George Michael's extraordinary life and career are set to be adapted into a Broadway musical, in what could become one of the most high-profile stage productions centred on a British music icon in recent years. Plans for the project are still in the early stages, but discussions are understood to be taking place about how best to bring his story to the stage, combining his music with key moments from his life and career.
It was revealed by The Sun that George's sister Yioda Panayiotou, 64, has held private discussions with producers about bringing his story to the stage. The project is still in early development, but the intention is to chart his journey from global pop fame with Wham! through to his hugely successful solo career. The show is expected to feature some of his biggest and most recognisable hits, weaving them into a narrative that follows his rise to fame, personal struggles and enduring legacy.
The project is reportedly already being workshopped in New York City, with seven-time Oliver Award nominee Maria Friedman in talks to direct. Maria is known for her work in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Merrily We Roll Along. Speaking to The Sun, a source said George's family have previously turned down multiple offers over the years to adapt his life into film or theatre, but recent discussions have taken a different tone.
"Over the years George’s family have rejected countless big-money deals to turn his life into a biopic or stage show," the source said. "But in recent months Yioda has warmed to the idea - especially with this year marking a decade since her brother's passing." They added that the production is still being shaped and at the very early stages, but the aim is to tell his life story alongside his music rather than simply using his songs as a backdrop for a story.
Born Georgios Kyrgios Panayiotou, George Michael rose to fame in the 1980s as one half of Wham! alongside Andrew Ridgeley, before launching a solo career that cemented his status as a global superstar. His solo work included seven UK number one singles such as Careless Whisper, Faith, Fastlove and Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me, his duet with Sir Elton John. Across his career, he sold more than 100 million records worldwide.
His final live performance took place in October 2012 at London's Earl's Court. George died on Christmas Day in 2016 at his home in Goring-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. It was later reported that he died of natural causes linked to heart disease and inflammation.
