George Michael secretly donated millions of pounds throughout his life to various charities and individuals, often anonymously, according to author Sathnam Sanghera in his new book, "Tonight the Music Seems So Loud." While the British singer-songwriter, who died on Christmas Day 2016, had a public life that was frequently scrutinized, his extensive charitable giving remained largely unknown.
Sanghera told Fox News Digital that the full extent of Michael's generosity may never be known because of its secret nature. The singer died with an estimated net worth of approximately 97 million pounds (over $128 million), and his estate continues to make significant donations.
Michael's philanthropic efforts began as early as the 1980s, during his time with Wham!. He supported causes including children's welfare, HIV/AIDS charities, homeless shelters, and disadvantaged youth programs. He also funded IVF treatments and assisted individuals in debt.
His generosity extended beyond monetary donations. Michael volunteered at a London homeless shelter, serving food and listening to guests' stories while disguised in jeans and a baseball cap to maintain anonymity. If mistaken for the singer, he would attribute the resemblance to a common comparison.
Michael's former partner, Kenny Goss, has shared accounts of Michael directing donations of £20,000 to £30,000 to local charities at each venue where he performed, often focusing on children or nursing causes. He would also invite charity staff and beneficiaries to attend his concerts.
Key Philanthropic Acts
In 1990, Michael established the Platinum Trust with his sister Yioda to support disabled individuals. He donated royalties from his 1991 duet with Elton John, "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me," to the Terrence Higgins Trust, an HIV awareness organization. Proceeds from his 1996 song "Jesus to a Child" went to Childline, with the organization's founder noting that Michael donated millions over the years while requesting his contributions remain private.
In 1999, Michael performed at Net Aid to aid refugees from Kosovo, donating half a million pounds. Sanghera noted that Michael was reportedly displeased when this act became public.
Michael also contributed to the Mercury Phoenix Trust, an AIDS-fighting organization founded in memory of Queen frontman Freddie Mercury. In a 1993 interview, Michael stated his reason for participating in a charity album was to ensure the tracks received exposure, emphasizing the importance of supporting the trust.
His support extended to individuals beyond formal charities. He helped the family of a former bodyguard, Nigel Browne, secure compensation after a helicopter crash. He also aided Martin Kemp in obtaining life-saving treatment for a brain tumor.
Sanghera recounted instances where Michael provided a helicopter for a terminally ill child to visit his home in the south of France, and he purchased houses and cars for friends and relatives, providing them with employment. His significant art collection was sold after his death, raising over £11 million for charity.
Michael's philanthropic approach prioritized sincerity and a lack of expectation for personal gain. Sanghera highlighted a lyric from Michael's song "Praying for Time," which critiques charity perceived as performative, contrasting it with Michael's consistent and genuine support for those in need.