Michael Jackson is celebrating the 25th anniversary of his historical album “Thriller” by regaling fans with “Thriller 25,” a special extended edition released Tuesday, Feb. 12, in the United States, and several other surprises.

It has been two and a half decades since former child performer turned international superstar Michael Jackson released the world's best-selling album, “Thriller.” While Jackson’s personal life may have diverted media attention over the past years from his music to his uhm, uniqueness, 2008 has apparently been designated as the year to honor the pop icon he is.

“It's hard to believe that 25 years ago Quincy Jones and I embarked on an album named ‘Thriller,’” Jackson said in a video message released Monday by record company Sony-BMG.

“To be able to say that ‘Thriller’ still holds the record as the biggest selling album of all time is just mind-blowing. I have you, my fans throughout the world, to thank for this achievement.”

The King of Pop endeavors to please his fans around the world, and perhaps even gain some new ones, by releasing the remastered 25th anniversary edition, which features artists including will.i.am, Kanye West and Akon.

“Thriller” has sold more than 100 million copies; seven of the nine tracks were top-10 singles. And Jackson says his musical efforts are not over.

“There is still much more to come for Michael Jackson. My passion for music has never stopped…It's my hope that Thriller continues to live on for each new generation to discover.”

Fans can expect a 40-part commemorative podcast, a YouTube dance-video contest, as well as an XM Satellite Radio station devoted entirely to Jackson's music during March.

“Thriller 25” features the original nine songs and an additional seven tracks benefiting from other artists’ collaboration, such as “Beat It 2008,” featuring Fergie and Kanye West's “Billie Jean 2008” remix. Jackson provide updated vocals and production.

The album comes with a bonus DVD with the famous videos for “Thriller,” “Beat It” and “Billie Jean” as well as Jackson's Emmy-nominated performance of Billie Jean from the NBC special Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever.

The set comes in three versions: one with original cover art, one with a new “zombie” cover and a deluxe edition with a booklet.