George Michael has died at 53

by: Will McCarthy Dec 25, 2016

Today, December 25, George Michael died at age 53. BBC News reports that the singer “passed away peacefully at home.” At press time, no cause of death is officially available, but law enforcement does not believe any suspicious circumstances to have been a factor. George Michael’s publicist issued the following statement:

“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.”

As both a solo artist and the principal singer of Wham!, George Michael was regarded as a pioneer of ’80s pop and dance music, and considered by many to be an LGBT icon.The artist provided the voice for many of the 1980s’ most memorable songs, including “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go,” “Careless Whisper,” and “Faith.”

Rest in peace, George Michael.