Janet Jackson has revealed some surprising details about her family connections, linking her to several prominent figures in Hollywood. During an appearance on the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show, a video of which was shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, August 13, the music icon disclosed that she is related to legendary musicians Stevie Wonder and Tracy Chapman, as well as acclaimed actor Samuel L. Jackson.
When asked by host Scott Mills about her relationship with Stevie Wonder, Janet confirmed, “He’s our cousin. Not a lot of people know that. He’s our cousin on my mother’s side. So is Tracy Chapman.” She further surprised listeners by adding, “So is Samuel Jackson,” though she clarified that Samuel L. Jackson is part of her extended family, not her brother.
Janet Jackson, renowned as a member of the famous Jackson family, is the younger sister of Rebbie, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, La Toya, Marlon, Randy, and the late Michael Jackson.
In a recent interview, Janet also reminisced about writing her 1995 hit song “Scream” with her brother Michael. She recalled their time together in New York, saying, “Mike and I wrote that song in New York, in his apartment. So [I relive] that whole journey, listening to him sing it [and remembering] what he was going through at that time. And just me being his little sister, always by his side, and being that support system. That’s always been my role.”
Michael Jackson, one of the most influential musicians in history, passed away in 2009 at the age of 50 due to cardiac arrest. Janet’s revelations offer a fresh perspective on her illustrious family history, connecting her to some of the biggest stars in the entertainment industry.
