Musicians, politicans and actors alike are mourning the death of British musician George Michael.
The other half of Wham, Andrew Ridgeley (right),was among those to pay tribute to George Michael. Photo: AFP
Michael, who launched his career with duo Wham in the 1980s and later continued his success as a solo performer, is said to have "passed away peacefully at home", early on Christmas afternoon (GMT).
Police have said they are treating the death as unexplained but there were no suspicious circumstances.
Musicians and others were quick to take to social media to voice their disbelief.
The other half of Wham, Andrew Ridgeley, said on Twitter he was "heartbroken" at Michael's death.
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
"I am in deep shock," said Elton John. "I have lost a beloved friend - the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist. My heart goes out to his family and all of his fans. @GeorgeMichael #RIP."
Fellow 80s superstars Duran Duran also tweeted their condolences.
2016 - loss of another talented soul. All our love and sympathy to @GeorgeMichael's family. pic.twitter.com/3h4xqEDXR9
— Duran Duran (@duranduran) December 25, 2016
Referencing some of Michael's biggest hits, Star Trek actor and LGBT rights activist George Takei said: "Rest with the glittering stars, George Michael. You've found your Freedom, your Faith. It was your Last Christmas, and we shall miss you."
Ellen DeGeneres and actor Ryan Reynolds were among others to pay their own tributes.
I just heard about my friend @GeorgeMichael's death. He was such a brilliant talent. I'm so sad.
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) December 25, 2016
George Michael was a kind and gentle soul. #Wham
— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) December 26, 2016
Unbelievable.
— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) December 25, 2016
RIP George Michael.
Ricky Gervais' writing partner Stephen Merchant recalled Michael's appearance on the Christmas special of their comedy series, Extras.
RIP George Michael. So good-humoured and self-deprecating when he joined us in Extras. 2016 just won't give us a break
— Stephen Merchant (@StephenMerchant) December 26, 2016
Even UK Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn expressed his sadness.
"Sad to hear that George Michael has died. He was an exceptional artist and a strong supporter of LGBT and workers' rights."
In New Zealand, local fans were also taken aback by the news.
Truly his Last Christmas. RIP George Michael.
— Aaron Hawkins (@CrAaronHawkins) December 25, 2016
I go off twitter for half an hour and George Michael has died.
— Megan (@meganjwhelan) December 25, 2016
As a 10-year-old, George Michael's political debut, "Wham Rap (Enjoy what you do)" was a revelation. Plus, 20 years later, "Shoot The Dog".
— Bryce Edwards (@bryce_edwards) December 25, 2016
2016 claims another victim. It takes away George Michael's heart on Christmas Day. Wham! Bam. You were the man.
— Felix Geiringer (@BarristerNZ) December 25, 2016
-RNZ/BBC
