George Michael, born Kyriacos Panayiotou, passed away on December 25, 2016. He was found at his home in Goring-on-Thames, England, and the cause of death was later determined to be heart disease and fatty liver. His untimely death shocked fans and the music industry, as he was a celebrated artist known for his powerful voice and significant contributions to pop music.
Rising to fame in the 1980s as part of the duo Wham!, Michael went on to have a successful solo career with hits like “Faith,” “Careless Whisper,” and “Freedom! ’90.” Beyond his music, he was known for his philanthropic efforts and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, making a lasting impact on both the music world and society.
His legacy endures through his timeless songs and the influence he had on generations of artists and fans. In the years since his passing, tributes and celebrations of his life and work have continued, highlighting his status as an iconic figure in pop culture.