LONDON, UK – Janet Jackson, the iconic pop star known for hits like “Rhythm Nation” and “Together Again,” has made startling revelations about her family connections, claiming ties to several other legendary figures in the entertainment industry.
During an appearance on BBC Radio 2’s Breakfast Show on Tuesday, August 13, Jackson disclosed her familial links to Stevie Wonder, Tracy Chapman, and Samuel L. Jackson, surprising both the host and listeners.
While speaking with Scott Mills, who was filling in for Zoe Ball, Jackson dropped the bombshell that her family tree extends beyond the famous Jackson clan, which includes her late brother Michael Jackson, the King of Pop. Mills, evidently taken aback, asked, “Now someone told me this earlier, are you related to Stevie [Wonder]?”
“He’s our cousin,” Janet confirmed. “Not a lot of people know that. He’s our cousin on my mother’s side. So is Tracy Chapman.” This unexpected revelation left Mills stunned, prompting him to exclaim, “That’s blown my mind!”
Janet went on to add that Samuel L. Jackson, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in films like Pulp Fiction and The Avengers, is also part of her extended family. “So is Samuel Jackson,” she said, further explaining that all three stars are her cousins.
However, it’s worth noting that Samuel L. Jackson has previously denied being related to the Jackson family. In a 2017 interview with Wired, when asked if he was related to Michael Jackson, Samuel simply replied, “Nope.”
Janet Jackson is the youngest of 10 siblings born to the famous Jackson family. Five of her brothers, including the late Michael Jackson, formed the legendary music group The Jackson 5, which rose to global fame in the 1970s.
Michael Jackson tragically passed away in 2009 at the age of 50 due to acute propofol and benzodiazepine intoxication, a loss that deeply affected his family and fans worldwide.
In a recent interview, Janet reflected on her career and her relationship with Michael, particularly discussing the collaborative track “Scream,” which the siblings recorded together in 1995.
The song, featured on Michael’s album HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I, was seen as a response to the intense media scrutiny and allegations Michael faced during that period.
Janet’s revelations about her extended family ties have certainly added another layer to the already fascinating legacy of the Jackson family, further intertwining their history with some of the most influential figures in music and film.
