Cover Michael Jackson performs at the Super Bowl XXVII Halftime show in 1993 (Photo: Getty images)
Michael Jackson performs at the Super Bowl XXVII Halftime show in 1993 (Photo: Getty images)
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It’s been 14 years since Michael Jackson passed away, but his legacy remains strong. We take a closer look at the icon’s life, from his early days as part of The Jackson 5 to his friendships with Hollywood’s leading ladies
Michael Jackson, aka the King of Pop, dominated the global music charts from the ’80s until his death in 2009. Throughout his reign, the legendary singer has mesmerised the world with his stage presence, his signature dance moves and his iconic songs. But his influence on global pop culture goes far beyond that, and his personal history remains a mystery.
Here, we uncover three untold stories about Michael Jackson, from his early childhood inspirations to his lasting friendships.
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Michael Jackson’s childhood under his strict father
Above The Jackson brothers pose for a portrait in Los Angeles, 1972. From left: Jackie, Jermaine, Michael, Tito and Marlon Jackson (Photo: Getty Images)
The Jackson brothers pose for a portrait in Los Angeles, 1972. From left: Jackie, Jermaine, Michael, Tito and Marlon Jackson (Photo: Getty Images)
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Jackson began his career as a child artist as part of American pop band The Jackson 5, which also included his four siblings as band members. Throughout his childhood, he endured rigorous training under the strict guidance of his father. In 2003, his father, Joseph, admitted to having disciplined young Michael with a switch and a belt, subjecting him to both physical and emotional pain during relentless rehearsals. Despite these challenging experiences, Michael believed that even though his father had caused him harm, the strict methods served as a catalyst for his eventual success.
Michael Jackson’s friendships with Shirley Temple and Elizabeth Taylor
Shirley Temple was one of Michael Jackson’s close friends (Photo: Getty images)
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Adulation by millions—both on and offstage—was part and parcel of Michael Jackson’s public life. However, like many other renowned stars, he too experienced moments of loneliness behind the spotlight, but he did have a few enduring friendships in his life. The book The Michael Jackson Tapes: A Tragic Icon Reveals His Soul in Intimate Conversation (2009), written by Jackson’s close friend and spiritual guide, Shmuley Boteach, reveals that the music legend’s closest friends were two remarkable women: Shirley Temple, actress, singer and diplomat who won a special Juvenile Oscar as a child star; and Elizabeth Taylor, the renowned Hollywood actress.
Michael Jackson’s support of humanitarian causes
Michael Jackson is best known for his music, but his humanitarian work also touched thousands of people (Photo: Getty Images)
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Michael Jackson actively supported humanitarian activities throughout his life. In 2000, he was recognised by the Guinness World Records for his contributions to more than 39 charitable organisations, surpassing any other living artist.
He was also known for spreading the message of universal love through his music. One of his most iconic songs, Heal the World, released in 1991, called for global peace, urging people to protect and cherish the earth by avoiding wars.
His popularity also breathed life into the record industry. In an obituary after Jackson’s death in 2009, Time magazine described him as a “saviour who revitalised the record industry, a composer of the music era, a dancer with incredible feet, and a singer who shattered boundaries of style and race”. His music spanned various genres, from pop and soul to R&B and rock.
This story was originally written in Chinese by Tim Ku and published on August 31, 2023.
