Prince Jackson, the eldest son of legendary pop icon Michael Jackson, has opened up about the real reason behind his father’s decision to cover his children’s faces in public. While it’s common for celebrities to shield their children from the media spotlight, Michael Jackson’s unique behavior, especially with his youngest child, Prince Michael Jackson II (nicknamed “Blanket”), raised a lot of questions. Prince Jackson has now shared the heartfelt reasoning behind his father’s actions.
The “Blanket” Nickname and Its Origins
Michael Jackson’s youngest child, Prince Michael Jackson II, was famously seen with a blanket over his face in public, leading to the lasting nickname “Blanket.” This image became so iconic that it stuck with him for more than a decade. However, in 2015, Blanket chose to embrace a new identity, adopting the nickname “Bigi” or “Bigi Jackson,” marking a departure from his past.
Why Michael Jackson Used Masks
In a 2006 interview with The Los Angeles Times, Prince Jackson revealed the personal explanation his father gave him for covering their faces. According to Prince, Michael spoke to him “like an adult,” telling him that the reason for the masks was to allow his children to have their own lives, separate from his famous persona. Michael Jackson wanted his children to be able to experience normal lives without the constant pressure of being in the public eye.
Prince also mentioned that when they weren’t with their father, they could go out in public without being recognized. However, when they appeared alongside Michael, the reactions from fans made it clear they weren’t like ordinary families. “I didn’t think about how other kids lived when I was younger,” Prince reflected. “But once I knew who he was, I realized it wasn’t normal.”
A Moment of Realization at Disneyland
Prince Jackson vividly remembers a moment when he truly grasped the extent of his father’s fame. He recalled being at Disneyland, casually waving back at fans who were taking pictures of him. He thought it was just a normal part of his life until he saw a video of his father performing, where fans were fainting and passing out due to the overwhelming excitement. That’s when Prince fully realized the magnitude of Michael Jackson’s global impact.
Conclusion: Michael Jackson’s Love for His Children
While Michael Jackson’s approach to shielding his children from public scrutiny may have seemed unusual, Prince Jackson’s explanation sheds light on a loving father’s desire to protect his family. His intention was clear: to give his children a chance at privacy and a normal life despite being inextricably linked to one of the most famous musicians in history.
The Jackson family’s journey is a fascinating blend of fame, privacy, and protection, and Prince’s openness about his father’s motivations provides a new perspective on Michael Jackson’s parenting style.
