Jaafar Jackson is stepping into one of the most iconic roles in music history, portraying his legendary uncle, Michael Jackson, in the upcoming biopic Michael. While the world watches him step into the spotlight, his own story is deeply rooted in one of the most famous musical dynasties: the Jackson family. His path to this career-defining role was shaped by the unique blend of talent, heritage, and support that has surrounded him since birth.
Born into a legacy of musical excellence, Jaafar’s identity is a rich tapestry woven from his immediate family’s influences. The story of his parents and his place within the sprawling Jackson clan provides a fascinating backdrop to his own rising star, highlighting how his mixed ethnicity and close-knit relationships with his siblings have prepared him for this monumental moment in his career.
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The Musical Dynasty and Parental Influence
Jaafar Jackson’s roots are planted firmly in the heart of the Jackson family. He is the son of Jermaine Jackson, a founding member of the legendary Jackson 5, and Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza. Jermaine, born in Gary, Indiana, was instrumental in the group’s early success with his vocals and bass guitar playing before launching a solo career that produced hits like his 1972 cover of “Daddy’s Home.” Jermaine and Alejandra married in 1995, but their marriage ended in divorce, which was finalized in 2009.
Alejandra Genevieve, Jaafar’s mother, brings a different cultural flavor. She was born in Bogotá, Colombia, and is an entrepreneur and fashion designer. After studying at Beverly Hills High and UCLA, she founded her own company, Alejandra Jackson Designs, which is known for blending Colombian and Peruvian traditions with contemporary fashion. Her work has been featured on television shows and in major magazines, showcasing her own creative talents separate from the Jackson fame.
This diverse heritage defines Jaafar’s ethnicity. He is of African American descent through his father and has Colombian roots through his mother, making his background a blend of Black and White, or more specifically, Black American and Latino. This mix of cultures and artistic influences from both parents has undoubtedly contributed to his own unique identity as an artist.
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Siblings and Formative Experiences
Jaafar Jackson is not an only child; he has a large and blended home of siblings and half-siblings. His full biological brother is Jermajesty Jermaine Jackson, who was born in 2000. The two brothers have performed together, sharing the stage with their father for a televised Christmas event in the Netherlands.
His family tree extends further through his parents’ other relationships. His mother, Alejandra, had previously been in a relationship with Jermaine’s brother, Randy Jackson. From that relationship, Jaafar has two older half-siblings who are also his cousins: Genevieve and Steven Randall “Randy” Jackson Jr.. Genevieve works in the music industry as a creative manager, while Randy Jr. is an actor and producer.
MICHAEL – in theaters April 24, 2026 #MichaelMovie pic.twitter.com/CzmEuwTcFi
— Michael Jackson (@michaeljackson) November 6, 2025
From his father Jermaine’s side, Jaafar has several other half-siblings, including Jermaine Jr., Autumn, Jeremy, Jaimy, and Jourdynn Jackson. This means Jaafar is part of a very large and creative household, growing up surrounded by cousins and siblings involved in various aspects of the entertainment industry.
His childhood in Los Angeles was not without its notable incidents. When he was just 13 years old, his family was investigated by police and child protection services after he purchased a stun gun online. The event made headlines but was ultimately a passing incident in a life that has been largely focused on his artistic development. Inspired by his loved ones as well as artists like Bruno Mars and Stevie Wonder, Jaafar Jackson started singing and dancing at the age of 12, honing the skills that would eventually lead him to be cast as the King of Pop himself. His grandmother, Katherine Jackson, has expressed strong support, stating that Jaafar truly “embodies” her son Michael.
