“Ever since I was born, daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine. And I just wanted to say I love him so much.” Paris Jackson said these heartbreaking words at Michael Jackson’s funeral when she was only 11. Losing her father changed everything for Paris and her brothers, as they were suddenly pushed into public attention despite Michael’s strong wish to protect their privacy.

After his death, Paris and her brothers were raised by their grandmother, Katherine Jackson. Paris later moved into her father’s private studio, turning it into her own space. As she grew older, she began opening up about her life, her music, and the lessons her father taught her.

Paris released her indie-folk album *Wilted*, calling it “mainly just a story of heartbreak and love.” She says her father deeply influenced her creativity and values. “My dad was really good about making sure we were cultured, making sure we were educated.” Despite Michael’s fame and wealth, his children had to work for what they wanted. Paris recalled, “If we wanted five toys from FAO Schwarz or Toys ‘R’ Us, we had to read five books.”

She has always remembered him as a loving and normal father. Speaking to Oprah, she said, “He was the best cook ever. He was just a normal dad.” She smilingly added, “He made the best French toast in the world.”

Paris also faced struggles growing up. She admitted, “I tried to grow up too fast.” Over time, she found strength through music and modeling, even while battling self-esteem issues. Still, Michael remains her greatest inspiration. “I live life with the mentality of ‘OK, I lost the only thing that has ever been important to me.’” That loss shaped her, but it also gave her the strength to keep moving forward.