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.
Latest on Huck
This erotic zine dismantles LGBTQ+ respectability politics
Zine Scene — Created by Megan Wallace and Jack Rowe, PULP is a new print publication that embraces the diverse and messy, yet pleasurable multitudes that sex and desire can take.
Written by: Isaac Muk
As Tbilisi’s famed nightclubs reawaken, a murky future awaits
Spaces Between the Beats — Since Georgia’s ruling party suspended plans for EU accession, protests have continued in the capital, with nightclubs shutting in solidarity. Victor Swezey reported on their New Year’s Eve reopening, finding a mix of anxiety, catharsis and defiance.
Written by: Victor Swezey
Los Angeles is burning: Rick Castro on fleeing his home once again
Braver New World — In 2020, the photographer fled the Bobcat Fire in San Bernardino to his East Hollywood home, sparking the inspiration for an unsettling photo series. Now, while preparing for its exhibition, he has had to leave once again, returning to the mountains.
Written by: Miss Rosen
Ghais Guevara: “Rap is a pinnacle of our culture”
What Made Me — In our new series, we ask artists and rebels about the forces and experiences that have shaped who they are. First up, Philadelphian rap experimentalist Ghais Guevara.
Written by: Ghais Guevara
Gaza Biennale comes to London in ICA protest
Art and action — The global project, which presents the work of over 60 Palestinian artists, will be on view outside the art institution in protest of an exhibition funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies.
Written by: Cyna Mirzai
Ragnar Axelsson’s thawing vision of Arctic life
At the Edge of the World — For over four decades, the Icelandic photographer has been journeying to the tip of the earth and documenting its communities. A new exhibition dives into his archive.
Written by: Cyna Mirzai