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Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and philanthropist born in Gary, Indiana, in 1958.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Michael Jackson was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and philanthropist born in Gary, Indiana, in 1958. Known as the "King of Pop," he became one of the most influential entertainers of the 20th century and died in Los Angeles in 2009 at age 50.

Early life and family

Michael Jackson was born in Gary, Indiana, and began performing as a child with the Jackson 5. He later became one of the most famous solo artists in popular music.

Music career

Jackson built a landmark solo career with albums such as Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad. He is widely cited as one of the most successful and influential pop performers of all time.

Death

Jackson died on June 25, 2009, in Los Angeles at age 50. Sources report cardiac arrest related to a propofol and benzodiazepine overdose.

Legacy

His music, dance style, and global popularity had a major impact on popular culture. He remains one of the most recognised figures in modern music history.

Key facts

  • Michael Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, and died on June 25, 2009.
  • He was widely known as the "King of Pop" and became one of the most culturally significant entertainers of the 20th century.
  • He died in Los Angeles from cardiac arrest caused by a propofol and benzodiazepine overdose.
  • He was a member of the Jackson 5 before becoming a solo artist.
  • He had three children: Prince, Paris, and Bigi (also known as Blanket).
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Canadian context

Michael Jackson had major international popularity in Canada, and his albums and performances were part of mainstream Canadian pop culture. Canadian readers may also know him through extensive media coverage of his life, death, and legacy.

Frequently asked questions

How old is Michael Jackson?
Michael Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, and died on June 25, 2009, at age 50.
What happened to Michael Jackson?
He died in Los Angeles on June 25, 2009, from cardiac arrest caused by a propofol and benzodiazepine overdose.
Who are Michael Jackson's children?
Sources identify three children: Prince, Paris, and Bigi, also known as Blanket.
How many songs did Michael Jackson write?
A precise total is not given in the provided sources, but he is identified as a songwriter and is credited with writing or co-writing many of his songs.
What is Michael Jackson's net worth?
The provided sources do not give a verifiable net worth figure, and available estimates vary widely.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Jackson
    Supports: Birth and death dates, occupation, nickname, death details
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Michael-Jackson
    Supports: Birth and death dates, age at death, cause of death, biography
  3. Biography.com — https://www.biography.com/musicians/michael-jackson
    Supports: Children, career overview, death details
  4. History — https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/august-29/michael-jackson-is-born
    Supports: Birth date and age at death
  5. Famous Birthdays — https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/michael-jackson.html
    Supports: Children names and basic biographical facts