George Michael dead: Twitter reacts to the passing of former Wham! lead singer

George Michael, the British pop superstar who reached early fame with WHAM! and went on to a solo career lined with controversies and chart-topping hits that blended soul and dance music with daring social and personal commentary, has died, his publicist said Sunday. He was 53. Michael died at his home in Goring, England . His publicist, Cindi Berger, said he had not been ill. Michael’s manager, Michael Lippman, says the cause of death was heart failure. His family issued a statement through Thames Valley Police saying that he “passed away peacefully at home over the Christmas period”. Various prominent personalities tweeted their reactions to the death of the iconic singer. Ellen DeGeneres, Ricky Gervais, James Corden, William Shatner lamented the loss.

I just heard about my friend @GeorgeMichael's death. He was such a brilliant talent. I'm so sad.

— The Ellen Show (@TheEllenShow) December 25, 2016

Unbelievable.
RIP George Michael.

— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) December 25, 2016

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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

R.I.P George Michael. Beyond sad, you were a legend, and you were far too young. Blasting "Last Christmas" now 🙏

— ONEREPUBLIC (@OneRepublic) December 25, 2016

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Is this year over yet? Too many people are passing away. Rest In Peace, George Michael. ☹️

— William Shatner (@WilliamShatner) December 25, 2016

God Bless George Michael , Say a prayer for him . A nice human .
M

— Meat Loaf (@RealMeatLoaf) December 25, 2016

Such very sad news to hear on Christmas Day that @GeorgeMichael has died. So young. Such a talent. RIP pic.twitter.com/dEVFo6t8sk

— Elaine Paige (@elaine_paige) December 25, 2016

George Michael was a kind and gentle soul. #Wham

— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) December 26, 2016

No, not George Michael as well. Another musical great leaves us this year. 2016 can just sod off. #RIPGeorge

— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) December 25, 2016

So sorry to hear about George Michael's passing. Brilliant icon. "Kissing a Fool" one of my all time favs. Strength & light to his family.

— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) December 26, 2016

2016 taking David Bowie, Prince and George Michael but leaving us with Donald Trump sums this year up pretty well.

— Alex Goldschmidt (@alexandergold) December 26, 2016

Just when we all needed a little more faith, George Michael leaves us. But we'll keep on dancing like you taught us to, George. RIP.

— Beau Willimon (@BeauWillimon) December 26, 2016

The bravery of George Michael. Please let 2017 bring the individuals, freaks, mavericks and those with love in their hearts for all. X pic.twitter.com/tsAqlBjFeu

— Gwendoline Christie (@lovegwendoline) December 26, 2016

I don't have it in me anymore to write about our greats. I just knew one day I'd get to work with #GeorgeMichael. Sad Christmas.

— ?st (@questlove) December 25, 2016

Another beautiful voice gone too soon. #ripgeorgemichael

— josh groban (@joshgroban) December 26, 2016

Had the pleasure of knowing George Michael in the 80s. Voice of an angel. Now he can sing for them.

— Rob Lowe (@RobLowe) December 26, 2016

Omg #GeorgeMichael noooo! No No No No No! We have lost too many beautiful souls this year. #rip you will be greatly missed.

— leann rimes cibrian (@leannrimes) December 25, 2016