by The Unlikely Friendship of Michael Jackson and Sammy Davis Jr.
Michael Jackson and Sammy Davis Jr. seemed like an unlikely pair – one was a young African American pop star at the height of his fame in the 1980s, while the other was an older legendary entertainer who had broken barriers in the entertainment industry decades prior. However, despite their differences in age and era, Jackson and Davis formed an enduring friendship that lasted until Davis’ death in 1990. While rumors have swirled about the true nature of their relationship, the facts point to a bond built on mutual respect and support between two talented Black performers in an industry not always welcoming to them.
Shared Experience as Black Entertainers
One thing Jackson and Davis undeniably had in common was their experience as highly successful Black entertainers at a time when racism and segregation were still prevalent in America. Both faced discrimination and barriers early in their careers but were able to achieve tremendous mainstream popularity and acclaim. Davis, in particular, was a pioneer who helped integrate Las Vegas and films in the 1950s and 60s through his talent and charisma. He endured racist backlash for his relationships with white actresses and even converted to Judaism in the 1960s in solidarity with the Jewish community.
Davis would no doubt have been able to relate to and empathize with the challenges Jackson faced as a young Black pop star and would have been one of the few peers who truly understood what it was like to navigate the entertainment business while facing prejudice. Their shared experience of achieving superstardom against the odds would have undoubtedly connected the two men on a deep level from the beginning of their friendship. Davis may have served as a mentor to Jackson, helping him deal with racism in the industry and advising him on navigating fame and success.
Musical Influence and Admiration
Beyond their shared experiences as Black performers, Jackson greatly admired Davis as an entertainer and cited him as an influence and inspiration. In interviews, Jackson praised Davis’ talent, versatility and showmanship. He was in awe of Davis’ ability to seamlessly blend comedy, dancing, and singing into spectacular live performances. Jackson studied Davis’ choreography and performances closely, learning from his innovative moves and ability to captivate audiences.
This musical influence and admiration was on full display in Jackson’s music video for “The Way You Make Me Feel.” In the video, Jackson is seen watching a clip of Davis performing and directly references him in the lyrics, singing “Sammy Davis Jr. did the city slicker, now you’re gonna dance to this.” The video pays homage to Davis’ iconic performances and style through Jackson’s own dancing. It’s a touching tribute from one legend to another that demonstrates the deep respect Jackson had for Davis as a performer who helped pave the way. Their shared love and talent for music and dance no doubt strengthened their bond.
Public Appearances Together
Beyond rumors, one of the clearest signs of the closeness between Jackson and Davis is that they were often seen together publicly at various entertainment industry events throughout the 1980s until Davis’ death. Photos exist of the pair chatting together backstage at award shows, music performances, and other functions. Their willingness to be seen side by side in public suggested a friendship they were both proud to display and not keep private or secretive.
Some of the more memorable public appearances together included Jackson introducing Davis at a Sammy Davis Jr. tribute concert in 1988. During the introduction, Jackson gushed about Davis’ influence and talent, showing the genuine admiration and affection he felt for his friend and role model on a major stage. Another iconic moment was when Davis joined Jackson on stage during his Bad tour stop in Los Angeles in 1988, dancing alongside the pop star to “I Want You Back” by The Jackson 5 in a touching moment between friends. Their comfort in each other’s company was evident for all to see.
Tabloid Speculation and a Lack of Evidence
Of course, not all aspects of Jackson and Davis’ relationship were so clear or publicly displayed. Because they were both hugely famous celebrities, the tabloids often exploited and speculated about their friendship. Rumors swirled at times that there was a deeper romantic bond between the two men beyond just a friendship. However, both Jackson and Davis consistently maintained that they were simply good friends who respected each other tremendously. There is no concrete evidence to substantiate any claims of a romantic relationship between the two entertainers.
While the true depths and private details of any friendship can never be fully known, all factual information points to Jackson and Davis sharing a platonic yet close friendship based on their mutual admiration and understanding of one another. They undoubtedly provided encouragement, advice, and companionship to one another throughout their careers in an industry not always welcoming to Black performers. Their public displays of affection and private time spent together, as seen in photos, suggest a genuine bond of respect and care between the two legends. Though often exploited by tabloid rumors, the reality seems to have been an unlikely but beautiful friendship between talented artists who found solace in one another.
Lasting Legacy and Impact
Tragically, Jackson would lose his dear friend all too soon when Davis passed away from throat cancer in 1990 at the age of 64. Jackson was deeply saddened by Davis’ death and said of him, “Sammy Davis, Jr. was one of the greatest entertainers that ever lived. He was an inspiration to me and so many others in how to face adversity through courage and humor.” In the wake of his passing, Jackson helped establish the Sammy Davis Jr. Foundation to continue Davis’ legacy and commitment to racial justice.
Though often separated by decades in their careers and eras of popularity, Michael Jackson and Sammy Davis Jr.’s unlikely friendship showed how artists can find deep connections despite differences. They stood as examples for others – Black performers who beat the odds through sheer talent and paved the way for more diversity and inclusion in entertainment. Both left indelible marks through their artistic gifts that still resonate today. While rumors may have swirled, what’s clearest is the bond of mutual respect and admiration between these two icons who likely provided much needed companionship, encouragement and support for one another throughout their lives in show business. Their legacy lives on in the barriers broken and examples set for generations to come.
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