George Michael net worth estimated at £105 million
Music icon George Michael is believed to have left great wealth — an estimate of £105 million or $130 million — despite being extremely generous to charities, family, and friends while he was alive.
The estimate on Michael's net worth was provided by Britain's Sunday Times, which comes up with "rich list" of top earners in the U.K. and Ireland on an annual basis. He places 22nd on Time's top 50 "millionaire" musicians, which also have the likes of Paul McCartney, Elton John, Mick Jagger, Phil Collins, and Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin.
Michael's wealth includes multimillion-dollar homes in North London, Oxfordshire, Los Angeles, and Sydney, as well as an extensive collection of expensive fine arts which he had amassed with former partner Kenny Goss.
It is believed that part of the "Careless Whisper" crooner's wealth will be left to his godchildren, including children of his celebrity friends. Such include Roman and Harley Kemp, whose parents are Wham! bandmate Shirlie Holliman and Spandau Ballet bassist Martin Kemp, The Daily Mail reports.
Meanwhile, Daily Mirror suggests that Geri Halliwell's daughter Bluebell, godchild of Goss, will also receive a portion of his estate.
The star's sisters, Melanie and Yioda, and his partner, Fadi Fawaz, are also expected to be recipients of the wealth that he left behind.
Stories of Michael's extreme generosity follow news of his death on Christmas day. Despite his many charitable deeds, which are often carried out anonymously and discretely, and enjoying a luxurious lifestyle, it is believed that Michael had managed his fortune well.
He amassed his vast wealth from selling over 100 million albums, going on big tours as part of the 80s duo WHAM!, and later, as a solo performer.
The star would also reportedly appear at smaller and private events. In New Year's Eve in 2006, billionaire Russian Vladimir Potanin reportedly paid him £1.78m for a private gig. Meanwhile, Topshop owner Sir Philip Green spent £1.5m to have Michael perform at his 55th birthday celebration in 2007.
