The death was unexpected 

Pop star George Michael has passed away, his publicist confirms. The singer died over the Christmas period at the age of 53 at his home in Goring in Oxfordshire, located in Southeast England.

“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 publicist says in a statement. “The family would ask their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time. There will be no further comment at this stage.”

The Hollywood Reporter reports Michael died of heart failure. Police say no foul play was involved but the death was unexpected.

Michael launched his career as a member of the 80’s band Wham! before launching his own successful solo career. He has sold more than 100 million albums worldwide over four decades. In early November, it was announced that Michael was putting the finishes touches on his film Freedom, featuring “some incredible, unseen archive footage.” The documentary is set to debut in March 2017. The Listen Without Prejudice reissue was also pushed back to coincide with the release.

Many stars have taken to social media to express their thoughts.

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