Last night London celebrated the life of George Michael
- Text by Michael Segalov
- Photography by Theo McInnes
When news broke over the Christmas break that George Michael had died, tributes flocked in to the musical star from across the globe. His music, generosity and political integrity made him nothing short of an icon.
But George was particularly important to LGBT people in Britain and beyond. In 1998 he was arrested in California for “engaging in a lewd act” in a public bathroom with another man, and the tabloid press went into overdrive. Rather than apologise for being gay and sweep the incident under the carpet, George stood strong, unapologetic for his sex and sexuality.
For the following two decades George inspired queer people on both sides of the Atlantic (and beyond), clearing a path for others to be more open and accepting about being LGBT, and teaching a generation to say “fuck you” to any bigots who tried to stand in the way of progress.
In a fitting tribute, last night The Glory, a gay pub in East London, held a celebration of George’s life, opening the doors to those who wanted to sing, dance and remember. Club Tropicana was opened downstairs, the namesake of Wham!’s party classic, while drag shows, speeches and musical tributes went on all night.
“When George came out it was no surprise of course but it secured him as an important gay figure in popular culture.” says Jonny Woo. “They don’t make pop stars like George any more!”
RIP George.
Enjoyed this article? Like Huck on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
You might like
Is Field Maneuvers the most fun time ever? Yes probably
Collective joy — Huck’s art director Samuel White went to the 2026 edition, braving a wet start and interviewing FLINTA* collective and arm wrestling legends Uhaul Dyke Rescue in the process.
Written by: Samuel White
Jesse Glazzard’s messy portrait of queer friends, lovers and chosen family
The Sound of Dirt and Beauty — The photographer’s debut monograph explores tender, unpolished moments shaped by the people who he surrounds himself with, while offering a window into the UK’s working-class LGBTQ+ community.
Written by: Sunny Sunday
Activists slam “pervert glasses” in new guerrilla campaign
Everyone Hates Elon — Stickers have appeared on the London Underground network, criticising the wearable technology’s covert filming capabilities.
Written by: Isaac Muk
Behind the curtain at Alternative Miss World 1981
Olympia glamour — Running a subversive take on the traditional beauty pageant, the Andrew Logan organised event prioritised underground creativity and invention. Photographer David Corio went behind the scenes at its biggest edition.
Written by: Miss Rosen
Dan Lacey: “BMX is forever evolving”
Overground — Steph Pomphrey caught up with the two-wheel legend after his latest meet in east London, chatting about fatherhood, music and action sports within the outdoor industry.
Written by: Steph Pomphrey
The battle for the soul of lockpicking
Under locksport and key — In recent years, breaking locks for fun has grown from a niche hobby into an activity followed by millions of people. As it has matured, so have tensions over who sets the rules.
Written by: Jack Dennison-Thompson
