Tito Jackson, the third of the iconic Jackson siblings, has passed away at the age of 70.
On September 15, 2024, Tito, brother to global superstars Michael and Janet Jackson, died unexpectedly while traveling from New Mexico to Oklahoma.
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| Tito Jackson in front of the Hotel Bayerischer Hof on September 9, 2024 | Source: Getty Images |
A close family friend and former Jackson family manager, Steve Manning, confirmed the tragic news, believing Tito may have suffered a heart attack behind the wheel.
Tito was an integral member of the legendary Jackson 5, a group whose music continues to captivate audiences. His sudden passing has left his sons—TJ, Taryll, and Taj Jackson—devastated. The trio, who form the band 3T, shared a heartfelt tribute to their father on Instagram, reflecting on his life and legacy.
BREAKING: Tito Jackson has died at the age of 70.
— Entertainment Tonight (@etnow) September 16, 2024
Steve Manning, a longtime Jackson family friend and former Jackson family manager, tells ET that Tito passed away today. While an official cause of death has not yet been determined, Manning believes that Tito suffered a heart… pic.twitter.com/coZCZm3T9i
In their post, they wrote, "We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared deeply about others. Whether you knew him as Tito Jackson of the Jackson 5, ‘Coach Tito,’ or ‘Poppa T,’ his loss is immeasurable."
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| Tito Jackson performing on stage with his guitar, from an Instagram post, dated September 15, 2024 | Source: Instagram/3tworld/ |
The message was accompanied by photos of Tito throughout his life, including moments with the Jackson 5, his sons, and candid snapshots of his personal life.
The images captured Tito as a devoted father, a talented musician on stage with his guitar, and someone who cherished time with loved ones.
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| Tito Jackson playing with his kids, from an Instagram post, dated September 15, 2024 | Source: Instagram/3tworld/ |
His sons encouraged fans to honor his legacy by embracing his message of love and kindness, stating it would always be "Tito Time" for them.
Tito’s final public appearance was in Munich, Germany, on September 9, 2024, just six days before his passing. He was preparing for a performance with the current lineup of The Jacksons, which also includes his brothers, Jackie and Marlon Jackson.
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| 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 |
Fans worldwide are mourning the loss of Tito, extending their condolences to his sons. TJ, Taryll, and Taj plan to carry on their father’s musical legacy through their own work, ensuring his influence continues to resonate in their lives and careers.
Tito, who was married to the late Dee Dee Jackson, remained a passionate advocate for his brother Michael’s legacy. He often spoke about the deep connection he felt with Michael, sharing how his presence remained with him every time he performed.
In August 2024, Tito reflected on the pain of losing Michael, saying, "The world wasn’t kind to Michael, and I don’t know why. I always said, if we didn’t have him, we would miss him terribly. His passing was an enormous loss."
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| Tito and Michael Jackson perform during The Jackson Five's 1984 Victory Tour. | Source: Getty Images |
Tito also emphasized that Michael was more than just an artist; he was a generous, loving person who touched countless lives.
Tito believed that Michael's reign as the King of Pop would continue through his timeless music, which he felt would inspire future generations. Tito’s own commitment to his craft was unwavering.
Like his brother, he had no plans to stop performing, expressing his desire to play music for the rest of his life, much like BB King, Frank Sinatra, or Sammy Davis Jr.
Tito often highlighted the positive impact of his music, distancing it from negativity and instead focusing on love and inspiration. He supported numerous family projects and consistently embodied these values in his work.
Tito Jackson’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy—both as a musician and a loving father—will live on through his family, his music, and the countless people he touched throughout his life.
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