Sad news broke on Sunday, Dec. 25, that George Michael passed away at his home in Goring, England at the age of 53.
His family released a statement confirming his death and asking for privacy during this time.
“It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George Michael passed away peacefully over the Christmas period,” the statement said. "The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time."
Early reports, citing Michael's manager, have indicated that the singing sensation died of heart failure.
His death not only stunned his fans around the world, but also sent a shock wave through the entertainment community and many stars reacted via social media with their grief, condolences and disbelief at his passing.
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
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
#GM had a voice that would transport u, he was the finest singer/songwriter of his generation & has left the best of himself 4 us. RIP GM xx pic.twitter.com/Gjcp55Chei
— Andrew Ridgeley (@ajridgeley) December 26, 2016
Unbelievable.
RIP George Michael.— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) December 25, 2016
George Michael was a kind and gentle soul. #Wham
— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) December 26, 2016
Had the pleasure of knowing George Michael in the 80s. Voice of an angel. Now he can sing for them.
— Rob Lowe (@RobLowe) December 26, 2016
Is this year over yet? Too many people are passing away. Rest In Peace, George Michael. ☹️
— William Shatner (@WilliamShatner) December 25, 2016
Another beautiful voice gone too soon. #ripgeorgemichael
— josh groban (@joshgroban) December 26, 2016
Another beautiful talent taken away. Rest in power @GeorgeMichael. 2016 is just brutal. ????
— Chaka Khan (@ChakaKhan) December 26, 2016
Very sad to hear that George Michael passed. He was a very talented musician and singer. Love & mercy to his family, friends and fans.
— Brian Wilson (@BrianWilsonLive) December 25, 2016
R.I.P George Michael. Beyond sad, you were a legend, and you were far too young. Blasting "Last Christmas" now ????
— OneRepublic (@OneRepublic) December 25, 2016
Sad news on Christmas...2016 takes George Michaels. I did a photo shoot with him once. If you can find the shots please post them? #peace
— Melissa Etheridge (@metheridge) December 26, 2016
RIP George Michael. I can't believe it. Such an incredible singer and a lovely human being, far too young to leave us #georgemichael
— Bryan Adams (@bryanadams) December 25, 2016
Stunned. George Michael. A talented and gentle soul. May you rest in Gods love and Peace ???????? #RIPGeorgeMichael
— MC HAMMER (@MCHammer) December 26, 2016
Oh God no …I love you George …Rest In Peace x
— Robbie Williams (@robbiewilliams) December 26, 2016
My god. Rest in paradise @GeorgeMichael--an icon, an ally, a legend. pic.twitter.com/MfxPVFG0B2
— Margaret Cho (@margaretcho) December 25, 2016
Wow. RIP George Michael pic.twitter.com/sVgRYnfm6J
— Randy Jackson (@YO_RANDYJACKSON) December 25, 2016
George Michael ???????? You were such an inspiration. I'm honored to have not only been your fan, but a friend as well. May you rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/jJKSz22fHH
— Mariah Carey (@MariahCarey) December 26, 2016
Rest with the glittering stars, George Michael. You've found your Freedom, your Faith. It was your Last Christmas, and we shall miss you.
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) December 25, 2016
There has been a critical error on your website.<\/p>
Learn more about debugging in WordPress.<\/a><\/p>","data":{"status":500},"additional_errors":[]}