Suzanne de Passe Reveals the Nickname She Called Michael Jackson for ‘Decades,’ Recalls Seeing Jackson 5 for the First Time (Exclusive)

**Suzanne de Passe: The Woman Who Discovered the Jackson 5**

Suzanne de Passe, the influential music and film producer, is reflecting on her vital role in the rise of the Jackson 5, a group that would redefine pop music and achieve unrivalled fame globally. At the age of 79, de Passe holds a treasure trove of memories from when she first laid eyes on the legendary band, recounting the moment she recognised their extraordinary talent that would soon light up the world stage.

In an interview timed with the Hollywood premiere of the new Michael Jackson biopic, simply titled *Michael*, de Passe reminisced about her initial encounter with the group in the late 1960s. She was invited by Motown singer and producer Bobby Taylor to witness a live performance of the burgeoning act. “He said, ‘I want you to see something,’” she recalled. “They got up and sang four songs a cappella, and they blew me away.”

At the time, de Passe was working as a creative assistant for Motown founder Berry Gordy. After the captivating performance, she returned to her apartment and attempted to contact Gordy to discuss this promising new talent. Initially, it took time to get through, but when she finally connected, Gordy expressed doubt about pursuing younger acts, citing the challenges with Stevie Wonder. However, de Passe’s determination shone through. “I did not give up. I was relentless,” she stated, convinced that the Jackson 5 had the potential to make history.

The Jackson 5, consisting of brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael Jackson, was formed in 1964. The band caught Taylor’s attention in Chicago in 1968, leading to their journey to Motown. By 1969, they had risen to prominence with their hit single “I Want You Back,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Despite their rapid ascent to fame, de Passe remembers Michael as a child, noting that he was only five when the group was formed and ten when they signed with Motown. She shared anecdotes from their early tours, revealing Michael’s playful nature as he often hid in her room and tried to scare her, prompting her to nickname him “Casper” after the friendly ghost. “For the next three decades, I called him Casper, and he answered,” she said, adding that she also dubbed Marlon “Dudley” for his conscientious behaviour.

Regarding the new film, de Passe expressed excitement about the casting of Jafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, in the title role. She highlighted Jafar’s ability to embody his uncle, noting that his performance is central to the film’s success. “If you don’t have Michael, you don’t have a movie,” she remarked, emphasising the profound connection Jafar has to the music icon.

De Passe’s legacy is not only intertwined with the Jackson family but also extends to the impact she has made in the music industry. Her insistence and belief in the Jackson 5 paved the way for their signature style, which has influenced countless artists in the decades since. It’s hard to imagine a world where their unique blend of pop, soul, and R&B had not graced the airwaves, thanks in part to de Passe’s efforts.

In the biopic *Michael*, de Passe is portrayed by actress Laura Harrier, an experience she described as both “good and weird.” The film, focused on the life and career of Michael Jackson, offers audiences a glimpse into the legacy of a performer who continues to shape music. With the film now in cinemas, de Passe remains hopeful that it will capture the essence of not just Michael’s artistry but also the warmth and camaraderie that defined their early relationship.

As a key figure in the evolution of the Jackson 5, Suzanne de Passe’s story is a reminder of the significance of vision and tenacity in the creative industries. Through her dedication and passion for music, she helped cultivate a group that would go on to become one of the most iconic ensembles in pop history. The echoes of their influence still resonate today, a testament to the unyielding spirit of those who believed in them during their formative years.