Jermaine Jackson files petition to alter his name

Jermaine Jackson is changing his famous name. But not by much.

Jackson filed court papers in L.A. on Tuesday to change his last name to Jacksun, citing “artistic reasons” for the slight alteration.

While the world likely lets out a collective sigh of relief that the latest bizarre headline to plague this family this year is something laughable (this summer’s “kidnapping” of Katherine Jackson, ongoing family battles, etc.) , we are waiting for Jackson to explain these “artistic reasons” in an overwrought press conference, which most likely will also plug some Jacksun-related product.

Maybe Jermaine is gearing up for a solo career relaunch. Having a brand new surname that evokes sunshine could distract from the weight that comes with being a J-a-c-k-s-o-n, the brother of pop giants Michael and Janet.

The request has yet to be approved by a judge. The process also includes Jackson placing an announcement in a local publication and a public hearing, where it’s possible someone can object to the name change. Given this family’s track record and the press attention some of its members pursue, Jermaine might have a fight on his hands.

Just remember, his first name is still Jermaine... Mr. Jacksun if you’re nasty.

Follow @GerrickKennedy