Meet Katherine Jackson: The Matriarch Behind the King of Pop’s Legacy

Katherine Jackson has long been the steady force behind one of music’s most influential families. As the mother of Michael Jackson and the woman who helped guide the Jackson children into stardom, her life story reflects resilience, faith, and a lasting impact on pop culture history.

Katherine Jackson’s role in shaping the Jackson family’s legacy spans decades, from raising future music icons to stepping in as a guardian for the next generation.

As the mother of the late Michael Jackson, she remains closely tied to one of the most recognizable names in entertainment history.

Early Life and Personal Challenges

Katherine Jackson was born Kattie B. Screws on May 4, 1930, in Clayton, Alabama, to Prince Albert and Martha Screws. Her early years were marked by hardship after she contracted polio as a child, leaving her with a permanent limp.

At age 4, her father changed the family surname from Screws to Scruse, and she became known as Katherine Esther Scruse. The family later relocated to East Chicago, Indiana, where she attended Washington High School.

During her time there, she participated in the school band, an early connection to music that would later shape her family’s future.

Marriage to Joe Jackson and Family Life

Katherine met Joseph “Joe” Jackson in East Chicago at a party. At the time, Joe was still legally married, but he reportedly sought an annulment before beginning a relationship with Katherine. The couple married on November 5, 1949.

Together, they built a large family, welcoming 10 children between 1950 and 1966. Their children include Maureen “Rebbie,” Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, LaToya, twins Marlon and Brandon, Michael, Randy, and Janet. Brandon, Marlon’s twin, died shortly after birth.

Despite challenges in their marriage, including Joe’s long-term relationship with another woman, Katherine remained married to him. She filed for divorce in 1973 and again in 1982 but ultimately withdrew both petitions. The couple stayed married until Joe’s death on June 27, 2018, from pancreatic cancer.

Raising the Jackson 5

From an early stage, Katherine and Joe encouraged their children’s interest in music. Their efforts led to the formation of The Jackson 5, featuring brothers Michael, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon.

The group achieved widespread success and helped launch Michael Jackson’s solo career, which would later earn him global recognition as the “King of Pop.” Katherine played a key role behind the scenes, supporting her children’s ambitions and helping maintain structure within the household.

Life After Michael Jackson’s Death

Following Michael Jackson’s death in 2009, Katherine took on a new responsibility within the family. She was granted custody of his three children: Michael Joseph Jackson Jr., known as Prince; Paris-Michael Katherine Jackson; and Prince Michael Jackson II, who now goes by Bigi.

Her role as guardian placed her once again at the center of the family’s personal and public life, helping raise the next generation of Jacksons while maintaining their father’s legacy.

Author and Keeper of Family History

Katherine has also documented her family’s story through her writing. In January 1990, she released her autobiography, “My Family, the Jacksons,” co-written with Richard Wiseman. The book offers insight into her upbringing, marriage, and the rise of her children in the music industry.

Katherine’s influence extends beyond her children. Among her nine children who lived to adulthood, she has at least 27 grandchildren, as well as several great-grandchildren.

Many members of the extended Jackson family have pursued careers in entertainment, continuing the legacy that began under her guidance.

Katherine Jackson’s life reflects both personal resilience and a lasting impact on music history. From raising one of the most successful families in entertainment to stepping in as a caregiver for her grandchildren, she has remained a central figure in the Jackson legacy. Her story continues to be closely linked with the rise and enduring influence of the King of Pop.