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Away from the glitz and glamour of his incredible music career, George Michael led a secret double life as an anonymous philanthropist.
Since his tragic death on Christmas Day, it’s been revealed George donated much of his wealth to the needy, gave health workers free tickets to his concerts and even volunteered at a homeless shelter.
But rather than capitalise on his good deeds, he chose to fly under the radar wherever possible. Many of those who witnessed the singer’s extreme generosity have now taken to social media to share their touching stories.
One fan, VectorVictoria, tweeted: ‘he gave a stranger in a cafe £25k as she was crying over debt. Told the waitress to give her the cheque after he left.’
UK TV presenter Richard Osman told how a game show contestant once revealed that she needed money to undergo IVF treatment.
‘George Michael secretly phoned the next day and gave her the £15k,’ he wrote.
Another woman revealed how the adored British singer worked anonymously at the homeless shelter she volunteered at.
‘I’ve never told anyone, he asked we didn’t. That’s who he was,’ Emilyne Mondo posted on Twitter.
Despite giving millions over the years to a children’s charity, founder Esther Rantzen revealed that George never sought recognition for his kindness.
‘For years now he has been the most extraordinarily generous philanthropist,’ she told the Press Association.
On the flipside, he did like to splurge and counted Australia as one of his favourite destinations. George spent $5.8 million on a luxury holiday home off the cliffs of Palm Beach, near Sydney.
To read our full, amazing tribute to George Michael, pick up this week’s New Idea, out today.
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