Paris Jackson, the daughter of the legendary pop star Michael Jackson, recently marked a significant milestone in her life. She announced that she has been sober for five years, overcoming her addiction to heroin and alcohol. Her journey to sobriety has been challenging, yet she expresses immense gratitude for the life she now leads.
Paris Jackson shared her achievement with her followers through a candid post on Instagram. In her heartfelt message, she described herself as an alcoholic and a drug addict but emphasized the joy of emerging from her dependencies. The post included a video clip capturing moments from her past, showing her drinking alcohol, partying, and weeping, juxtaposed with scenes of dancing joyfully with friends. She credited sobriety for allowing her to smile and be present in life.
“Today marks five years clean and sober from all drugs and alcohol, to say that I’m thankful would be a poor euphemism,” – Paris Jackson
Support poured in from family and friends, including warm words from her aunt, La Toya Jackson, who congratulated her on her remarkable accomplishment.
“Congratulations, Paris. I’m so, so proud of you and your growth, strength and accomplishments.” – La Toya Jackson
Other notable figures also expressed their admiration. Lucy Hale commented on Paris's post saying, "You’re amazing amazing amazing," while Paris Hilton expressed pride in her friend's journey.
“So proud of you sis,” – Paris Hilton
In a 2021 interview with Naomi Campbell, Paris reflected on her father's influence on her life. She praised Michael Jackson for his efforts to ensure she and her siblings were well-rounded and cultured individuals.
“My dad was really good about making sure we were cultured, making sure we were educated, and not just showing us, like, the glitz and glam – like hotel hopping, five-star places.” – Paris Jackson
Paris Jackson, who released her debut studio album "Wilted" in 2020, attributed part of her artistic sensibility to her father’s eclectic musical tastes. She noted how every aspect of her childhood continues to shape her identity.
“I feel like every part of my childhood will always influence how I am today, whether it’s experiences or all of the music we listened to … He loved classical music, jazz and hip-hop and R&B and, obviously, the Motown stuff, but also radio’s Top 40. He loved rock music, soft rock, the Beatles.” – Paris Jackson
Paris's journey to sobriety comes years after the tragic death of her father. Michael Jackson's death in 2009 was ruled a homicide due to acute propofol intoxication. Conrad Murray, his personal doctor, served two years in jail for involuntary manslaughter. Propofol was administered to help Michael Jackson sleep.