she often wore masks in public, a decision designed to protect their privacy. After Michael’s death, the masks came off, and public attention intensified. Paris has been candid about her struggles with grief, identity, and the pressure of living under a globally recognized name. Yet, she consistently emphasizes gratitude for her father’s guidance and the values he instilled.

Through her storytelling—whether in interviews or through music—Paris shares an intimate view of her childhood. She recalls Michael not as the untouchable star but as a loving father who cooked, laughed, and prioritized his children’s happiness. These memories humanize Michael Jackson, offering a perspective seldom seen by the public.

Despite ongoing comparisons to her father, Paris has learned to navigate the shadow with grace. She honors Michael’s legacy while asserting her independence, choosing a path defined by her own creative choices. Her openness about mental health and personal struggles further reinforces her authenticity as an artist, connecting with audiences through raw, vulnerable expression.

Today, Paris Jackson represents both continuity and evolution. She carries the Jackson name with its weight and history, but she also carries her own voice and vision. Her journey is one of resilience, creativity, and self-discovery—transforming personal loss into art while defining herself beyond her father’s immense legacy.

Paris embodies lessons Michael imparted: valuing culture over glamour, substance over appearances, and authenticity over expectation. Her career and personal choices reflect these principles, proving that while she will always be Michael Jackson’s daughter, she is also Paris Jackson—artist, dreamer, and survivor.