Famed singer George Michael, who had some of the biggest hits of the 1980s with Wham! and as a solo artist, died Sunday at the age of 53.
According to the BBC, Michael’s death is considered to be unexplained, but there is no cause for suspicion.
“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,” Michaels’s publicist said in a statement. “The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time. There will be no further comment at this stage.”
On Instagram, Elton John paid tribute to his friend.
Among Michael’s biggest solo hits were “Faith,” “I Want Your Sex,” and “Father Figure.” With Andrew Ridgeley in Wham!, the duo’s most-love songs include “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go,” “Careless Whisper,” and, of course, “Last Christmas.”