The untimely passing of music icon George Michael on Christmas Day 2016 sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, and now a compelling new documentary has shed light on the precise medical circumstances surrounding his tragic death.
According to medical evidence revealed in the Channel 4 documentary 'George Michael: Outed', the beloved Wham! star succumbed to dilated cardiomyopathy with myocarditis and a fatty liver. This combination of conditions ultimately led to his death at just 53 years old.
The Final Hours
George Michael was discovered unresponsive in his bed at his Goring-on-Thames, Oxfordshire home on December 25th, 2016. His partner, Fadi Fawaz, made the heartbreaking discovery that Christmas morning.
The documentary reveals that Michael had been in good spirits the evening before his death, even joining Fawaz for a Christmas Eve dinner. Tragically, this would be his final meal.
Understanding the Medical Conditions
Dilated cardiomyopathy is a serious condition where the heart muscle becomes stretched and thin, compromising its ability to pump blood effectively throughout the body. When combined with myocarditis - an inflammation of the heart muscle - the risk of fatal complications increases significantly.
The presence of a fatty liver further complicated his health situation, though the documentary clarifies this was not linked to alcohol consumption.
A Pattern of Health Struggles
This wasn't Michael's first serious health crisis. In 2011, the singer nearly died from pneumonia, requiring an emergency tracheotomy to save his life. He described this experience as "touch and go" during his recovery period.
The documentary also touches on Michael's complex relationship with his sexuality and the immense pressure of fame, factors that may have contributed to his overall health challenges throughout his career.
Despite his immense success as both a member of Wham! and as a solo artist, selling over 115 million records worldwide, George Michael's life was cut tragically short by underlying health conditions that went largely unnoticed by the public until it was too late.
