Tito Jackson, the original member of Jackson 5 and brother of the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson, died aged 70.

The news of his sudden passing was first announced by ET, who cited family friend and former Jackson family manager Steve Manning saying that Tito likely suffered a heart attack while driving to New Mexico from Oklahoma.

Recently, Tito and the rest of the members of the band traveled to Munich, Germany, for a performance. Back then, Tito posted a photo of a memorial for Michael in Munich and paid tribute to his late brother who passed away in 2009.

“Before our show in Munich, my brothers Jackie, Marlon, and I visited the beautiful memorial dedicated to our beloved Michael Jackson,” Tito captioned the photo. “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.”

The news of Tito’s passing was later confirmed by his three sons, Taj, Taryll and TJ Jackson, who were themselves an R’n’B/pop trio, 3T, in the 1990s.

“We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken,” they wrote on Instagram. “Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.”

They continued: “He will be missed tremendously. It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us.

“Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is ‘Love One Another.’ We love you Pops,” they concluded the post honoring their father.

Jackson 5, formed in 1964, has sold more than 150 million records worldwide and produced several No. 1 hits in the 1970s including ABC, I Want You Back and I’ll Be There.

In 1980, the famous siblings were presented with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and in 1997, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. As part of the group, Tito provided the background vocals and played the guitar.

Tito was married to Dee Dee Jackson.

Ever since Michael’s passing, Tito has been an advocate for continuing his legacy, honoring his late brother whenever possible.

Back in August, 2024, Tito told the Mirror, “The world was not kind to Michael at all. I don’t know why. I would always say if we didn’t have him, we sure would miss him. His death was such a major tragedy.”

Tito, who loved Michael, added, “The world definitely missed out on a lot of goodness from him, because he wasn’t just a musician or an artist, he was a loving person. He loved to give.”

Despite his age, Tito didn’t plan on retiring from performing with his band. “I plan to be like BB King – play music until I die. Like Frank Sinatra or Sammy Davis Jr or Dean Martin. It’s fun, it’s peace of mind, it’s pleasure. I think, for an artist, music extends their lives,” he said in an interview with Mirror.

We are so very sorry for Tito Jackson’s sudden passing. May he rest in peace.

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