When the Kardashian name comes up today, it instantly conjures images of global fame, reality TV stardom, and entrepreneurial success. However, before the glitz and glamor of the Kardashian empire, there was a man whose name quietly set the foundation for part of this famous lineage — John Paul Sarkisian. Though not as publicly known as his descendants, Sarkisian’s life story, heritage, and connection to one of America’s most recognized families make him an intriguing historical figure in pop culture.
In this article, we’ll explore who John Paul Sarkisian was, his Armenian-American roots, relationship with Mary Jo Campbell (Kris Jenner’s mother), and how his family line helped shape the Kardashian legacy we know today.
Early Life and Background
John Paul Sarkisian was born in California, USA, and was of Armenian descent. His family traced its origins back to Armenia, a small nation nestled between Asia and Europe known for its deep history, rich culture, and enduring spirit. Many Armenian families, including the Sarkisians, migrated to the United States in the early 20th century, escaping persecution and seeking better opportunities.
Growing up in a family that valued tradition, resilience, and faith, Sarkisian’s early life was likely influenced by the strong community ties within the Armenian-American diaspora. His surname, “Sarkisian,” is a common Armenian last name derived from “Sarkis,” meaning “protector” or “shepherd.” This heritage would later become a subtle yet significant link connecting him to one of the most recognized Armenian-American families in the U.S.
Relationship with Mary Jo Campbell
John Paul Sarkisian’s most notable connection to modern pop culture comes through his relationship with Mary Jo Campbell, often affectionately called “MJ” by fans of Keeping Up with the Kardashians and The Kardashians on Hulu. Mary Jo Campbell, a lively and warm personality, would later become Kris Jenner’s mother and the grandmother to Kourtney, Kim, Khloé, and Rob Kardashian.
Mary Jo and John Paul Sarkisian married in the 1940s, but their union was not long-lasting. Their relationship was reportedly complicated and short-lived, resulting in separation not long after the birth of their daughter, Kristen Mary “Kris” Houghton, who later became Kris Jenner.
While the marriage ended, the brief relationship between Sarkisian and Campbell became the root of one of the most influential family trees in pop culture history.
The Armenian Heritage and Its Lasting Impact
One of the most fascinating aspects of John Paul Sarkisian’s life is the Armenian heritage he passed down through generations. Armenia has a long and proud history, being one of the earliest Christian nations and home to a vibrant culture. That Armenian ancestry, passed from Sarkisian through Kris Jenner, was later reintroduced into public conversation by the Kardashian family, who have openly celebrated their heritage on numerous occasions.
Kim Kardashian, in particular, has spoken proudly about her Armenian background, visiting Armenia several times and even advocating for Armenian genocide recognition on international platforms. Though much of that cultural pride is credited to her father Robert Kardashian Sr., it’s important to note that Kris Jenner — and therefore her father, John Paul Sarkisian — also carried a portion of Armenian ancestry through their family lines.
This dual Armenian heritage from both sides gives the Kardashian family a rich cultural identity that connects them to a historical lineage beyond Hollywood.
Kris Jenner’s Upbringing and the Influence of John Paul Sarkisian
Kris Jenner was raised primarily by her mother, Mary Jo Campbell, after her parents divorced. Reports suggest that John Paul Sarkisian was not a constant presence in Kris’s early life, though his existence and background played a subtle role in shaping her understanding of family, independence, and perseverance.
Growing up with a single mother, Kris learned to be resilient and resourceful — traits that would later help her build one of the most powerful entertainment brands in the world. Although John Paul Sarkisian did not have a direct hand in raising Kris, his brief influence through heritage and lineage contributed to the complex mosaic of identity that defines the Kardashian-Jenner family.
The Sarkisian Line and Connection to the Kardashians
To understand the Kardashian lineage, one must look at the interconnected family tree that begins with John Paul Sarkisian and Mary Jo Campbell.
- John Paul Sarkisian and Mary Jo Campbell had Kris Jenner (née Houghton).
- Kris Jenner later married Robert Kardashian Sr., forming the Kardashian family.
- Together, Kris and Robert had four children — Kourtney, Kim, Khloé, and Rob Kardashian.
- Kris later married Caitlyn Jenner (formerly Bruce Jenner), adding Kendall and Kylie Jenner to the family.
Through this lineage, John Paul Sarkisian is the maternal grandfather of Kris Jenner and the great-grandfather of all six of her children. This makes him an integral, if lesser-known, part of one of the most recognizable families in entertainment history.
The Private Life of John Paul Sarkisian
Unlike his famous descendants, John Paul Sarkisian lived a private life far from cameras and red carpets. There is limited public information about his personal pursuits, profession, or later years, as he was not a public figure.
What’s known suggests that Sarkisian maintained a modest and low-profile existence. His quiet life contrasts sharply with the high-visibility lifestyle of his great-grandchildren, who have turned their family name into a global brand spanning fashion, cosmetics, social media, and entertainment.
Legacy and Cultural Relevance
Though John Paul Sarkisian’s name doesn’t often appear in headlines, his legacy endures through his descendants’ extraordinary success and influence. The Kardashian-Jenner family’s rise from relative obscurity to global fame is a story rooted in resilience, reinvention, and heritage — all qualities that reflect the immigrant experience Sarkisian’s ancestors once lived.
His story also highlights how family roots can shape generational identity in ways that go beyond fame and fortune. In the Kardashians’ case, the combination of Armenian pride, entrepreneurial spirit, and close family ties all trace back to earlier generations like Sarkisian’s, who laid the foundation for future growth.
Remembering John Paul Sarkisian in Modern Culture
Today, John Paul Sarkisian is remembered not for celebrity but for his quiet role in history. He represents the link between an earlier era of hard-working Armenian-Americans and the modern-day success stories that emerged from his lineage.
In a sense, his legacy lives not in the spotlight but in the family values, traditions, and cultural awareness that the Kardashians have occasionally shared with the world. Every time the family references their Armenian roots, pays tribute to their ancestors, or visits Armenia, they also — indirectly — honor John Paul Sarkisian’s memory.
Conclusion: The Man Behind the Legacy
John Paul Sarkisian’s life reminds us that history is made not just by the famous faces we see on television but also by those who came before them — the parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents whose quiet stories form the foundation of great dynasties.
