George Michael passed away on Christmas 2016, capping off a year where celebrities seemed to drop left and right. Now the coroner has ruled on how he died.
George Michael’s death stunned fans of music around the world last December, as his passing was announced late in the day on Christmas. The man who created one of the few modern Christmas classic songs passing on the holiday seemed only more ironic in a year when it felt like everyone was dying.
But soon, nasty rumors started claiming that Michael’s death was no accident, but somehow included foul play by his long time boyfriend. Other outlets who thrive on these sorts of things, suggested this was proof that George Michael did indeed have AIDS, a long standing rumor (never proven) from the early 90s. After all, who just passes away at 53 in the 21st century?
The BBC announced this morning that, after an inquiry, neither of these things are true. From their press release:
"George Michael died as a result of heart and liver disease, a coroner has confirmed. The pop star suffered a dilated cardiomyopathy with myocarditis and fatty liver, according to Darren Salter, senior coroner for Oxfordshire."
What is dilated cardiomyopathy?
According to Medicine Net:
"Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a condition in which the heart’s ability to pump blood is decreased because the heart’s main pumping chamber, the left ventricle, is enlarged and weakened. In some cases, it prevents the heart from relaxing and filling with blood as it should."
Myocarditis is an inflammation (most likely from infection) of the heart muscles, brought on by dilated cardiomyopathy. In other words, George Michael died of a heart infection, brought on by a long term heart issue.
Next: The Biggest OMG Moments from the Grammy Awards
With this confirmation, George Michael’s funeral, which was put on hold for this inquiry, will be able to take place. Further details as events warrant.