George Michael's Sister Found Dead on the Anniversary of Her Brother's Death
Unexpected tragedy has sadly struck again for the family of the late George Michael.
BBC News reports that the Wham! singer's sister, Melanie Panayiotou, passed away at the young age of 55 on Christmas Day. This also marked the three-year anniversary of Michael's death. The family confirmed that Panayiotou died "suddenly."
Melanie Panayiotou passed away on Christmas Day - precisely three years after her superstar brotherhttps://t.co/Dzc3VM5AQo
— BBC Entertainment (@BBCNewsEnts) December 27, 2019
Not many details on her death are known at this time, with the family's official statement (released through lawyer John Reid) also including, "We would simply ask that the family's privacy be respected at this very sad time. There will be no further comment."
According to The Guardian, Panayiotou was very close with her famous brother, as the late singer even left £50m to her in his will, along with a large part of his estate. Panayiotou worked as a makeup artist.
Many people have taken to social media to share their condolences to the family.
George Michael’s sister dies 3 years to the day on Xmas day after her brother. How horrendous for their family. Thoughts and condolences and love ?
— Pat Sharp (@patsharp) December 27, 2019
We're thinking of Panayiotou's loved ones in this awful time. Rest in peace.