In a world where pop culture is often a relentless storm of fanfare and flamboyance, the family of the legendary Michael Jackson chose a different path to honor his memory on what would have been his 65th birthday. The King of Pop’s children, Blanket Jackson, now known as Bigi, and his older brother Prince Jackson, made a subtle yet meaningful appearance in Las Vegas to commemorate their father’s special day.
The iconic Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino played host to this heartfelt homage. With its shimmering lights and bustling energy, the venue was an apt setting to remember the man who had dazzled the world with his music and moves. Cirque du Soleil’s “Michael Jackson ONE” show, a mesmerizing blend of music and acrobatics, formed the backdrop for this touching affair.
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The event, dubbed the “Blue Sapphire Birthday Celebration,” offered fans a chance to engage with the Jackson legacy through a public Q&A session, organized by the custodians of Michael Jackson’s estate. For the Jackson family, this event held a deeper significance – it marked not only the milestone of what would have been Michael’s 65th birthday but also the 10th anniversary of the “ONE” Vegas residency. A decade of music, acrobatics, and awe had transpired since the show’s inception in 2013.
As the world knows, Michael Jackson’s offspring have largely shied away from the public spotlight. However, on this poignant occasion, Bigi and Prince stepped out to embrace their father’s enduring legacy. The siblings, now adults, quietly paid tribute to the man who had been both an enigmatic entertainer and a loving parent.
It was not the first time the family had graced the Mandalay Bay for such a commemoration. In 2018, Michael’s daughter, Paris Jackson, took center stage during the “Michael Jackson Diamond Birthday Celebration.” A significant event in its own right, this celebration also served as an opportunity to recognize Michael Jackson’s humanitarian efforts. Paris accepted the Elizabeth Taylor Legacy Award on behalf of her father’s contributions to the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation.
In a heartfelt video shared on social media, Paris reflected on her father’s unique relationship with his own birthday. “Back when he was alive, he used to hate anybody acknowledging his birthday, wishing him a happy birthday, celebrating it, nothing like that,” she revealed. It seems even the King of Pop himself shied away from the limelight on his special day. Paris also candidly shared her personal experiences of being scrutinized by her father’s fans for not posting on social media during previous birthdays.
But as Paris pointed out, there are more meaningful ways to carry on Michael Jackson’s legacy. She highlighted her father’s deep interests in climate change, environmental issues, animal rights, and activism. “There’s always ways to get involved with raising awareness for climate change, doing so for the environment, animal rights, activism, these were things that he loved and he was very, very interested in,” she said. “I can’t speak for him because you know, I’m a different person and I don’t know, but I’m sure he would have loved that and so if you want to pay homage and honor him on his birthday, that would be my suggestion.”
The King of Pop, whose music transcended generations and whose influence continues to ripple through the entertainment world, passed away tragically in 2009 at50. His absence is still keenly felt by his fans and his family, who find solace in moments like these – moments that bring them closer to the man behind the legend.
In a world often defined by grand gestures and extravagant displays, the Jackson family’s understated tribute reminds us that sometimes the most profound commemorations are the ones that speak softly but resonate deeply. As the lights dimmed over the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, the memory of Michael Jackson, the man who changed the face of music and dance, burned even brighter in the hearts of those who knew and loved him most.