Singer George Michael passed away on Sunday at the age of 53.
In a press release, his manager Michael Lippman stated that the singer had "passed away peacefully at home over the Christmas period."
According to PA, Lippman stated that the former Wham! frontman is believed to have suffered a heart failure. Thames Valley Police said officers were called to a property in Goring-on-Thames shortly before 2pm on Christmas Day.
"At this stage the death is being treated as unexplained but not suspicious," a spokesperson for the force said. "A post-mortem will be undertaken in due course."
The news was greeted with huge sadness on social media. Elton John lead the tributes to the late star, posting on Instagram that he was in shock at the loss of a "beloved friend."
The pair famously collaborated on a rendition of Elton's classic 'Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me,' released in 1992.
Former bandmate Andrew Ridgley took to Twitter to pay his tribute, saying he was "heartbroken" at the loss.
Heartbroken at the loss of my beloved friend Yog. Me, his loved ones, his friends, the world of music, the world at large. 4ever loved. A xx https://t.co/OlGTm4D9O6
— Andrew Ridgeley (@ajridgeley) December 26, 2016
Boy George also shared his thougts, stating on his Twitter account that: "He was so loved and I hope he knew it because the sadness today is beyond words. Devastating. What a beautiful voice he had and his music will live on as a testament to his talent."
Friends and fans alike posted their favourite tracks or their lasting memories of the star, as the news spread.
Unbelievable.
RIP George Michael.— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) December 25, 2016
#LastChristmas was playing loudly at my family Christmas gathering as it does every year, and will continue to do every Christmas to come...
— Dannii Minogue (@DanniiMinogue) 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
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
Farewell My Friend! ðŸ™ðŸ» Another Great Artist leaves us. 💔Can 2016 Fuck Off NOW? pic.twitter.com/aEGIUNSJbt
— Madonna (@Madonna) December 26, 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
We've lost another friend. Watching Band Aid is going to get even harder and more sad. Goodnight George Michael. RIP.
— Bob Geldof (@BobGeldofFans) December 26, 2016
While fans pointed out how young the singer was when some of his biggest hits were released, including 'Careless Whisper' and 'Wake Me Up Before You Go Go,' many also shared his version of the Queen song 'Somebody to Love.'
Michael performed the song for a tribute concert after the death of Freddie Mercury in 1991, and here, in this clip highlighted by Guardian journalist Simon Ricketts, he prepares for the concert and proceeds to "blow a rehearsal room away," including the late David Bowie, who can be seen in the background.
