George Michael, one of the biggest pop stars of all time, has died on Christmas Day at 53 years old at his home in Oxfordshire, England. The death is being described as “unexplained but not suspicious” and the pop legend is said to have died peacefully.
Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou (George Michael was his stage name) was born on June 25th 1963 in London, England and became a massive star in the mid-eighties as one half of the group Wham! (with Andrew Ridgeley). Michael’s work with Wham! included hits “Last Christmas”, “Wake Me Up Before You Go Go”, and “Careless Whisper”. After Wham! broke up Michael went on to create more solo hits including “Freedom! ’90” and “Faith”.
George Michael was one of those rare talents who was able to transcend pop music to become a pop cultural icon and his work will be remembered along with other pop music greats. He had the look, he had the moves, and he had the songs to back it all up.
Long time friend Elton John expressed his sorrow on his Instagram account:
“I am in deep shock. I have lost a beloved friend – the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist. My heart goes out to his family, friends and all of his fans. @GeorgeMichael #RIP”
Unbelievable.
RIP George Michael.— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) December 25, 2016
2016 – loss of another talented soul. All our love and sympathy to @GeorgeMichael's family. pic.twitter.com/3h4xqEDXR9
— Duran Duran (@duranduran) December 25, 2016
I don't have it in me anymore to write about our greats. I just knew one day I'd get to work with #GeorgeMichael. Sad Christmas.
— Questlove Gomez (@questlove) December 25, 2016
