BREAKING: George Michael died of natural causes, coroner confirms

A coroner has confirmed that singer George Michael died of natural causes.

The star’s death has been under investigation since he was found in his bed on Christmas day by his partner, Fadi Fawaz, and now Darren Salter, a senior coroner from Oxfordshire, has made an official ruling.

According to Salter, George suffered a dilated cardiomyopathy with myocarditis and fatty liver, causing his death at the age of 53.

The coroner said in a statement: “Inquires into the death of George Michael have been concluded and the final post-mortem report received.

“As there is a confirmed natural cause of death, being dilated cardiomyopathy with myocarditis and fatty liver, the investigation is being discontinued and there is no need for an inquest or any further enquiries.

“No further updates will be provided and the family requests the media and public respect their privacy.”

Thames Valley Police originally stated that George’s death was “unexplained but not suspicious” with an initial post-mortem examination proving “inconclusive”.

It is though that the star’s body will now be released and his friends and family will be able to arrange for his funeral to take place.

[ Broadcast of George Michael’s ‘final ever performance’ delayed ]