A year ago the King of Pop sent his 50th birthday watching cartoons according to reports from the Daily Telegraph.

I feel very wise and sage, but at the same time very young, the pop superstar said of reaching the milestone, the paper reported.

When the singer was last year asked about his birthday plans he said, I'll just have a little cake with my children and we'll probably watch some cartoons.

This year, despite his absence, many fans all over the world are celebrating the singers 51st birthday.

A free birthday bash open to the public will take place in New York's Prospect Park in Brooklyn where thousands are expected to turn up.