Michael Jackson's eldest son paid tribute to the late singer ahead of his 18th birthday.

Prince Jackson

Prince Jackson

Prince Jackson praised his "incredible" father, who passed away at the age of 50 from a cardiac arrest in June 2009, and other family members on Twitter shortly before celebrating the milestone today (13.02.15).

In the heartfelt message, he wrote: "Before I turn 18 tomorrow I really want to thank a few ppl and first is obviously my dad he was and is an incredible human being not only did he give me the gift of live he gave me an incredible opportunity to make something of myself (sic)."

Prince, who has two younger siblings, Paris, 16, and Blanket, 12, also thanked his cousin TJ Jackson, and grandmother Katherine Jackson, who were made their legal guardians after the 'Thriller' hitmaker's death, for helping to "shape" the person he has become.

He wrote: "Secondly my cousin/guardian TJ, he has made so many sacrifices to help me along and he's been there when I needed him and helped shape who I am. Finally my grandmother/guardian she has been through so much and is such a strong woman to have to live so much she's an inspiration to keep going no matter what and have always been there for us and I love then all."

Prince, who is dating Nikita Bess, is expected to celebrate the special occasion with a lavish party in Los Angeles tonight.

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