Elton John Leads Tributes To George Michael Following Superstar's Shock Death

Elton John Leads Tributes To George Michael Following Superstar's Shock Death
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British singer George Michael performs on stage during a charity gala for the benefit of Sidaction, at the Opera Garnier in Paris, on September 9, 2012. Sidaction is a charity event which aims to collect money for the struggle against AIDS virus. AFP PHOTO MIGUEL MEDINA (Photo credit should read MIGUEL MEDINA/AFP/GettyImages)
MIGUEL MEDINA via Getty Images

Sir Elton John has led tributes to George Michael, following the pop superstar's death today aged 53.

The former Wham! singer turned global hitmaker died at his home in Oxfordshire, and his passing has sent waves of shock and sadness around the entertainment world, in which he remained so loved and respected, despite becoming relatively reclusive in recent years.

Sir Elton shared his grief on social media tonight, expressing his shock and saying, "I have lost a beloved friend, the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist."

Other high-profile figures from the entertainment world have also shared their sadness and paid tribute to the superstar, including those bands including Duran Duran and Spandau Ballet who made their names during the same era as Wham!

2016 - loss of another talented soul. All our love and sympathy to @GeorgeMichael's family. pic.twitter.com/3h4xqEDXR9

— Duran Duran (@duranduran) December 25, 2016

We are incredibly sad at the passing of our dear friend George Michael. A brilliant artist & great songwriter. Spandau Ballet / Steve Dagger

— Spandau Ballet (@SpandauBallet) December 25, 2016

George ? George Michael ? No ... it cannot be. Beyond sad. #RIPGeorgeMichael Bri

— Dr. Brian May (@DrBrianMay) December 25, 2016

Other pop stars joined figures from the entertainment world in saluting a star whose three decades of music gave fans such a huge part of the soundtrack of their formative years.

George Michael was part of the tapestry of my life. His songs his lyrics & his melodies, True pop royalty! Heartbroken, RIP dearest George.

— Matt Goss (@mattgoss) December 25, 2016

If u r of a certain age like me George Michael was the soundtrack to our highs & lows , loves & losts in the 80's.Part of us goes with him.

— Eamonn Holmes (@EamonnHolmes) December 25, 2016

i bought (& worshipped) Listen Without Prejudice on my 15th birthday. this song readied me for Stevie Wonder... https://t.co/a3gnL9DnfT...

— Mark Ronson (@MarkRonson) December 25, 2016

I met George Michael a few times & he was ever a gentle, unassuming soul.A rare presence in a world full of self.

Honest, genuine talent.

— Alison Moyet (@AlisonMoyet) December 25, 2016

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

M

— Meat Loaf (@RealMeatLoaf) December 25, 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

Unbelievable ! One of my musical heroes. Nice man. Peace and love George Michael.

— Jason Donovan (@JDonOfficial) December 25, 2016

Unbelievable, George Michael has died at the age of 53. RIP.This dreadful year goes on and on.So sad, a real talent.

— Tony Blackburn (@tonyblackburn) December 25, 2016

Rest with the glittering stars, George Michael. You've found your Freedom, your Faith. It was your Last Christmas, and we shall miss you.

— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) December 25, 2016

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