Joe Jackson may be more popular in Brazil than he is in the United States. While the patriarch of the Jackson family of musicians has had to battle a public perception of him as an abusive father and opportunistic promoter, he seems to love going to Sao Paulo, where he is welcomed with open arms.

In fact, Joe Jackson headed to Sao Paulo to celebrate his 87th birthday. Maybe he has to go that far because his wife won’t celebrate birthdays.

The news before the party was that “hundreds of revelers” were expected to turn up to honor Joe Jackson. Samba dancers, Brazilian decor and local fare was on the offering — hosted by the Nexxing marketing group. Local celebrities Ivete Sangalo and Claudia Leitte were on the guest list.

At any rate, according to news out of Sao Paulo, Joe Jackson never made it to his 87th birthday bash. Instead, he ended up in the hospital, where he still has irregular heartbeat issues.

JOE JACKSON that's one tear i won't shed…

— liza sabater (@blogdiva) July 27, 2015

Joe Jackson issued a statement on his website.

“To my family, friends, acquaintances and fans all over the world. I want to thank you all for your prayers, unwavering support and kind well wishes during these trying times. Through God’s intervention the wonderful Doctors, Nurses and caretakers at the Albert Einstein Sao Paulo hospital have taken great care of me,” Jackson wrote. “God willing, I should be able to make a quick recovery and travel back home soon. Thank you all once again for your prayers and support.”

Joe Jackson hopes to leave Brazil early this week, but will have to see if doctors say he is well enough to travel. Joe Jackson has suffered minor strokes in the past and is in intensive care.

Lawd Brazilian T&A almost killed old Joe Jackson.

— Rita Lawson's Boy (@fokised1) July 28, 2015