Episode 1

With unique access to friends and family including Jackson’s sister, La Toya, this episode charts Michael Jackson’s journey from child performer to a deeply troubled musical icon.

Behind the Jackson 5, the family act that launched Michael to fame, was a household described by insiders as driven by fear as much as talent. An offer of a film role helps Michael gain independence from his controlling father, causing tensions and resentments within the family. This leads to Michael's search for authentic connections elsewhere, including among the Jehovah's Witnesses.

In 1982, Michael releases his masterpiece Thriller, catapulting him to mega-stardom and turning him into a global business empire. But the pressures of fame begin to weigh heavily, and colleagues also describe a pattern in Michael’s behaviour: a preference for the company of children.