The Jackson 5ive

Aired: September 11, 1971 – September 1, 1973

Other than appearing in the introduction where actual photographs are shown morphing into animated cartoons, the actual Jackson brothers themselves—Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael—were unable to contribute to the show in any way due to scheduling conflicts, although the group did pose for some posters prior to the show’s release to advertise the forthcoming Saturday morning cartoon. Only their music was used; however, during the music montages, a clipping of the Jackson 5 appearing in concert would air occasionally to blend in with the cartoon. Though Berry Gordy/The J5′s producer did not provide the original voice (his character was voiced by Paul Frees) nor advertised his name, his character was frequently involved as the “adult figure” to the group. R&B/Pop singer Diana Ross contributed to voice her fictionalized self in the debut episode. The premise of the show is that the Jackson Five would have adventures similar to Josie and the Pussycats, Alvin & the Chipmunks or The Partridge Family, with the unique addition being that Berry Gordy, the manager of the band in the show’s universe, would come up with an idea for publicity for the band, such as having to do farm work or play a concert for the President of the United States.