Paris Jackson, the daughter of the iconic pop star Michael Jackson, has opened up about her identity, sharing why she considers herself a Black woman, despite having fair skin.
Paris Jackson’s Identity
Born to famed parents Debbie Rowe and Michael Jackson in 1998, Paris has carved a path in the entertainment world similar to her father’s illustrious career. Over the years, as an actress, model, and singer, she has found herself addressing questions about her racial identity.
Michael Jackson, known worldwide for his music, began his career as a child performer with the Jackson 5, a group that included his siblings. Despite his later fame and notably lighter skin, which was linked to a condition called Vitiligo, Michael Jackson was born with a rich African-American heritage. It is this cultural legacy that Paris identifies with when she says she feels Black.
Paris on Being Black
In a candid interview with Rolling Stone magazine, Paris disclosed that her father, Michael, emphasized her heritage. “[He] would look me in the eyes and he’d point his finger at me and he’d be like, ‘You’re black. Be proud of your roots,’” she recounted.
Paris has faced skepticism, particularly regarding her fair complexion. Many mistakenly presume she might be from a northern European country, like Finland, due to her looks. However, she compares her circumstances to others of mixed heritage, such as Wentworth Miller, famed for his role in ‘Prison Break.’
Public Response
Her statements about identifying as Black have sparked a variety of reactions. Some, like talk show host Wendy Williams, questioned Paris’ identity perception versus how society might view her based on appearance alone. Nevertheless, Paris firmly holds onto the identity her father taught her to cherish.
Michael Jackson himself, throughout his life, faced curiosity and judgment regarding his skin color changes. In a 1993 interview with Oprah Winfrey, he clarified the nature of his condition—an autoimmune condition causing skin depigmentation, which he maintained was never altered through cosmetic procedures apart from a nose surgery.
In this landscape of mixed personal experiences and public scrutiny, Paris Jackson’s story highlights the understanding of racial identity—not merely as a matter of skin color but as a reflection of cultural legacy and personal history. Her journey in accepting and asserting her identity is a testament to her father’s influence and her own commitment to that heritage.