ladbible logo

To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

George Michael's Sister Melanie Dies Aged 55

George Michael's Sister Melanie Dies Aged 55

Her death comes three years after her brother George passed away

Jess Hardiman

Jess Hardiman

George Michael's sister Melanie Panayiotou has died at the age of 55, a representative for the late singer has confimed.

Having been found at her home on Wednesday 25 December by her older sister Yioda Panayiotou, Melanie's death comes three years after her brother George passed away.

A representative for George Michael told the Mirror: "We can confirm that very tragically Melanie has passed away suddenly.

"We would simply ask that the family's privacy be respected at this very sad time.

"There will be no further comments."

In a statement also supplied the Mirror, the Metropolitan Police said: "Police were called by London Ambulance Service at approximately 19:35hrs on Wednesday, 25 December to reports of the sudden death of a woman, aged in her 50s, at an address in Oak Hill Park, NW3.

"The death is not being treated as suspicious by police.

"A report will be compiled for the Coroner into the circumstances."

PA

George - who was often referred to as 'Yog' by his family - passed away three years ago in 2016, also on Christmas Day. He died as the result of a heart condition, aged just 53.

A couple of days before Melanie's death, the Panayiotou family had issued a joint statement thanking George's fans for standing by them.

They said: "We have come full circle again and Christmas time (and the holidays), are upon us once more.

"I think we as a family, (there are lots of us, we Greek Cypriots, we're everywhere!!) have come to fully appreciate (although we already knew really), quite how much love there is out there in the world, for both Yog and his beautiful music.

"We know how much his lyrics can offer support when things are tough and help celebrate when times are good and life is going well... and that is just as powerful now as if he were still with us and as many of you say in your messages, it's a gift.

"It seems important that his generosity of spirit and natural empathy have touched you in a way that would have him embarrassed, all your kind words are really good to hear and we know you have always known his true heart."

George Michael performing in 2012.
PA

George had been close to Melanie, who had heaped praise on her brother just a month ago while speaking to The Big Issue.

Discussing new film Last Christmas, which is based on George's music, Melanie said: "As many of you know, Yog adored Christmas and he loved the idea of this film. I am sure he will be enjoying seeing Emilia [Clarke]'s amazing light bulb smile, something they share, across the celestial miles!

"And, most importantly, we all, together with our dear departed Yog (my 'very proud to be gay' brother - contrary to what you may have read recently!) wish a very merry, merry Christmas to Big Issue sellers and readers alike."

Featured Image Credit: Landmark Media

Topics: UK News, News