Born as Prince Michael Jackson II on February 21, 2002, Blanket Jackson is the youngest child of the late pop icon Michael Jackson. Despite his unique name, Blanket has largely stayed out of the public eye. In recent years, he has changed his name to Bigi Jackson to carve out his own identity beyond his famous father’s shadow.
Michael Jackson’s children have always been the subject of immense media attention, but among them, Bigi remains the most mysterious. While his siblings, Paris and Prince Jackson, have stepped into the entertainment world and public activism, Bigi prefers to stay behind the scenes. Still, as a Jackson, curiosity about his life never fades. This article dives deep into who Blanket Jackson is, his early life, his transformation into Bigi Jackson, and what his future might hold.
Why Was He Named Blanket?
Michael Jackson gave his son the nickname “Blanket” as a term of endearment. The name symbolized the concept of “blanketing” someone with love and protection. Michael often spoke about how he wanted his children to be surrounded by love and a feeling of safety, which is why he chose the nickname for his youngest child.
However, as he grew older, Blanket distanced himself from the moniker, preferring to go by Bigi. The change in name was not only a reflection of personal growth but also a way to escape the teasing and unwanted attention that came with such a unique nickname.
Early Life in the Spotlight
From a young age, Blanket Jackson was one of the most talked-about celebrity kids. His most memorable early moment was when Michael Jackson famously dangled him over a hotel balcony in Berlin in 2002. The incident, meant as a playful gesture toward fans, quickly turned into global controversy, with many questioning Michael Jackson’s parenting decisions. Though Michael later apologized for the incident, it remains a defining moment in Blanket’s early years.
Following this, Michael kept his children shielded from the public eye. They were often seen in public wearing masks or scarves over their faces to maintain anonymity. This secrecy led to widespread speculation about the children and their upbringing.
Life After Michael Jackson’s Death
The death of Michael Jackson in 2009 sent shockwaves through the world, leaving his children in an unimaginable situation. Unlike his older siblings, who had at least some experience with media appearances, Blanket was just seven years old at the time.
Following the tragic death of their father, Blanket and his siblings were placed under the care of their grandmother, Katherine Jackson, at the Jackson family estate in California. The change was significant, as it not only meant growing up without their father but also adjusting to a more public existence.
The Jackson Family’s Efforts to Protect Blanket
The Jackson family made efforts to ensure that Blanket was shielded from excessive media scrutiny. While his siblings began making more public appearances, Blanket was kept away from major interviews and red-carpet events. This approach allowed him to enjoy a relatively normal childhood compared to the one he had while Michael Jackson was alive.
- Education: He attended The Buckley School in California, a prestigious private school known for educating celebrity children.
- Interests: Unlike his father, who was deeply involved in music from a young age, Bigi has shown a stronger interest in film and media production.
Why Did Blanket Jackson Change His Name?
In 2015, Blanket officially changed his name to Bigi Jackson. Reports suggest that he was bullied for his childhood nickname, and changing it was a way to establish his own identity. The name Bigi, which means “great” in German, reflects his desire to move past childhood labels and focus on his future.
The name change was a quiet transition, with family members and close friends gradually adopting the new name. Unlike his siblings, who had been in the public eye more frequently, Bigi’s transformation into a more private figure allowed him to navigate his teenage years with less media interference.
What Is Bigi Jackson Doing Now?
Unlike Prince and Paris Jackson, who are active in music and media, Bigi has maintained a lower profile. However, here’s what we know about his life today:
1. Education & Career Aspirations
Bigi graduated from high school in 2020 and has expressed a keen interest in media production and filmmaking. While many expected him to follow in Michael Jackson’s musical footsteps, he has instead shown an inclination toward directing and storytelling behind the scenes.
2. Public Appearances
While rare, he has appeared at events such as the Heal Los Angeles Foundation’s charity work. In 2021, he made an unexpected public appearance when he participated in a Good Morning Britain interview discussing climate change and the importance of carrying on his father’s legacy.
3. Lifestyle and Net Worth
Bigi currently resides in a $2.6 million mansion in Calabasas, California. His inheritance from Michael Jackson’s estate has ensured financial stability, allowing him the freedom to pursue his interests without the pressure of fame.
Unlike many celebrity kids, Bigi prefers a quieter life, staying off social media and focusing on personal projects rather than public engagements.
The Future of Blanket (Bigi) Jackson
Bigi Jackson is a testament to resilience and privacy in an era where celebrity children often grow up in the limelight. While his future remains uncertain, it is clear that he is determined to forge his own path.
Many wonder whether he will ever enter the entertainment industry more publicly. Given his interest in filmmaking, it’s possible that he could work behind the scenes, directing or producing rather than performing. If he does, it will be on his own terms, far from the intense spotlight his father once endured.
What Does Bigi Jackson’s Future Hold?
- Media Production: Given his interest in film and media, he may work as a producer or director in the entertainment industry.
- Philanthropy: With his financial stability, he could focus on charitable initiatives, much like his father did.
- Stepping into the Public Eye: While he prefers a private life, he might make occasional public appearances in honor of his father’s legacy.
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Final Thoughts
As the son of the King of Pop, Blanket Jackson has a legacy that will always tie him to one of the greatest entertainers in history. However, his journey is uniquely his own. Whether he decides to embrace the spotlight or continue living a private life, his story remains one of intrigue and admiration.
Despite growing up with unparalleled fame and tragedy, Bigi Jackson has managed to maintain his privacy and independence.
What do you think about Bigi Jackson’s life away from the spotlight? Let us know in the comments!
