Paris Jackson Responds to Criticism for Performing on Michael Jackson’s Death Anniversary

Paris Jackson, musician and daughter of the late pop icon Michael Jackson, has addressed public backlash after it was revealed she will be performing on June 25—the 16th anniversary of her father’s death.

The 26-year-old artist is slated to open for alternative rock bands Incubus and Manchester Orchestra as part of their joint summer tour, which kicks off in Nashville on the same date. The timing, however, drew criticism from some fans who felt the choice to perform on such a significant day was inappropriate.

In response, Jackson took to her Instagram Stories, a video that has now been deleted, to clarify her position, emphasizing that she has little say in the tour schedule.

“So people are mad again,” she said in the video. “This time, I guess one of the tour dates I’m supposed to be going out on tour with Incubus and Manchester Orchestra happens to be June 25, which is a very negative anniversary for me in my life and my family.”

Jackson explained that as a supporting act, not a headliner, she does not have control over when or where she performs.

“When you’re not headlining these shows, you don’t pick what date you perform, or what time you go on stage, or what city you perform in,” she said, adding, “I think you guys are thinking this whole tour thing is a lot more luxurious than it actually is.”

She also addressed assumptions about the tour lifestyle, noting that her accommodations and overall experience are far from extravagant.

June 25 marks a somber date for the Jackson family and fans worldwide. Michael Jackson, often hailed as the “King of Pop,” died in 2009 at the age of 50 due to cardiac arrest caused by a drug overdose.

Despite the significance of the date, Paris remains committed to her professional responsibilities, while acknowledging the emotional weight it carries.

The tour is scheduled to continue across several U.S. cities throughout the summer, with Paris Jackson performing alongside Incubus and Manchester Orchestra in a supporting role.