Yahoo News Elton John, Madonna and more share their grief over George Michael while fans flock to his home
An outpouring of grief continues today on social media, as friends and fans of George Michael learn the sad news that the icon has died of suspected heart failure aged 53.
Tributes to the singer – who passed away at his Oxfordshire home on Christmas day – have flooded Twitter, Instagram and news outlets.
And hundreds of fans have flocked to both his north London mansion and his home in Oxford – where he was found – to say a final farewell to their hero.
Fellow singers Elton John and Madonna led the way with moving tributes.
A photo posted by Elton John (@eltonjohn) on Dec 25, 2016 at 3:24pm PST
God didn't give it, you did my old friend.
Cleft with grief.
A xx https://t.co/yPzbB3rDGE— Andrew Ridgeley (@ajridgeley) December 26, 2016
Gary Linekar said on Twitter:
“Wouldn’t it be lovely if death gave us a day’s notice so giants like George Michael could see how much they were revered and adored.”
A photo posted by Linda Evangelista (@lindaevangelista) on Dec 25, 2016 at 3:55pm PST
Stephen Merchant commented:
“RIP George Michael. So good-humoured and self-deprecating when he joined us in Extras. 2016 just won’t give us a break.”
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
Ricky Gervais added:
“Watching “It’s a Wonderful Life” and realising that in 2016 its message is more poignant than ever.”
Farewell My Friend! ???????? Another Great Artist leaves us. ????Can 2016 Fuck Off NOW?
A video posted by Madonna (@madonna) on Dec 25, 2016 at 5:09pm PST
Pet Shop Boys
“Dear George, gone too soon. It’s so sad. Heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Love, Neil and Chris x”
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
Universal Music have just sent through this statement:
“We’re in shock at the loss of one of the greatest singer songwriters.The brilliance of his music, the soundtrack to so many lives, will live for ever.Our deepest condolences to George’s family and friends from everyone at Universal Music.”
George Michael wrote Praying for Time 25 years ago but I truly believe it's message means more now than ever. https://t.co/f03zlWYbLa
— James Corden (@JKCorden) December 25, 2016
David Walliams has been tweeting George’s famous song lyrics all morning:
Paul Young told BBC News:
“He had an incredible pop sensibility and had a voice that cut straight through to your heart.”
Frank Sinatra's amazing letter to George Michael after the latter complained about fame. One for all stars to ponder. pic.twitter.com/nXiJMWhyYK
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) December 26, 2016
Antony Costa from Blue told BBC News:
“Our families knew each other through various things. When Blue came out in 2001 he was a firm follower. When I met him back in 2005 on Top Of The Pops he was nothing but lovely, we’re from the same area, both north west London boys. I met him outside the Heart FM building when he was promoting his latest single. Everytime he met me he used to say it was so nice all the nice things I said about him and I grew up with his music, I’m absolutely devasated. I’ve been crying all morning. I feel like i’ve lost a family member even though he wasn’t.
“I even used to watch his mic techniques when he was singing and emulate his voice. I feel for his family, and his dad Jack. My heart goes out to them.”
