Spike Lee Throws Big Bash for Jackson's Birthday

A Spike Lee joint indeed. The famed director is celebrating the memory of Michael Jackson with a birthday party for the late singer

The late King of Pop would've been 51 today. But rather than mourn his loss, Michael Jackson's celebrity friends and fans are commemorating his legacy with big bashes. 

Filmmaker Spike Lee is throwing one of those—a block-style party in Brooklyn to celebrate the music icon's birthday. Thousands are expected to head to the free event in Prospect Park this afternoon and gather on Nethermead Meadow. 

"It's going to just be how we do it, Brooklyn style," Lee told online mag The Root. "It's going to be a joyous, festive, celebratory party." 

Lee directed two music videos for Jackson's "They Don't Care About Us." The city of Brooklyn has joined in on the celebration, designating the entertainer's birthday as Michael Jackson Day.

On a smaller scale, Diana Ross's son, Evan Ross, celebrated his 21st birthday with a Michael Jackson-themed party Friday night at Guys & Dolls nightclub in West Hollywood. Partygoers danced all night to Jackson tunes and all of the cocktail waitresses donned white studded gloves and fedora hats in honor of the King of Pop. 

The theme had a particularly special meaning for Evan, who is Jackson's godson. Diana Ross, who was in attendance, was named in Jackson's will as a possible custodian for his children. 

—Reporting by Aly Weisman