Tito Jackson, a founding member of the iconic Jackson 5 and brother to the late Michael Jackson, has passed away at 70. Known for hits like “ABC” and “I Want You Back,” the news of Tito’s passing was shared by his sons on Instagram, though the cause of death has not yet been revealed.
The Jackson family is grieving the loss of another beloved figure in their storied musical history. Tito performed with his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, contributing to the group’s timeless impact on music. His brother Michael passed away in 2009.
Steve Manning, a close friend and former manager of the Jackson family, confirmed Tito’s death, sharing that it occurred on Monday.
Tito’s sons—Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, who found success as the R&B group 3T in the ’90s—expressed their sorrow in a touching post on Instagram.
“We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared deeply for everyone,” they wrote. “He will be missed tremendously, but for us, it will always be ‘Tito Time.’ Please remember his message: ‘Love One Another.’ We love you, Pops.”
