Tito, brother of Michael Jackson dies at 70

By Tosin Brown

Tito Jackson, the older brother of the late Michael Jackson and a founding member of the Jackson 5, has passed away at the age of 70.

According to reports, Tito died on Sunday, September 15, from a suspected heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma, as revealed by family friend and former Jackson family manager Steve Manning. However, the official cause of death has not yet been confirmed.

Tito was last seen publicly on September 9 in Munich, Germany, just six days before his death, ahead of a performance by the current line-up of The Jacksons, which includes his brothers Jackie and Marlon Jackson.

In his final Instagram post, Tito shared a photo of himself visiting Michael Jackson’s memorial, writing: “Before our show in Munich, my brothers Jackie, Marlon, and I visited the beautiful memorial dedicated to our beloved brother, Michael Jackson. We’re deeply grateful for this special place that honors not only his memory but also our shared legacy. Thank you for keeping his spirit alive.”

Tito is survived by his three sons—Taj, 46, TJ, 45, and Taryll, 49—who performed as part of the band 3T, and by his nine grandchildren.

Tito’s death comes 15 years after the passing of his younger brother Michael, who died at the age of 50.