George Michael, the British pop superstar who reached early fame with WHAM! dies at 53.
George Michael has died, age 53, BBC and the Press Association report.
He "passed away peacefully at his home," his publicist told the Press Association.
Police say there were no suspicious circumstances, the BBC is reporting.
The star launched his career with Wham in the 1980s and later had a successful solo career.
In a statement supplied to BBC, Michael'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.
"The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time. There will be no further comment at this stage."
The singer nearly died from pneumonia in late 2011. After receiving treatment in a Vienna hospital, he made an appearance outside his London home and said it had been "touch and go" whether he lived.
Doctors had performed a tracheotomy to keep his airways open and he was unconscious for some of his spell in hospital.
Elton John has lead the tributes to the star on social media by posting a heartfelt message along with a picture of the pair together, on his Instagram page.
He wrote: "I am in deep shock. I have lost a beloved friend - the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist. My heart goes out to his family and all of his fans. @GeorgeMichael #RIP"
While former footballer Gary Lineker posted: "No, not George Michael as well. Another musical great leaves us this year. 2016 can just sod off. #RIPGeorge."
Electro star Gary Numan tweeted: "Oh no. George Michael RIP."
The official account of eighties pop group Duran Duran also paid their respects by tweeting: '2016 - loss of another talented sould. All our love and sympathy to @GeorgeMichael's family.'
Oh no 😞 I can't believe this. Such a big influence 😞 G @GeorgeMichael RIP
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DECEMBER Dec 2 - Andrew Sachs (86, British actor who became a household name as Manuel in the 1970s sitcom Fawlty Towers) Dec 18 - Zsa Zsa Gabor (99, Hungarian-American actress and socialite) Dec 24 - Rick Parfitt (68, Status Quo singer/guitarist) Dec 25 - George Michael (53, British pop superstar)
