The singer died unexpectedly on Christmas Day
Last night, the news of George Michael’s death hit the world after it was reported that the 53-year-old singer ‘passed away peacefully at home’ in Goring, Oxfordshire.
George Michael’s family announced the news of his death in a statement issued through his publicist, Michael Lippman, that read:
‘It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George passed away peacefully at home over the Christmas period. The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time. There will be no further comment at this stage.’
Having launched his stellar career back in the 1980s with pop duo Wham!, George Michael was loved by many across the globe. Former Wham! bandmate, and schoolfriend, Andrew Ridgeley, said he was ‘heartbroken at the loss of my beloved friend’.
As Wham!, the pair reached number one four times, and their 1984 song Last Christmas remains one of the most enduring Christmas songs out there, and is even currently in the UK singles chart as number 16.
Elton John has paid tribute saying: ‘I am in deep shock. I have lost a beloved friend – the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist.’
Carpool Karaoke talkshow host James Corden also tweeted: ‘I’ve loved George Michael for as long as I can remember. ‘George Michael wrote Praying for Time 25 years ago but I truly believe its message means more now than ever.’
I've loved George Michael for as long as I can remember. He was an absolute inspiration. Always ahead of his time.
— James Corden (@JKCorden) December 25, 2016
George Michael – 'You Have Been Loved'. https://t.co/U7n14sntxV
— David Walliams (@davidwalliams) December 25, 2016
The north London-born singer sold more than 100 million albums throughout his career that spanned almost 40 years, and his music and charismatic personality touched the hearts of many. Everyone from Ryan Reynolds, to Whoopi Goldberg and Ellen Degeneres have paid tribute to the star on their Twitter feeds, and Boxing Day is sure to be filled with many more to come.
Farewell My Friend! ?? Another Great Artist leaves us. ?Can 2016 Fuck Off NOW? pic.twitter.com/aEGIUNSJbt
— Madonna (@Madonna) December 26, 2016
R.I.P. George Michael…
Thankful for the music…— Whoopi Goldberg (@WhoopiGoldberg) December 26, 2016
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George Michael – Rest in Peace brilliant Legend. I despair of 2016. Thank you for all the ecstatic joy. Xxxxxx pic.twitter.com/dgrEcymxKS
— Gwendoline Christie (@lovegwendoline) December 25, 2016
Omg #GeorgeMichael noooo! No No No No No! We have lost too many beautiful souls this year. #rip you will be greatly missed.
— LeAnn Rimes Cibrian (@leannrimes) December 25, 2016
This Christmas is beautiful yet sad as I remember @GeorgeMichael and his amazing talent and the beauty he created with songs.
— Tyra Banks (@tyrabanks) December 26, 2016
George Michael was a kind and gentle soul. #Wham
— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) December 26, 2016
So sorry to hear about George Michael's passing. Brilliant icon. "Kissing a Fool" one of my all time favs. Strength & light to his family.
— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) December 26, 2016
Unbelievable.
RIP George Michael.— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) December 25, 2016
I just heard about my friend @GeorgeMichael's death. He was such a brilliant talent. I'm so sad.
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) December 25, 2016
Rest in peace, George Michael.
