Tito Jackson, the third of nine Jackson children, has died at the age of 70.
Tito Jackson, the brother of global superstars Michael and Janet Jackson, died suddenly on September 15, 2024.
Tito Jackson in front of the Hotel Bayerischer Hof on September 9, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Tito was part of a music-making family, whose hits are still loved to date. He made up the beloved pop group, the Jackson 5. Sadly, as per a longtime Jackson family friend and former Jackson family manager, Steve Manning, Tito died while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma.
An official cause of death is yet to be released but Steve believes that Tito suffered a heart attack while behind the wheel. His sons, TJ, Taryll, and Taj Jackson are mourning their dad. They paid tribute to him via a touching Instagram post.
They wrote, “We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being. Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson from the legendary Jackson 5, some may know him as ‘Coach Tito’ or some know him as ‘Poppa T.’ Nevertheless, he will be missed tremendously.”
Tito Jackson performing on stage with his guitar, from an Instagram post, dated September 15, 2024 | Source: Instagram/3tworld/
The post was accompanied by a series of photos
featuring Tito posing with the Jackson 5, as well as with his sons. Additional images captured moments from various stages of his life, including time spent as a father playing with his children, performing on stage with his guitar, and enjoying moments of relaxation with friends.
Tito Jackson playing with his kids, from an Instagram post, dated September 15, 2024 | Source: Instagram/3tworld/
His sons shared their heartfelt tribute, emphasizing how it would always be “Tito Time” for them and encouraging others to follow their father’s message of love and kindness. They expressed deep affection for their father and the lasting impact of his words.
Tito was last photographed on September 9, 2024, in Munich, Germany, just six days before his passing. The sighting was ahead of a scheduled performance by the current line-up of The Jacksons, which also includes his brothers, Jackie and Marlon Jackson.
The music band “The Jacksons” with Taryll, Tito, Jackie, and Marlon Jackson in front of the Michael Jackson memorial in front of the Hotel Bayerischer Hof, on September 9, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Now, fans around the world are mourning Tito’s passing, sending condolences to his sons. The three sons, who are part of the band 3T, will carry on their father’s musical legacy through their own work, honoring his influence and impact on their lives and careers.
Tito, who was married to Dee Dee Jackson, remained a fierce advocate for his brother Michael Jackson’s legacy. Every time he stepped on stage, he felt his presence, often seeing his smile reflected in children’s faces.
Even more than a decade after Michael’s passing, Tito continued to feel his loss deeply. In August 2024, he said, ” The world was not kind to Michael at all. I don’t know why. I would always say if we didn’t have him, we sure would miss him. His death was such a major tragedy.”
Tito and Michael Jackson perform during The Jackson Five’s 1984 Victory Tour. | Source: Getty Images
Tito, who adored Michael, added, “The world definitely missed out on a lot of goodness from him, because he wasn’t just a musician or an artist, he was a loving person. He loved to give.” When it came to celebrating his brother, Tito often encouraged fans to come together and enjoy music.
He firmly believed Michael still reigned as the King of Pop, with his timeless music ensuring his legacy endures. Tito was confident that Michael’s influence would remain immortal, continuing to inspire generations.
Like Michael, Tito, who was also an actor and producer, was dedicated to his craft. He had no intention of leaving the stage anytime soon, noting, “I plan to be like BB King – play music until I die. Like Frank Sinatra or Sammy Davis Jr or Dean Martin. It’s fun, it’s peace of mind, it’s pleasure. I think, for an artist, music extends their lives.”
Tito always emphasized the love and positivity that flowed through his music, distancing it from negative themes like profanity or disrespect.
He believed music could uplift and inspire, and he consistently supported projects created by his family, embodying these values in his work and presence.