Michael Jackson wanted to ensure his daughter, Paris Jackson, never felt alone. To provide her with guidance, he chose Elizabeth Taylor as her godmother, hoping she could offer support as someone who also grew up in the limelight.
“There was definitely a part of him that knew we’d have a similar experience,” Paris shared in the first episode of the BBC docuseries Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar. “I was homeschooled, so I didn’t really know what it was like to be around other kids my age.” She added, “I think it was the same for her.”
Elizabeth Taylor, who passed away in March 2011—nearly two years after Michael’s death in June 2009—had spent much of her own childhood under the public eye. The daughter of actress Sara Sothern and art dealer Francis Lenn Taylor, Elizabeth began her acting career at just 7 years old in 1939. Over the years, she developed a close friendship with Michael, even attending his 2009 memorial to support Paris and her brothers, Prince Jackson, 27, and Bigi Jackson, 22.
Paris also has a special godfather—Home Alone star Macaulay Culkin. He was also present at Michael’s memorial service. “I am close with Paris,” Macaulay shared during a 2018 interview on WTF with Marc Maron. “She is beloved by me.” While he’s protective of their relationship, Macaulay did say, “She’s tall, beautiful, and smart. It’s great.”
Their bond has only grown stronger over the years. In 2021, Paris told E! News that Macaulay even helped her prepare for auditions for American Horror Stories. “He told me to overdo it in some parts,” she said, “make it theatrical.”
During the filming of the horror spinoff, Paris sent Macaulay a selfie of her costume, covered in fake blood. Macaulay responded with a photo from his own bloody shoot for American Horror Story: Double Feature. As Paris humorously noted, “It was cute.”
Their connection, built on mutual support and shared experiences, remains a significant part of Paris’ life.