Sometimes, it seems like being the child of a famous celebrity is the worst way to be famous. From birth, you're forced to put up with the headache of media exposure and the flashing cameras of the paparazzi hounding you everywhere you go. You'll be recognised in bars, maybe even mocked on social media, and endlessly compared to your parents. Sure, it gives you a leg up if you want to pursue creative projects of your own - but is it worth it when you're always playing second fiddle to your mum and dad?
Paris Jackson, the daughter of the late king of pop Michael Jackson, is one such example of this kind of celebrity. The activist, model and actress has never been able to escape the limelight and recently she's also had to reportedly contend with a frightening stalker who threatened her with violence. Yet now, Paris has allegedly finally been granted a restraining order against him, which she hopes will keep her safe after many months of living with fear and anxiety.
Paris was apparently awarded the restraining order by a Los Angeles court on Tuesday July 3, after accusing 23-year-old Nicholas Stevens of stalking and threatening behaviour. In numerous documents which were shown to the court, Paris claimed that Stevens had once showed up at a recording studio she'd been working in and waited for a total of 15 hours to see her. When a friend of Paris confronted Stevens, asking him what he was doing there, Stevens replied: "What the f**k does it look like I’m doing here? I’m stalking your b*tch [sic]." The authorities were later contacted when Stevens allegedly told Paris "By midnight it will all be over … the way it ends is with her or with a shotgun."
Stevens is now legally required to stay more at least 100 yards away from Paris until 24 July, which is when the current order will expire and a court hearing will take place. Unfortunately, this isn't the first traumatic experience Paris has had to cope with in her life. After being sexually assaulted and bullied as a teenager, Jackson struggled with her mental health for many years and attempted suicide at least three times. Now she appears to be on the road to recovery.
Paris has also recently had to contend with the loss of her grandfather, music producer Joe Jackson. In a moving Instagram tribute, she wrote: "Spending those last few moments with you were everything. Being able to tell you everything I needed to tell you before saying goodbye was such a blessing. everyone that came to visit you, came with love, respect, and so much pride in their hearts for you. Proud of you, proud to be your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, proud to have your strength and share the dynasty you spent your life creating, and proud to be a jackson."
She added: "You are the first true jackson. the legend that started it all. None of us would be anywhere near where we’re at if it weren’t for you. I have immense gratitude for you, and always will. We all feel that way. thank you for everything. Truly. Rest in peace and transition. I’ll see you in my dreams very very soon." We wish Paris all the best in the days to come and hope that she stays safe.
