Jackson honored with Las Vegas star

LAS VEGAS, Aug. 30 (UPI) -- The late pop star Michael Jackson has been honored in Las Vegas with a star on the Palms Casino Resort's Walk of Fame, his father says.

Jackson's father, Joe, spoke to those in attendance at Saturday's Walk of Fame event in honor the "Beat It" singer, who died on June 25 at the age of 50, People.com reported.

"I wish he was here to see this take place," Joe Jackson said.

Event emcee Robin Leach said the initial plan for the Walk of Fame event was for Jackson to accept the star following the pop star's series of London performances this year.

The Walk of Fame star dedicated to Jackson rests in front of Las Vegas' Brenden Theatres.

People magazine said singer Liza Minnelli also remembered the late pop star Saturday. Minnelli took time during a Los Angeles performance to offer some kind words about Jackson on what would have been his 51st birthday.

"Today would have been Michael Jackson's birthday. And I loved him with all of my heart, and I will miss him for the rest of my life," Minnelli said.