George Michael, a teenage music idol of the 1980s, died over the Christmas holiday. He was 53.
According to TMZ.com, Michael died at his home in England; sources said the singer died in his sleep from heart failure. He had not been ill and was working on a Showtime movie about his life, TMZ reported.
A co-star of the pop duo Wham! and later a solo artist, Michael was best known for Wham! hits such as “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go,” “Careless Whisper” and “Everything She Wants.” His popular solo songs included “Faith” and “I Want Your Sex.”
Michael died peacefully at his home, according to his publicist.
“It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George passed away peacefully,” a statement from the publicist read. “The family would ask their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time. There will be no further comment at this stage.”
The Recording Academy President and CEO Neil Portnow issued the following statement about the two-time GRAMMY Award recipient.
“We are deeply saddened,” Portnow said. “During an influential career that spanned nearly four decades, George became one of the most beloved pop craftsmen and respected entertainers. From the enormous success he achieved with pop due Wham! to his influential solo career, his extraordinary talent had a profound impact on countless entertainers worldwide, and his creative contributions will live on forever.”
–City News Service and staff