Pop icon Janet Jackson’s performance at this year’s DStv Delicious Festival has been shrouded in uncertainty following the death of her brother Tito Jackson.
The “If” singer was scheduled to headline the weekend festival at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg. Tito Jackson, an original member of the Jackson 5, passed away over the weekend at 70. His shock passing was announced by his sons Taj, Taryll and TJ Jackson.
“We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their wellbeing,” they wrote on Instagram.
Tito was touring days before his death and last performed in the UK earlier this month, according to Sky News.
In the wake of his death, DStv Delicious organisers issued a statement and said they were in talks with Janet’s team. “… and while no decision has yet been made regarding her performance at the festival, we are committed to keeping the public and the media informed as soon as we have more information,” they stated.
STATEMENT:
DStv Delicious Festival has released a statement on the passing of Tito Jackson, who is this year’s headliner, Janet Jackson’s brother.
No decision has been made yet on the availability of Ms Jackson to perform in South Africa as scheduled this weekend.… pic.twitter.com/RhvT372qr7
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) September 16, 2024
X users quickly flooded the comments section and reminded festival organisers that they should be prepared to refund concertgoers if worse comes to worse.
Fans had a few other suggestions. “Yeah, I think they should just postpone the Saturday to later in the year unless they can get another headliner to take her spot or ask Jill to perform both nights and then bring Janet for another event later in the year or next year. Cause yoh that’s heartbreaking,” said @OnlyeverydaySA1.
Yeah I think they should just postpone the Saturday to later in the year, unless they able to get another headliner to take her spot or ask Jill to perform both nights and then bring Janet for another event later in the year or next year. Cause yoh that’s heart breaking.
— Flower (@OnlyeverydaySA1) September 16, 2024
Another warned: “It’s not looking good for Delicious this year, even the weather is taking a massive dip on Saturday.”
Words; Fame Frenzy