Paris Jackson, daughter of the legendary Michael Jackson, has opened up about her childhood, sharing insights into her father’s unique parenting style and the values he instilled in her. While Michael Jackson was known to the world as the King of Pop, to Paris, he was simply “dad”—a loving, protective, and disciplined father who prioritized education, culture, and humility over the glitz and glamour of fame.
A Childhood Focused on Education and Culture
Paris revealed that Michael Jackson was deeply committed to ensuring his children were well-educated and culturally aware. He didn’t want them to grow up spoiled by the luxury that came with being his children. Instead, he encouraged them to learn about the world in a meaningful way.
She recalled that her father always made sure she and her brothers, Prince and Blanket, were exposed to different cultures and perspectives. This included traveling to various countries and learning about different traditions, customs, and histories. Michael wanted them to understand life beyond the celebrity bubble. According to Paris, he taught them to appreciate the world’s diversity and to be grateful for what they had.
The Value of Hard Work
One of the most significant lessons Michael Jackson passed down to his children was the importance of hard work. Paris mentioned that if she and her siblings wanted something—whether it was toys, privileges, or even a simple treat—Michael would have them read books or complete educational tasks first.
This method was his way of teaching them discipline and the idea that rewards must be earned. He wanted his children to be independent and not feel entitled because of their father’s fame. Paris has spoken about how this mindset stayed with her throughout her life, shaping her work ethic and perspective on success.
Exposure to Music and Art
Growing up in a household filled with music, Paris and her siblings were introduced to a variety of genres at an early age. Michael ensured that they didn’t just listen to pop music but also explored classical, jazz, hip-hop, R&B, and rock. He wanted them to develop an appreciation for all forms of music, which greatly influenced Paris’s own journey as a musician.
She has since followed in her father’s footsteps by pursuing a career in music, although her style is distinctively different from Michael’s. Paris has embraced alternative and folk-rock elements in her music, crediting her father for exposing her to a wide range of artistic influences.
A Private and Humble Life
Despite being one of the most famous people in the world, Michael Jackson preferred a private and humble lifestyle when it came to his family. Paris revealed that he deliberately never told his children when his birthday was. He didn’t like celebrations that put him in the spotlight, as he believed they were unnecessary. Instead, he focused on creating meaningful experiences rather than grand gestures.
His emphasis on privacy extended to how he raised his children. He famously covered their faces with masks in public to protect them from the media frenzy. While some people misunderstood this at the time, Paris now understands that he was only trying to shield them from the intense scrutiny of the press.
Michael’s Lasting Influence
Looking back, Paris deeply appreciates the way her father raised her. His lessons in education, hard work, humility, and cultural awareness have shaped her into the person she is today. She has often spoken about how grateful she is for the values he instilled in her and how she carries his teachings forward in her own life.
Michael Jackson may have been a global icon, but to Paris, he was a dedicated and loving father who prioritized his children’s growth and well-being over fame and fortune. His influence continues to live on through her, not just in music but in the way she approaches life—with curiosity, resilience, and an open heart.