TV series
The Jacksons are your average working-class family in Gary, Indiana; but when their father Joseph discovers the kids have an extraordinary musical talent, they form a band. Winning talent show after talent show, they soon hit it big when Motown comes calling. From there, they become the now famous Jackson 5. But along the way, their success brings trouble and turmoil.
Watch trailerAvailability
Checked Jul 22, 2026
The Jacksons: An American Dream premiered November 15, 1992. We don't have a confirmed streaming, rental or purchase option yet.
The Jacksons are your average working-class family in Gary, Indiana; but when their father Joseph discovers the kids have an extraordinary musical talent, they form a band. Winning talent show after talent show, they soon hit it big when Motown comes calling. From there, they become the now famous Jackson 5. But along the way, their success brings trouble and turmoil.
Cast, crew and production details
Angela BassettKatherine Jackson
Lawrence Hilton-JacobsJoseph Jackson
Billy Dee WilliamsBerry Gordy
Jason WeaverMichael Jackson (ages 9-14)
Bumper RobinsonJackie Jackson (ages 13-17)
Terrence HowardJackie Jackson (adult)
Vanessa WilliamsSuzanne de Passe
Holly Robinson PeeteDiana Ross
ABCUnited States
PolyGram TelevisionWatch options above are for the show and may vary by season or episode.
Episode 1
How Joseph and Katherine managed to raise their children, first in Gary, Indiana, then later dealing with The Jackson 5's early fame and its consequences.
Directed by Karen Arthur
Where to watch The Jacksons: An American Dream
Episode 2
The struggles of young Michael Jackson as he deals with his brothers marrying early, into The Jackson 5 success, his problems with acne as a teenager, his eventual solo superstardom based on the success of his albums Off the Wall and Thriller and his legendary Motown 25 performance of "Billie Jean" as well as his difficult relationship with his father.
Directed by Karen Arthur
Where to watch The Jacksons: An American DreamEpisode information updated Jul 22, 2026
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