TJ Jackson | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : January 08, 2025

Who is TJ Jackson?

TJ Jackson, born Tito Joseph Jackson on July 16, 1978, is an American singer and member of the musical group 3T, which he formed with his brothers Tariano (Taj) and Taryll. The group gained significant recognition with their debut album, "Brotherhood," released in 1995, featuring the hit single "Anything." Their music career flourished under the guidance of family, including their uncle Michael Jackson, who produced several tracks for them. Despite personal hardships, including the tragic loss of their mother in 1994, TJ and his brothers carved out their niche in the music industry, remaining connected through their artistic pursuits and performing together at family tributes.

In addition to his music career, TJ Jackson has taken on a significant familial responsibility, becoming the temporary guardian of his late uncle Michael Jackson's children—Prince, Paris, and Blanket—after a tumultuous period in July 2012. Amidst a Jackson family feud over the estate of Michael Jackson, TJ stepped up to help safeguard the welfare of the children during a critical time. His involvement proved vital, as he was already an integral part of their lives. Ultimately, he was granted co-guardianship alongside their grandmother, Katherine Jackson, allowing him to provide stability and support to his younger relatives amidst the public turmoil surrounding them.

Early Life and Education

TJ Jackson, born Tito Joseph Jackson on July 16, 1978, grew up in Los Angeles, California, alongside his brothers Tariano (known as Taj) and Taryll. Their childhood was nurtured by their mother, Delores, who prioritized creating a normal family life despite the Jackson family's overwhelming fame. She ensured they experienced typical childhood joys, such as birthday parties, team sports, and family outings. This upbringing instilled in them a strong sense of family unity, which has remained a critical element in TJ's life and career.

As a student at the prestigious Buckley School in Los Angeles, TJ balanced his academic pursuits with his burgeoning music career and passion for baseball. Known for his talent on the diamond, he was one of the school’s standout players, demonstrating remarkable dedication by traveling back to Los Angeles for games even after international performances with his band, 3T. Additionally, during his teenage years, TJ had a brief relationship with Kim Kardashian, showcasing a glimpse into his life before rising to prominence within the entertainment industry.

Music Career with 3T

TJ Jackson, born Tito Joseph Jackson on July 16, 1978, is renowned for his musical career as a member of the group 3T, which he formed alongside his brothers Tariano (Taj) and Taryll. The trio carved out their niche in the pop music scene, debuting with their first album, "Brotherhood," in 1995. Notably, the album featured the hit single "Anything," which showcased the brothers' harmonies and allowed them to collaborate with family members, including their uncle Michael Jackson, who produced some tracks. This familial connection lent a unique essence to their music, embodying a blend of pop and R&B influences.

Despite their promising start, the group faced significant challenges, including the tragic loss of their mother, Delores, in 1994, just before their album's release. The emotional weight of this tragedy intertwined with their music, adding depth to their performances. They took a break from the spotlight after their debut and did not release a follow-up album, "Sex Appeal," until 2004. While the new album didn’t achieve the same level of success as their initial work, TJ and his brothers continued to engage with their audience through live performances. Their reunion in 2011 for a tribute concert honoring Michael Jackson reignited their musical journey, reminding fans of the legacy they share within the Jackson family.

Family Drama and Custody of Michael's Kids

In July 2012, TJ Jackson became a central figure in a high-profile family drama following the death of his uncle, the iconic Michael Jackson. After Michael's passing, his grandmother, Katherine Jackson, was appointed the legal guardian of his three children: Prince, Paris, and Blanket (Bigi). However, a media frenzy erupted when Katherine was reported missing by a family member while she was actually traveling in Arizona. This absence led to TJ being granted temporary custody of the children as concerns grew over their welfare, highlighting a rift within the Jackson family regarding guardianship and the management of Michael's estate.

TJ's involvement in the lives of Paris, Prince, and Blanket went beyond just temporary guardian duties; he was a consistent presence and reportedly a stabilizing force amidst the familial chaos. Sources indicated that the children adored TJ, seeing him as a trusted figure during a tumultuous period filled with uncertainty and speculation about their grandmother's whereabouts. Eventually, on August 2, 2012, a judge restored Katherine Jackson as the permanent guardian but also designated TJ as a co-guardian, recognizing his critical role in the children's lives and ensuring they continued to have a supportive and loving family presence despite the media scrutiny and internal family disputes.

Notable Achievements and Performances

TJ Jackson, along with his brothers Tariano (Taj) and Taryll, made significant strides in the music industry as the pop group 3T. They garnered attention with their debut album, "Brotherhood," released in 1995, which featured the hit single "Anything," showcasing their vocal talents and pop sensibilities. The album was notable not only for its catchy tunes but also for its familial connections; it included contributions from their uncle Michael Jackson, amplifying its appeal. This success paved the way for their second album "Sex Appeal" in 2004, although it did not achieve the same level of acclaim as their first.

In addition to their musical endeavors, the Jackson brothers performed together at a tribute concert in 2011 in Cardiff, Wales, honoring their late uncle Michael Jackson, who had passed away in 2009. This performance highlighted their enduring bond as a family and their commitment to celebrating their musical legacy. TJ’s involvement extended beyond music, as he took on the role of temporary guardian for Michael's three children—Prince, Paris, and Blanket—after a family dispute regarding their custody. This responsibility solidified his position as a trusted figure within the Jackson family, demonstrating his dedication to safeguarding the interests of the younger generation.

Personal Life: Relationship History

TJ Jackson's personal life has been intertwined with public interest and media scrutiny, especially given his family's prominence in the entertainment industry. Throughout his teenage years, Jackson was in a relationship with Kim Kardashian, who later rose to international fame through reality television and her business ventures. Their relationship was relatively low-key but drew attention due to both their rising status in the public eye. Jackson's connection with Kardashian highlighted the youthful spontaneity of their shared experiences before they embarked on their separate paths in the ever-evolving world of fame.

Beyond early romantic pursuits, Jackson has shown a deep commitment to family, especially following his role as a temporary guardian for his late uncle Michael Jackson's children. His dedication to Prince, Paris, and Blanket has been a defining aspect of his adult life, as he stepped up during tumultuous family dynamics that arose after Michael's passing. Jackson has often expressed that his bond with these children is built on love and trust, portraying him as a stabilizing figure amidst the chaos. This fatherly role has become crucial for him, showcasing his values centered around family unity and support in challenging times.

Net Worth and Earning: Income Overview

TJ Jackson, the talented musician and temporary guardian to his late uncle Michael Jackson's children, has built a diverse income portfolio throughout his career. As a member of the musical group 3T, he and his brothers achieved significant success in the 1990s, particularly with their hit single "Anything." The album "Brotherhood" sold well and featured contributions from their famous uncle, which helped elevate the group’s profile. Despite the challenges following the family tragedy in 1994, Jackson continued to pursue his musical ambitions while balancing his personal life and responsibilities.

In addition to his music career, Jackson's involvement in the management of Michael Jackson's estate has further contributed to his income. The Jackson family's intricate financial dynamics, particularly following Michael's death in 2009, placed TJ at the forefront of the estate's dealings. As a co-guardian of Michael's children, he not only plays a vital role in their upbringing but also directly influences the family's earnings through estate management decisions. With his combined income from music, business ventures, and guardianship responsibilities, TJ Jackson's net worth has seen steady growth over the years, reflecting both his personal efforts and his family's legacy.