by Michael Jackson, known widely as the King of Pop, was one of the most influential entertainers of all time. While he is best remembered for his groundbreaking music and iconic dance moves, Jackson also enjoyed relaxing at home like many of us by watching television. Though there is no definitive list of his favorite shows, some reports over the years have provided clues into what types of programming the pop star enjoyed. In this article, we will explore some of the TV genres and specific shows that Michael Jackson was reportedly a fan of based on interviews and eyewitness accounts from those close to him.
Classic Comedies
Many who knew Jackson described him as having a great sense of humor in private. It’s no surprise then that he enjoyed classic comedy acts from earlier eras. One troupe he was said to be particularly fond of was The Three Stooges. The physical comedy and slapstick of Moe, Larry and Curly was perfect for putting a smile on Jackson’s face. In a 1993 interview, Stooges star Joe Besser recalled meeting Jackson and said the singer was “just thrilled to death” to chat with him about their work. Besser added that Jackson was “quite knowledgeable” about the comedic trio’s films and routines.
Other vintage comedy acts Jackson enjoyed watching included the Marx Brothers and Laurel and Hardy. The clever wordplay and absurd antics of Groucho, Harpo and Chico Marx no doubt provided laughs for the entertainer. Meanwhile, the hapless but lovable characters of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy’s slapstick shorts were right up his alley. Jackson had a soft spot for comedy duos and teams where creative talents played off each other. This early influence likely informed his own playful on-stage dynamic with brothers like Michael and Jermaine during the Jackson 5 days.
Sitcoms
In the sitcom genre, one program Jackson was reported to be quite fond of was The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, which aired from 1990 to 1996. Will Smith, who starred in and helped produce the show, said Jackson enjoyed watching episodes at his Neverland Ranch. The lighthearted fish-out-of-water story of a streetwise Philly kid adjusting to posh Bel-Air no doubt resonated with Jackson. As an eccentric superstar living in a fantasy world of his own creation, he could relate to the culture clash themes. Additionally, the clever wordplay and jokes throughout the series would have kept Jackson entertained.
Other modern family sitcoms Jackson was said to be a fan of included Malcolm in the Middle and The King of Queens. The former’s off-the-wall antics starring Frankie Muniz as a boy genius surrounded by chaos must have appealed to Jackson’s fun-loving side. Meanwhile, the latter’s blue-collar humor revolving around Kevin James’ everyman character Doug Heffernan hitting life’s speed bumps was right up his comedic alley. Both shows featured quirky characters and absurd situations Jackson could likely relate to and find humor in as a global superstar living outside mainstream society.
Animated Comedies
When it came to animated programs, Michael Jackson had a special affinity for classic cartoons as well as more modern offerings. Shows he was reported to enjoy from earlier eras included Looney Tunes favorites like Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck. The zany antics and wordplay-driven slapstick between the iconic characters was right up his comedic street. Jackson also appreciated the offbeat humor of Ren & Stimpy, Beavis and Butt-head, and other 1990s animated series pushing boundaries.
One animated comedy Jackson was said to be a particularly big fan of was The Simpsons. In a 2003 interview, Simpsons creator Matt Groening recalled receiving a phone call from Jackson where the singer sang the show’s memorable theme song to him over the phone. “He was just so excited about The Simpsons and was quoting lines and episodes,” Groening marveled. The pop star related to the show’s satirical take on American society as well as its quirky, flawed characters like Bart Simpson who rebelled against authority. The clever writing and pop culture references throughout also kept Jackson thoroughly entertained.
Dramatic Shows
While comedy was no doubt Jackson’s favorite small screen genre, he did have an appreciation for quality dramatic television as well. One medical drama he was reported to enjoy was ER, which aired from 1994 to 2009 chronicling the day-to-day chaos of an emergency room. As someone who experienced numerous health issues over the years, Jackson could likely relate to the high-pressure world depicted on the show. He also appreciated the complex characters and emotional story arcs throughout its long run.
Another drama Jackson enjoyed was The West Wing, lauded for its realistic portrayals of White House operations and politics. As a famous figure who met several US presidents over his career, he found the fast-paced world of government fascinating. Additionally, he admired the intelligent, issue-driven dialogue throughout Aaron Sorkin’s acclaimed series. For Jackson, quality writing and compelling characters were just as important in dramas as comedies.
Reality & Competition Shows
In his later years, Michael Jackson took a keen interest in several reality and competition programs as the genres greatly expanded in the 2000s. One show he was known to be an avid viewer of was American Idol. As the originator of the modern talent competition craze, Idol allowed Jackson to scout new singing talent as they emerged from the audition rounds. He enjoyed providing his critiques of contestants alongside friends at Neverland.
Another reality show Jackson followed closely was Survivor. The strategic gameplay and interpersonal drama throughout its early seasons captivated him. As a superstar accustomed to manipulating the media and winning over the public, he could appreciate the social maneuvers of the contestants. Additionally, the exotic locales throughout Survivor’s seasons no doubt appealed to Jackson’s sense of adventure. Overall, the unscripted formats gave him a glimpse into ordinary people’s lives outside the entertainment industry bubble.
Final Thoughts
While Michael Jackson left this world over a decade ago, his legacy as the King of Pop lives on through his groundbreaking music and cultural influence. As this exploration of his reported TV preferences shows, Jackson maintained a keen interest in both classic and contemporary programming across many genres. Whether laughing along to physical comedies, relating to offbeat characters, or analyzing strategic gameplay, television provided Jackson an escape from his superstar pressures. It allowed him to connect with audiences on a more personal level and keep up with trends outside his reclusive world. Through the small screen, Jackson’s love of entertainment and appreciation for creative talents shined through until the very end.
