IT’S BEEN JUST over 16 months since George Michael’s passing on Christmas Day 2016.
Honouring the singer in the time that has passed since his death at the age of 53, fans have continued to leave soft toys and floral tributes outside his homes in London and Oxfordshire.
However, George’s family, who referred to him as Yog in the statement released on his official website this week, have called for a stop to the practice, citing their desire to see his former neighbourhoods returned to their original state.
We’ve been touched by your many tributes celebrating and remembering Yog, reminding us how very much he is missed and loved.
While deeply appreciative of the gestures, the singer’s father and siblings alluded to the impact the memorials may have on the singer’s former neighbours.
We feel we cannot expect our Highgate and Goring neighbours to continue to accept as normality, the memorials so personal to you all, to remain as and where they are any longer, although we do appreciate your recent efforts to minimise their impact.
Speaking on behalf of their late family member, Mel and Yioda Panayiotou and Jack Panos reminded fans of George’s attachment to the homes he created for himself, and the esteem in which he held his neighbourhoods.
Yog liked his privacy, his homes were true havens for him (such a Cancerian!) and, ultimately, long term, we know he would not want to disturb or change the quiet neighbourhoods he so loved, for the people in the local area, who honestly, despite reports otherwise, have been gracious and very understanding.
George’s family suggested that instead of leaving tributes at his former home, fans might make a donation or volunteer at a charity.
