Watch The Jacksons: An American Dream

The Jacksons: An American Dream is a five-part miniseries that chronicles the lives of the legendary family of musicians, the Jacksons. Starring Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs as Joseph Jackson, Angela Bassett as Katherine Jackson, and Holly Robinson Peete as Diana Ross, the show takes viewers on a journey through the highs and lows of the Jackson family's rise to fame.

The first episode begins with the family living in a small house in Gary, Indiana, struggling to make ends meet. Joseph Jackson, a steel mill worker, has a dream of creating a family band and takes strict measures to ensure that his children are trained musicians. The episode explores the family's dynamics, with Joseph's strict rules and Katherine's nurturing nature leading to conflict and tension between the couple.

As the series progresses, viewers witness the Jacksons' journey to becoming one of the most successful musical groups in history. The second episode focuses on their early struggles to gain recognition, with the family performing in local talent shows and eventually signing with Steeltown Records. The show introduces the young versions of the famous Jackson brothers, including Michael, Tito, Jackie, Jermaine, and Marlon, and shows their struggles to balance their musical aspirations with their personal lives.

The series also features several cameos from real-life musical icons, including Diana Ross, who helped launch the Jacksons' career with her support and guidance. Holly Robinson Peete delivers an excellent portrayal of Ross, capturing her elegance and poise as well as her close friendship with Michael Jackson.

Throughout the series, the Jacksons face challenges, both personal and professional. The struggles of fame, addiction, and scandal are all explored in depth, with the show not shying away from the darker aspects of the family's history. The series does an excellent job of balancing the triumphs and tragedies of the Jackson family, showcasing their resilience and love for each other even in their darkest moments.

One of the strongest aspects of The Jacksons: An American Dream is its impressive musical score, which features many of the group's most iconic songs, including "ABC," "I Want You Back," and "Can You Feel It." The musical performances within the show are excellent and capture the high energy and enthusiasm of the Jacksons' live shows.

The performances of the cast are also worthy of praise, with Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs delivering a standout performance as the patriarch Joseph Jackson. His portrayal captures the strict but loving nature of the character, providing insight into the man who helped shape the careers of his children. Angela Bassett delivers a nuanced performance as Katherine Jackson, providing depth and humanity to a character who is often overlooked in the family's story.

The Jacksons: An American Dream is an engaging and informative series that provides a comprehensive look at the rise of one of the most influential families in music history. The show's attention to detail and impressive score make it a must-watch for fans of the Jacksons and music enthusiasts alike. It offers a unique look at a family that has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions of people around the world and provides insight into the determination, passion, and love that fueled their rise to fame.