Spike Lee throws Michael Jackson a birthday bash in Brooklyn

Spike Lee throws Jackson birthday bash in Brooklyn

NEW YORK — Thousands of Michael Jackson fans are dancing the rain away in a Brooklyn park at a celebration hosted by filmmaker Spike Lee.

The party marks what would have been the 51st birthday of the late pop star.

After a slow start amid heavy rain, a sizable crowd turned out at Brooklyn’s Prospect Park to listen to a DJ spin Jackson’s hits.

Many showed up wearing fedoras and T-shirts with Jackson’s image. A few wore white gloves.

Lee directed two music videos for Jackson in 1996.

He told reporters, “I was just like everyone else. I loved his talent.”

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

NEW YORK (AP) — Filmmaker Spike Lee is throwing Michael Jackson a birthday party.

The party will be held in a Brooklyn park Saturday on what would have been the 51st birthday of the late pop star.

Organizers say the party will go on despite heavy rain and possible thunderstorms.

They expect thousands to gather on a 15-acre lawn in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park. The party officially begins at noon and ends at 5 p.m.

In 1996, Lee directed two music videos for Jackson’s song, “They Don’t Care About Us.”