Tito Jackson, a founding Jackson 5 member who, along with his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Randy, Marlon, and Michael, became a teen heartthrob in the 1970s and sang hits like “ABC” and “I’ll Be There,” died, his family said.
He was 70.Tito Jackson, a founding Jackson 5 member who, along with his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Randy, Marlon, and Michael, became a teen heartthrob in the 1970s and sang hits like “ABC” and “I’ll Be There,” died, his family said. He was 70.
News of the death was first reported by Entertainment Tonight, which said word of Tito’s passing came from Steve Manning, a longtime friend and associate of the Jackson family.
Manning told ET that he believed Tito suffered a heart attack while driving on a road trip, adding that the cause of death was officially undetermined. People magazine confirmed the news with Tito’s nephew, SIggy Jackson.
His death was announced in a statement early Monday by his sons on his Instagram account, saying, “IIt’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson, is no longer with us. We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being. Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson from the legendary Jackson 5, some may know him as “Coach Tito,” or some know him as “Poppa T.” Nevertheless, he will be missed tremendously. It will forever be “Tito Time” for us. Please remember to do what our father always preached, and that is “love one another.” We love you, Pops.
The Jackson 5, one of the most popular boy bands in the United States for a brief period, were responsible for launching the solo career of Michael Jackson, who earned the title “King of Pop” and became one of the most emulated musicians of all time. The singer, songwriter, and dancer died in 2009 at age 50.
