“I always wanted to have my mother’s [Katherine Jackson] strength, but I didn’t know if it was really there. But a few years back, something happened and I learned that I did.” She fixes you with a keen gaze. “I’m not going to mention it, but we all know what it is. And now, coming off all this, it’s even beyond that. I was just focused on my job at that moment within my family.” She pauses. “Now at least I know that I can step up to the plate and not crumble when I’m needed. When it comes to something like this that is so, so serious, so painful, so traumatic, I can handle it.”
Janet is also now single, recently breaking off her seven-year relationship with music producer Jermaine Dupri. Does she still believe in marriage?
“For [some] people, sure! I don’t know if I’ll get married again. [She’s been married twice, as a teen to James DeBarge and to choreographer Rene Elizondo.] I’ll put it like this: If God wants me to, then I will.” Dating? “Yeah, I’ve had people ask me out. I haven’t entertained any offers thus far, but I’m locking myself in my work right now.” Some might say boys smell anyway. “Yeah, they stink,” she chuckles, “and they’re dirty.” [source]
Janet Jackson will also OPEN this year’s MTV Video Music Awards with a special tribute to her late brother, Michael Jackson. The awards air THIS Sunday, September 13 @ 9pm/8C