British-Greek singer George Michael—who launched his career with Wham! in the 1980s and later continued his success as a solo performer—has died at age 53, according to multiple sources, including the BBC.
Authorities said Michael “passed away peacefully at home” and that there were no suspicious circumstances.
Michael, who was openly gay, had previously dealt with depression and drug addiction, and almost died from pneumonia in 2011.
In a statement, the star’s publicist said: “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.”
ITV reported that Michael’s 1990 album Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1 had been set to be reissued, accompanied by a new film featuring Stevie Wonder, Elton John and the supermodels who starred in the video to his hit single “Freedom! ’90.”
His 1987 debut solo album, Faith, sold more than 20 million copies worldwide. Among his hit singles were the title song, “Father Figure,” “Praying for Time,” “Careless Whisper” and “I Want Your Sex.” Michael and Andrew Ridgeley formed Wham!, and they dominated the 1980s with songs such as “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Everything She Wants.”