Michael Jackson's relationship with his classmates during his early years was somewhat complicated. He often felt isolated and struggled to connect with other children due to his demanding schedule as a child performer with the Jackson 5. Michael and his brothers toured extensively and performed in various cities, which limited his opportunities to develop lasting friendships with peers.
Moreover, Michael's father, Joe Jackson, was known for being strict and demanding in his approach to managing his children's music career, which further limited Michael's social interactions outside of his family and the entertainment world.
Despite these challenges, it's believed that Michael Jackson's classmates admired him for his exceptional talent even at a young age. His extraordinary singing and dancing abilities set him apart from his peers, and he was already gaining recognition as a child prodigy.
As Michael grew older and became a global superstar with his solo career, it's likely that he faced more challenges in forming genuine friendships with people who could relate to his experiences and level of fame. His celebrity status often made it difficult to trust others' intentions, and he became more guarded in his personal life.
One notable close friendship Michael had during his younger years was with actress Elizabeth Taylor. They met when Michael was 16, and Elizabeth, 27, offered him support and guidance during his career. Their bond grew stronger over the years, and they remained close friends until Elizabeth's death in 2011.
It's important to note that Michael Jackson's life and experiences were unique due to his immense fame and early stardom, which could have both positive and negative effects on his relationships with peers and forming close friendships.