By Adenike Lucas

Pop superstar George Michael has died peacefully at his home in Goring-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, his publicist has said.

The 53-year-old singer – born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou – launched his career with Wham! in the 1980s.

The two time Grammy award musician who was forced to go public about his sexuality, also made a name has a soloist. His debut solo album, sold more than 25 million copies worldwide, and was a four times platinum selling album in the United States.

The star’s publicist who broke the news of his death in a statement issued at 11pm on Christmas day said he was found “in bed, lying in peacefully.”

In the statement, Michael Lippman said: “It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George passed away peacefully at home over the Christmas period.

“The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time. There will be no further comment at this stage.”