by It’s hard to believe it has been over a decade since the world tragically lost the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. He passed away at the young age of 50 in 2009, leaving behind a profound musical and cultural legacy. As a lifelong fan, I often find myself wondering what Michael would be up to if he were still with us today.
Though he was a notoriously private person, some clues from his life give us insight into how he may have spent his time. Above all, Michael was a devoted father and family man. There is no doubt he would still be cherishing time with his three children, Prince, Paris and Blanket, who are all young adults now. Michael was known to be a bit of a homebody, preferring to spend time away from the public eye at his Neverland Ranch. The sprawling property gave him the freedom to indulge his varied interests.
Music was Michael’s greatest passion, so he likely would have continued making music if he were alive today. It’s possible he could have released new albums showcasing his ever-evolving sound. Maybe he would have collaborated with current pop stars or up-and-coming talent. I like to think Michael may have gone on tour again, giving fans the chance to see him perform his iconic dance moves and hear that velvety voice live. Some of his best performances were later in his career, like his 1996 Brunei concert, so his talent was only improving with time.
Dance was another lifelong love of Michael’s. He would surely still be choreographing elaborate routines and dance numbers if he were here today. Though his moves became his signature, he never stopped innovating. Michael was inspired by talented choreographers he collaborated with, like Travis Payne and Kenny Ortega. He even mentioned in interviews that he wanted to do more film work involving dance, so I imagine he would have explored that avenue. Dance kept him energized and creative.
Michael also may have ventured more into the film world if he were still alive. He starred in several films earlier in his career, including The Wiz, Captain EO and Moonwalker. In his later years, he expressed interest in doing more dramas and movies centered around music. With his charisma, versatility and dedication to his craft, Michael could have successfully transitioned into a renowned actor as well as singer. He might have even directed a feature film, given his eye for visual storytelling in his music videos.
His compassion for humanitarian causes would still be shining through as well. Michael donated millions to charities benefiting children, education and the less fortunate. He founded Heal the World and his own Heal the Kids foundation while he was alive. Michael often said his goal was to help children and use his music to spread joy and important messages in the world. He would likely be an even more prominent activist and philanthropist if he were still able to use his global platform.
Michael would surely still indulge his many hobbies and interests too. He was an avid reader, favoring books about art, history and humanitarians like Gandhi. Reading helped fuel Michael’s creative spirit. Photography was another favorite hobby of his that I think he would continue. He enjoyed taking photos everywhere he went, capturing moments with his family and glimpses of his travels. Photography and books allowed Michael to learn about the world from a quiet distance.
Creative outlets like art and filmmaking were important to Michael as well. He was an amateur painter, drawing inspiration from masters like Michelangelo. Set design for his elaborate music videos and stage shows let Michael’s imagination run wild. He even made a few short films, hoping to someday produce a feature. Art allowed Michael to constantly challenge himself and improve his skills. It was a therapeutic escape for him, an outlet for his active mind.
Though Michael will be forever frozen in time as the legendary King of Pop, I like to imagine he would still be making art, aiding others and enjoying simple pleasures if he were alive today. The world lost him too soon, but the impact Michael made lives on. His musical genius and spellbinding performances will be cherished by fans for generations. And his messages of healing the world through love and unity will continue inspiring people everywhere. Michael’s light shone so brightly that it will never truly fade.
