George Michael musical 'in the works' with plans to 'take show to London'
Evening Standard's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
George Michael’s life is reportedly being turned into a Broadway musical with plans to take the show to London.
The Wham! star, who died aged 53 on Christmas Day in 2016, has sold more than 100 million records with global hits like Careless Whisper, Faith and Fast Love.
His sister Yioda Panayiotou, 64, is thought to have held secret talks with producers and reportedly wants to turn some of his biggest hits into a show.
The musical would trace Michael’s career from his fame with Wham! in the 1980s to his hugely successful solo career, according to The Sun.
It is hoped the show achieves the success of cult musical hits like Hamilton and be taken to London’s West End, sources claimed.
“Over the years George’s family have rejected countless big-money deals to turn his life into a biopic or stage show,” an insider said.
They added: “But in recent months Yioda has warmed to the idea - especially with this year marking a decade since her brother’s passing.
The show is reportedly being workshopped in New York and with seven-time Olivier Award nominee Maria Friedman is thought to be tipped to direct it.
Read More
Evening Standard has contacted Michael’s estate for comment.
Michael died at his home in Goring-on-Thames, Oxfordshire in 2016.
He had suffered from a weakened and inflamed heart and he died from natural causes, a coroner said at the time.
The singer catapulted to fame in the 1980s alongside Andrew Ridgeley with their band Wham!
Their song, Last Christmas, continues to top the UK music charts.
Michael went solo in 1987 and attained even higher levels of fame, scoring seven number one singles in the UK.
Reports of his Broadway musical come after it was revealed a long-lost film of his 1988 concert and live album will be released later this year.