“I feel him with me all the time.”Since I was born, my dad has been the greatest father ever. I just want to tell him how much I love him. These were the words spoken by 11-year-old Paris Jackson at her father’s funeral, the person who meant everything to her.
It was truly devastating to lose a father at such a young age. Paris and her brothers suddenly became the center of attention. Out of nowhere, numerous magazines sought to capture a glimpse of Michael Jackson through them, resulting in overwhelming media coverage. Michael had always valued their privacy, but now they found themselves thrust into the spotlight.Following his passing, his mother, Katherine Jackson, took legal guardianship of his children. Paris resided with her until she turned 19, at which point she relocated to her father’s private studio within the family estate, where she converted it into a dorm-style bedroom.Paris, who celebrated her 23rd birthday on April 3, recently shared her thoughts on Michael Jackson in a YouTube interview with supermodel Naomi Campbell. In addition to discussing her modeling career and new album, she also talked about her upbringing.The young model and musician dropped her debut album called Wilted, an indie-folk record. Paris shared with Paper that it’s about heartbreak, love, and the emotions that follow a failed relationship. She mentioned being influenced by her father’s music and clearly got his talent.Paris mentioned that her father was diligent in ensuring they were well-rounded, educated individuals, rather than just exposing them to luxury and extravagance like staying in fancy hotels and five-star resorts.We witnessed it all, from third world countries to every part of the spectrum.Paris mentioned that despite being the King of Pop and very wealthy, Michael Jackson didn’t spoil his children. They were taught early on that they had to work for what they wanted.She mentioned that even as a child, they had to work for what they wanted. For example, if they wanted five toys from FAO Schwarz or Toys ‘R’ Us, they had to read five books.Achieving something through hard work is more valuable than simply expecting it or feeling entitled to it. It’s about putting in the effort and dedication to make it happen, which makes it a true accomplishment.In 2010, Paris, when she was young, shared about her early years at Neverland and expressed to Oprah that she believed her father was a great dad who was skilled in cooking. She saw him as a regular father figure.“He made the best French toast in the world,” Paris added.Paris began attending a private school in seventh grade, where she started spending time with friends who were significantly older than her. This resulted in various experiences that greatly affected her mindset. “I was engaging in activities that were inappropriate for someone my age, like 13, 14, or 15. I was trying to mature too quickly, and I wasn’t exactly a kind person,” she shared with Rolling Stone.Today, though, she has transformed into a whole new individual. She is excelling in both music and modeling, and her success knows no bounds. After graduating from high school in 2015, Paris is now treading the same path as her father. While she has a lot to live up to, she is definitely heading in the right direction.Several popular magazines were thrilled to feature this amazing woman on their covers. Despite that, she faced challenges with her appearance. “I’ve struggled with self-esteem for a long time,” she shared with Rolling Stone. “Some people think I’m unattractive, while others don’t. But when I’m modeling, I forget about my insecurities and concentrate on the photographer’s directions – and I feel beautiful. It’s a selfish feeling.”Even though it has been many years since Michael Jackson’s death, Paris still deeply mourns him every day. She has several tattoos dedicated to him and believes that she can still feel his presence. Paris shared with Rolling Stone that she lives her life with the mindset that she has lost the most significant thing to her. Therefore, any future hardships she faces cannot compare to the pain she has already endured, making her feel capable of handling anything that comes her way.