It’s one of the most iconic Michael Jackson music videos of the 1990s: Jam, a powerful blend of music, rhythm, and basketball, featuring none other than NBA legend Michael Jordan. But did you know that this epic collaboration almost didn’t happen?
In a recent interview, actor Dawan Scott shared the behind-the-scenes story of how he accidentally introduced Michael Jackson to Michael Jordan back in 1992, a meeting that would lead to the unforgettable Jam video.
At the time, both Michaels were already global superstars, but surprisingly, they had never met. Scott recalls being on a TV set with Jordan when a production crew member casually mentioned that Jackson was on a nearby soundstage.
“Michael Jordan goes, ‘I never met Michael Jackson,’” said Scott. “And I go, in my naivety, ‘Do you want to meet him?’ — not knowing I was about to shut down two productions!”
Scott made his way over to Jackson’s set, skillfully navigating through security. When he told MJ (Jackson) that MJ (Jordan) wanted to meet him, the King of Pop was reportedly surprised.
“He goes, ‘He wants to meet me?’” Scott said. “I told him, ‘Yeah.’ Then he said, ‘Well, who’s the bigger star?’”
A touch of playful humility, and classic MJ charm.
Jackson agreed to the meeting, and the rest is music video history. As Scott remembers:
“As soon as we opened the soundstage door, Michael Jackson had a camera — he was filming it all. We walk on the stage and there’s more cameras. I go, ‘Michael, meet Michael.’ And that’s how the Jam music video came about.”
The 1992 video, part of Michael Jackson’s Dangerous era, features the King of Pop dancing circles around Jordan, who gamely tries to keep up before giving MJ a few basketball tips of his own. It’s fun, bold, and full of energy — a perfect reflection of both icons at the peak of their powers.
And as for Scott?
“Jordan, you still owe me a favor,” he joked.
A chance encounter turned into an unforgettable collaboration — all thanks to a well-timed introduction. And we, the fans, are forever grateful.
Here the full interview:
And of course, let’s not miss an opportunity to watch JAM!
