Tito Jackson, a founding member of the iconic Jackson 5 and older brother to Michael Jackson, has passed away at age 70.
Third Eldest Son
The news of his death was shared by Steve Manning, a longtime family friend and former representative, with media outlet Entertainment Tonight.
While the official cause of death has not been confirmed, Manning believes Tito suffered a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma.
Born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, Tito was the third eldest of the legendary Jackson family.
He rose to fame in the 1960s when he joined his brothers Michael, Jermaine, Jackie, and Marlon to form The Jackson 5, one of the most influential groups in pop music history.
The group’s success paved the way for their groundbreaking sound, blending soul, funk, and pop, and helped shape the global music landscape.
Tito's contributions to music and his role in The Jackson 5 made a lasting impact. Songs like "I Want You Back" and "ABC" became international hits, cementing the group's place in music history.
Tito's death has left fans and the music industry in mourning, marking the end of an era for those who grew up with the Jackson family’s music.