Discover the defining moments in the early life of Janet Jackson. From birth to education, explore key events.
Janet Jackson is a highly influential American singer, songwriter, actress, and dancer known for her innovative and socially conscious music. Her provocative records and elaborate stage shows significantly impacted MTV's growth, breaking gender and racial barriers. Jackson's lyrical focus on social issues and personal experiences established her as a role model for youth. She is considered a pop icon due to her musical achievements and impact on entertainment and culture.
May 16, 1966: Janet Jackson's Birth
On May 16, 1966, Janet Damita Jo Jackson was born. She would become an American singer, songwriter, actress, and dancer known for innovative and socially conscious records.
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March 1969: The Jackson 5's Record Deal with Motown
In March 1969, Janet Jackson's brothers, The Jackson 5, signed a record deal with Motown, which led to their first number-one hit.
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1982: Early Career and Independence from Jackson Family
In 1982, Janet Jackson began her professional career, striving to distance herself from her older brother Michael and the rest of the Jackson family.
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September 1984: Elopement with James DeBarge
In September 1984, 18-year-old Janet Jackson eloped with singer James DeBarge.
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November 1985: Marriage annulment
In November 1985, Janet Jackson's marriage with James DeBarge was annulled.
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1986: Dating René Elizondo Jr.
In 1986, Janet Jackson began dating dancer, songwriter, and director René Elizondo Jr.
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March 1991: Marriage to René Elizondo Jr.
In March 1991, Janet Jackson married René Elizondo Jr. in a secret union.
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2002: Began Dating Jermaine Dupri
In 2002, Janet Jackson began dating music producer, rapper, and songwriter Jermaine Dupri.
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October 2003: Divorce Finalized
In October 2003, Janet Jackson's divorce from René Elizondo Jr. was finalized after a settlement was reached regarding Elizondo's lawsuit.
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October 2006: Introduction to Wissam Al Mana
In October 2006, Janet Jackson was introduced to Qatari businessman Wissam Al Mana.
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June 2009: Death of Michael Jackson and Public Statement
In June 2009, Janet Jackson's brother Michael Jackson died, and she spoke publicly about his death at the BET Awards.
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2009: Ended relationship with Jermaine Dupri
In 2009, Janet Jackson ended her relationship with music producer, rapper, and songwriter Jermaine Dupri.
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2010: Began dating Wissam Al Mana
In 2010, Janet Jackson began dating Qatari businessman Wissam Al Mana.
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2012: Private marriage to Wissam Al Mana
In 2012, Janet Jackson and Wissam Al Mana became engaged and married privately.
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2012: Endorsement of Nutrisystem and Contributions to Charity
In 2012, Janet Jackson endorsed Nutrisystem, donating ten million dollars in meals to the hungry, and was honored by amfAR for her contributions to AIDS research.
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April 6, 2016: Tour Postponement for Family Planning
On April 6, 2016, Janet Jackson announced she was "planning her family" with husband Wissam Al Mana, leading to the postponement of her tour.
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January 2017: Birth of son, Eissa Al Mana
In January 2017, at the age of 50, Janet Jackson gave birth to her son, Eissa Al Mana.
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April 2017: Separation and Pursuit of Divorce
In April 2017, it was reported that Janet Jackson and Wissam Al Mana had separated and were pursuing a divorce.
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March 8, 2023: Follow-up Documentary Series Announced
On March 8, 2023, Lifetime and A&E announced a follow-up documentary series, Janet Jackson: Family First, following Jackson as she prepares for her Together Again Tour and reunites the family band.
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