Early Life and Education of Janet Jackson: A Complete Timeline

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 provocative music, she broke gender and racial barriers on MTV, becoming a role model for youth. Her lyrics often addressed social issues and personal experiences, solidifying her impact on music and popular culture.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

May 16, 1966: Janet Jackson's Birth

On May 16, 1966, Janet Damita Jo Jackson was born. She is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and dancer known for her innovative and socially conscious records and stage shows.

Others born on this day/year

March 1969: Jackson 5's Record Deal with Motown

In March 1969, Janet Jackson's brothers, the Jackson 5, signed a record deal with Motown, marking the beginning of their rise to fame.

1975: Premiere of "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf"

In 1975, Ntozake Shange's play "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf" premiered, which Janet Jackson would later star in the film adaptation of in 2010.

September 1984: Marriage to James DeBarge

In September 1984, at the age of 18, Janet Jackson eloped with singer James DeBarge.

November 1985: Annulment of Marriage to James DeBarge

In November 1985, Janet Jackson's marriage to James DeBarge was annulled.

1986: Began Dating René Elizondo Jr.

In 1986, Janet Jackson began dating dancer, songwriter, and director René Elizondo Jr.

March 1991: Marriage to René Elizondo Jr.

In March 1991, Janet Jackson married dancer, songwriter, and director René Elizondo Jr. The marriage was kept private until their divorce.

2002: Began Dating Jermaine Dupri

From 2002, Janet Jackson dated music producer, rapper, and songwriter Jermaine Dupri.

October 2003: Finalization of Divorce from René Elizondo Jr.

In October 2003, Janet Jackson's divorce from René Elizondo Jr. was finalized, following a settlement after a lawsuit.

2005: Recording of 20 Y.O. album

In 2005, Janet Jackson began recording her ninth studio album, 20 Y.O., with producers Dupri, Jam, and Lewis. The album's title referenced the 20th anniversary of her breakthrough album, Control.

October 2006: Introduction to Wissam Al Mana

In October 2006, Janet Jackson was introduced to Qatari businessman Wissam Al Mana.

June 2009: Michael Jackson's death

In June 2009, Janet Jackson's brother Michael Jackson died at age fifty. She spoke publicly about his death at the 2009 BET Awards, honoring his memory.

2009: Ended Relationship with Jermaine Dupri

Janet Jackson's relationship with music producer, rapper, and songwriter Jermaine Dupri ended in 2009.

2010: Began Dating Wissam Al Mana

In 2010, Janet Jackson began dating Qatari businessman Wissam Al Mana.

2012: Private Marriage to Wissam Al Mana

In 2012, Janet Jackson and Wissam Al Mana became engaged and married privately.

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.

April 2017: Reported Separation from Wissam Al Mana

In April 2017, it was reported that Janet Jackson and Wissam Al Mana had separated and were pursuing a divorce. The announcement was made by Janet the following month.