Jackson has appeared in music videos and was featured in The Jacksons: Next Generation. He released his debut single "Got Me Singing" in 2019. He will make his film debut by portraying his uncle, Michael Jackson, in the upcoming film Michael.
Early life
Jaafar Jackson was born in Franklin, LA on July 25, 1996. His father is Jermaine Jackson of the Jackson family and his mother is Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza, who previously dated Randy Jackson.[1] He started singing and dancing at the age of 12.[2] He also had aspirations to become a professional golf player.[3] In 2010, when he was thirteen, Jackson's family was investigated by police and child protection officers in Encino, Los Angeles after he purchased a stun gun online.[4][5][6]
Career
Jackson has covered songs by Sam Cooke and Marvin Gaye. In 2019, he released his first single, "Got Me Singing". He appeared in Jackson-related projects including The Jacksons: Next Generation and Tito Jackson music video "Love One Another" in 2021.[7] According to Empire, he "established a social media presence as a talented singer and dancer".[8]
After a two-year casting process,[9] Jackson was cast in the lead role of his uncle Michael Jackson in an upcoming biopic directed by Antoine Fuqua and distributed by Lionsgate.[10] Michael's mother Katherine Jackson was quoted as approving of the casting, saying he "embodies" her son.[11][12] Jaafar himself wrote on his personal Instagram account that he was "humbled and honored" to be cast in the role.[13] Principal photography began on the film on November 27, 2023 in Los Angeles, California.[14] Footage of Jackson playing the role emerged online shortly afterwards.[15][16]
Personal life
Jackson has a brother, Jermajesty Jermaine Jackson (b. 2000), and a number of half-siblings from his parents' previous relationships.[17] His half-siblings on his mother's side, Genevieve and Steven Jr., are also his cousins on his father's side, as they are the children of his uncle Randy Jackson. Jackson said he is inspired by his musical family, as well as artists like Bruno Mars, Frank Sinatra, and Stevie Wonder.[18]
