Tito Jackson, Michael Jackson’s brother and Jackson 5 co-founder, dies at 70, sons confirm
Tito Jackson, brother of the legendary Michael Jackson and a founding member of the Jackson 5, has passed away at 70, according to his sons.
Tito Jackson, a founding member of the iconic Jackson 5 and older brother to the late Michael Jackson, has passed away at the age of 70. His family shared the heartbreaking news on Sunday, expressing deep sorrow over their loss.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Tito’s sons, TJ, Taj, and Taryll, wrote, “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us. We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken.”
Though an official cause of death hasn’t been confirmed, Steve Manning, a former Jackson family manager, told Entertainment Tonight that he believed Tito suffered a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma on Sunday.
Born Toriano Adaryll “Tito” Jackson in October 1953, he was the third of ten children in the famous Jackson family. While his brothers, especially Michael, took center stage, Tito was an integral part of the group, serving as a guitarist and backup singer. The Jackson 5 produced several chart-topping hits in the 1970s, including “ABC,” “I Want You Back,” and “I’ll Be There.” Their contribution to music was recognized in 1997 when they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Tito was last seen performing in Munich, Germany, on September 9, alongside his brothers Jackie and Marlon Jackson. The trio was on tour with two remaining shows left for 2024, though the future of these performances is now uncertain.
A Family in Mourning
In their tribute, Tito’s sons reflected on their father’s impact on their lives and the lives of many. “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. It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us. Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is ‘Love One Another.’ We love you Pops,” they shared.
As the Jackson family mourns, fans and fellow musicians have also expressed their condolences, celebrating Tito’s life and contributions to the world of music.
