Paris Jackson, the only daughter of the legendary pop icon Michael Jackson, has grown up under the intense glare of public scrutiny. From the moment she was born, the world watched as she navigated life as the child of one of the most famous entertainers in history. But beyond the fame and wealth, Paris has had to answer a deeply personal question—how she identifies herself.

She has spoken openly about her racial identity, making it clear that, despite her mixed heritage, she identifies as a Black woman. It is a declaration rooted in the guidance and influence of her father, who instilled in her a deep sense of pride in her roots.

Growing Up as Michael Jackson’s Daughter

Born on April 3, 1998, to Michael Jackson and Debbie Rowe, Paris was introduced to the world through a lens of mystery. Michael, fiercely protective of his children, shielded them from the media with masks and veils, trying to give them a normal childhood despite the global attention surrounding them.

As she grew older, the public fascination with her and her brothers—Prince and Bigi—only intensified. When their father passed away in 2009, Paris and her siblings were suddenly exposed to an overwhelming level of attention. Without Michael to protect them, they became prime targets for paparazzi and tabloid speculation.

Paris later revealed that the pressure of constant media attention took a serious toll on her mental health. She developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to the constant sound of camera shutters and admitted that by the time she was 15, she had attempted suicide multiple times. In 2019, she entered a treatment facility to prioritize her well-being.

Video: Paris Jackson Reveals Michael Jackson’s Untold Story | Part 1

A Close Bond with Her Brothers

Despite the challenges, Paris has leaned on her older brother Prince for support. She has spoken candidly about how much she looks up to him, considering him a mentor and protector.

Prince, in turn, has described Paris as being more like their father than anyone else in their family. He believes that she inherited Michael’s passion, strengths, and even some of his weaknesses. Their strong sibling bond has helped both of them navigate the complexities of life in the public eye.

Embracing Her Father’s Legacy in Music and Fashion

Paris has found her own voice in the world of entertainment. She has walked the runway for major fashion brands like Chanel and pursued a career in music as the lead vocalist and guitarist for the band The Soundflowers.

Acknowledging the influence of her famous last name, she embraces her musical background while carving her own unique path. While many expected her to follow in her father’s pop music footsteps, she has gravitated toward folk and indie sounds, proving that her artistry is deeply personal and authentic.

How She Connects with Her Father on Race

Michael Jackson’s changing appearance over the years led to widespread speculation. Many assumed he was intentionally altering his skin tone, but he repeatedly stated that he suffered from vitiligo, a condition that causes the loss of skin pigmentation. In a 1993 interview with Oprah Winfrey, he firmly expressed his pride in his African-American heritage, stating that he had never tried to distance himself from his race.

Paris has carried that same sentiment forward. In a 2017 interview with Rolling Stone, she openly discussed how her father made sure she understood her identity.

She recalled that Michael would look her in the eyes, point his finger at her, and firmly tell her, “You’re Black. Be proud of your roots.” Despite her fair complexion, she believed her father’s words and never doubted the identity he instilled in her.

However, her self-identification as a Black woman has sparked debate. Due to her light skin, blonde hair, and blue eyes, many people have questioned her statement. She has acknowledged this skepticism, joking that strangers often assume she is from Finland. Yet, for her, the connection to her father’s identity and teachings outweighs public perception.

Facing Criticism for Her Identity

Video: Paris Jackson Defends Father Michael’s Legacy Against ‘Urban Myths’ Portrayal by Joseph Fiennes

Not everyone has supported Paris’s stance. Television host Wendy Williams publicly mocked her for identifying as Black, arguing that race is not just about what someone calls themselves but how they are perceived by society. She implied that Paris’s appearance does not align with the struggles that many Black individuals face, particularly in encounters with law enforcement and systemic discrimination.

Despite such criticism, Paris has remained steadfast in her belief. She views her identity through the lens of her father’s teachings and the cultural heritage he passed down to her.

A Life Defined by Love and Loss

Beyond the discussions of race and fame, Paris Jackson’s life has been marked by both immense love and heartbreaking loss. Losing her father at a young age shaped much of who she is today. She continues to honor his memory not just through music but through the values he instilled in her.

She has also worked to overcome personal struggles, learning to prioritize mental health and self-acceptance. She has spoken openly about therapy, self-harm, and learning to love herself after years of self-doubt.

Paris Jackson’s Journey Forward

Paris Jackson has never tried to fit into the mold the public expected of her. Whether in music, fashion, or personal identity, she has remained unapologetically herself. She honors her father’s legacy while forging her own path, proving that she is more than just Michael Jackson’s daughter—she is an artist, an advocate, and a survivor.

Her story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of a father’s influence that lasts beyond a lifetime. Whether people agree with her or not, one thing is certain—Paris Jackson is determined to live her truth, just as her father taught her to do.