George Michael: The biography

by Rob Jovanovic

George Michael is an enigma.

Despite being one of the most open and vocal pop superstars on the planet, George Michael is also fiercely protective of his privacy.

From the formation of Wham! In 1981 he immediately found fame and fortune beyond his wildest dreams. This all-access biography uncovers the secret life of the pop star, following his skyrocket to fame and fortune through his solo career and up to the present day.

His music formed the soundtrack to the 1980s and he achieved all of this despite growing up in a dysfunctional family where his father openly proclaimed that George had no talent. Wham! split in 1986 but Michael went on to greater things as a solo artist.

Along the way Michael has been embroiled in several controversies—among them a court case with Sony; an arrest in a Los Angeles public toilet; minor run-ins over class-C drugs; and traffic offenses in London—but in a refreshing contrast from other superstars, he has been happy to address his issues head-on in and out of the media.

Rob Jovanovic's biography tackles all the factors and issues that formed George Michael as superstar as he stands today, and his place as a cultural icon.

It also, for the first time, analyses Michael's musical output and groundbreaking videos, and discusses for the first time his recent acclaimed worldwide triumphant 2006 tour, the first in 15 years as Michael returned from the music wilderness.

Genres: Biography, Music, Nonfiction

260 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 8, 2007

Reviews

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have been in love with George Michael since I was 11 years old, back when he was half the duo that made up Wham!, and when he went solo, I attended my very first concert at age 14, during his Faith tour. As his music has grown and matured, so too, have I, all the while, remaining an ardent fan, and over the decades, his music continued to evolve and connect with audiences as only a rare few musicians can. Like countless others, I was heartbroken to learn of his unexpected passing last Christmas Day, and marking the one-year anniversary, I decided to read this biography, to see if there was anything about my favorite musician that I didn’t already know.

His rise in Wham! in the 80s was as effortless as it seemed, while his solo career, beginning in the 90s, was simply a natural progression of his maturity and songwriting skills. This led to his growing confidence in his abilities, and his belief that his contract with Sony was merely an extension of the one he signed as a desperate 18-year old, not one that reflected his changing status, and he fought a losing battle with them in court to have that changed. From there, his personal life, which included his sexual orientation, became the fodder of late night talk shows for years. For a man who was so intensely private about his personal life, once aspects of it were made public (usually by his own making), he certainly didn’t shy away from the embarrassing questions asked, choosing instead to be direct, honest, and self-deprecating, which ultimately made him an open book, not an “enigma”, as the back cover of the book suggests (and those who really listened to his music knew he was gay long before the public bathroom incident effectively outed him anyway).

This isn’t exactly the “all-access biography” that “uncovers the secret life of the pop star” that it claims to be, as George doesn’t appear to have been interviewed or involved with the author’s process in any way, and it’s not an investigative report that discloses anything the public didn’t already know. So while I didn’t learn anything new about my favorite musician, it does serve as a somewhat comprehensive account of the late, great artist’s life, from his childhood and family life through his rise to fame, researched and compiled from previously published articles, interviews, and outside sources, and noted in the bibliography contained at the back of the book, along with a discography, videography, as well as other notable information. Published in 2007 however, the book is missing, of course, the last decade of the artist’s life, and therefore concludes, misleadingly, on a high note, with George celebrating ten years and pending nuptials with his then-partner, Kenny Goss, and just returning to touring—and for the first time, truly enjoying the experience—with his 25 Live concert tour. Despite not having any new music to promote, the 25 Live Tour was a resounding success, which I can personally attest to, having had the great joy to sit front row at one of these concerts! It served as a celebration of the artist’s 25 years in the music business, and showcased many of his greatest hits, but since the book is just shy of 200 pages, perhaps the author would consider adding a few additional chapters to a future, revised edition, where he includes the artist’s remaining years.

[Gary · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this biography by Rob Jovanovic but it failed to go any deeper than most George Michael followers already know. Not sure how if Rob Jovanovic ever met George Michael or whether he used information already available to the public. The book has no new revelations or inside information just regurgitated facts and the final months of his life are missing to really tell the whole story.

Criticisms aside it was good to reminisce about George Michael and Wham, true talent and sadly missed.

[Grada (BoekenTrol) · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I was a teenager, George Michael was one of the pop stars I had a crush on. As did so many others.
When Wham! ceased to exist, I more or less list track of him/them. Failing to register the period that followed, until I came across his album Older. And after that,vso many things happened in my own life, that I lost track again,vapart from the occasional mention of another scandal around his person. And of course his untimely death.

When I saw this book, I though it would be an opportunity to 'catch up', read more about his life and fill in the gaps that I had.

Somehow this book did that, but still I am underwhelmed by it. I have given it some thought why I would feel that way, and I think I have the answer.
This book felt like a collection of facts. Merely retelling the highs (and lows) of a fabulous musical career. The book read like this sounds: dry.
What I missed, was a more personal touch. If not from the singer or people that were close to him, then at least from the person that put together this book.
But more than quotes (taken from the book(?), articles(?), personal conversation (?) that are labeled as by George Michael, nowhere in the book is any personal touch visible or tangible.

Facts are nice, but I was looking for more about the person shining through the story about the singer/songwriter.

[readbyjulia · Rating 4 out of 5]

That book deserves 3 stars but my love for George outweighs the lack of depth into Michael’s life.

Don’t get me wrong - Jovanovic did a really great job with the research, but there’s so much more to tell…

[Michelle Grant · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you know me at all, you know that I was totally immersed in EVERY word.
My heart gives it a full 5 STARS.

[Jack · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good overview of the artist’s life and works.

[The Bookish Wombat · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn't realise when I bought this that it was published in 2007 so doesn't cover the end of his life. And the early publication date makes for some "interesting" comments on public figures who have since been disgraced.

[Ness · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this! His brilliant music will live on...

[Lyndi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have been in love with this man since I was 11 years old. I have seen him quitting Wham! To becoming an instant success at a solo career. Him making almost all his songs about sex, the infamous bathroom scene, the drugs and car accidents, him coming out of the closet. Basically the good, bad and the ugly. I came away from this book disgusted by the diva he has become. And probably will no longer buy any of his music and most definitely will never see another one of his concerts. While I didn't expect to find out he is a Christian, I feel sorry for him. He has so much going for him in life and he seems so sad and lonely. He still has a voice of an angel, but I'm finding the more I know about the "stars" of this world the more I dislike them as humans. Maybe I would have been better being in the dark on his beliefs and opinions. And now that I know what goes on in his concerts with bringing so many of his political opinions into it, and not just singing, I cannot and won't support that. The writing of this book was good, and I'm sorry that George himself was the reason for the poor rating. It doesn't have anything to do with the author. If I was rating solely on George it would have got a one. I came to a happy medium with the three rating as its not the authors fault what George has turned into. While I don't expect Mr. Michael to still be singing bubblegum pop records for teeny boppers, him becoming an adult and wanting to write more mature lyrics doesn't mean that they need to be filled with profanity and filth. I just read a book about Guns N Roses and I knew what I was getting into with that book. As they started out that way, so I am not a prude. I knew what I was getting into reading that, this I guess I had my blinders on and didn't want to believe it.

[Jamie Lymer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'v always been reluctant to read any autobiographies about George Michael partly for fear of finding out something about my greatest idol that I didn't like but also because I didn't want to be disappointed by the authors potentially prejudiced stance. However in this case I need not have worried. I'v been a fan of George from the very beginning and after reading Jovanovics biography, I think I like him more than ever and I didn't think that it was possible. Jovanovic treats his subject with the respect he deserves and while he is obviously a fan himself this is very much a warts and all biography, there is no sycophantic idolisation here. This is an honest portrayal of the life and career (up to 2006) of one of the greatest singer songwriters the world has ever known. I will definitely be re-reading this, probably several times over.

[Aysha Al-rowaished · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you don’t know much about George Michael this book gives you a nice look into him as a human more than musician ❤️ loved it to the very end

[Colin · Rating 5 out of 5]

so many rumours and stories over the years, a chance to put that all right at last - thank you george for all you have left us with.

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rob Jovanovic does a wonderful job capturing the life and artistry of one of the most talented musicians of our time. I truly loved this book—I couldn’t put it down and read it in just one day. It’s an easy yet deeply enjoyable read, offering an insightful and well-researched look at George Michael’s life, career, and personal struggles.

What makes this biography particularly compelling is how much of George’s story is told through his own words. His thoughts on his career, personal life, and challenges add an intimate touch, making the book feel like an honest and respectful tribute. Jovanovic does not shy away from discussing George’s personal and legal troubles, but he never lets those moments overshadow the true essence of his legacy—his extraordinary talent as a songwriter, producer, and performer.

The book begins at the very roots of George’s story, detailing how his father migrated from Cyprus with nothing to his name before meeting George’s English mother at a dance club. These details are crucial in understanding what shaped George both as a person and as an artist—his drive, his struggles, and the deep emotional layers behind his music.

George Michael was more than a pop icon; he was a musical genius, a man with a sharp sense of humor, a giant heart, and an uncompromising vision for his artistry. His determination was evident from an early age—taking full creative control of his music, from writing and composing to arranging and producing, often playing multiple instruments himself. This book honors that brilliance, showcasing his meticulous craftsmanship and deep emotional connection to his work.

Jovanovic’s exploration of George’s life is thoughtful and empathetic, shedding light on the heartbreak and loss that shaped him. Understanding the immense grief he endured helps frame his struggles with addiction in a more humanizing way. Rather than sensationalizing these aspects, the book presents them with nuance and respect, allowing readers to gain a broader appreciation for the man behind the music.

Perhaps the most bittersweet element of this biography is the reminder that George had so much more left to give. He was working on new music and editing a documentary about his life when he passed away at the young age of 53. It’s clear that he did not intend to leave this world yet, and that makes his untimely death even more heartbreaking.

Still, his legacy endures. Jovanovic captures the grace, artistry, and humanity of a man who poured his purest heart into his music. Anyone who reads this book will come away with a much deeper understanding of George Michael—not just as a gifted singer-songwriter, but as a complex, passionate, and unapologetically authentic individual.

This biography is a must-read for fans and music lovers alike. It truly honors George Michael’s life and work in a way that feels both honest and celebratory.

[Raül De Tena · Rating 3 out of 5]

Voy a ser totalmente franco a este respecto: es muy probable que si hubiera leído la biografía de George Michael escrita por Rob Jovanovic, quéséyo, en febrero, me hubiera horrorizado profundamente… Pero ocurre que, en vez de febrero, me la he leído en junio. Y la cosa cambia, chaval. ¡Vamos que si cambia! Y es que no es lo mismo leer en tu sofá mientras escuchas la lluvia repiqueteando contra los cristales de la puerta del balcón, desde donde es demasiado fácil convertirse en un implacable agente de la Santa Inquisición Esnob, que leer en la playita, al sol, cerca de tus amiguis, entre birra y birra en el chiringuito.

Hay libros escritos para ser leídos en febrero… Y otros que deberían llevar un faldón que indicara que su lectura florece en la temporada de calor. Como ciertas verduras. Como ciertas frutas. Como el apetito sexual que se hace más insistente en cuanto pasamos de abril a mayo. “George Michael” de Rob Jovanovic (editado en nuestro país de la mano de la editorial Roca) es como esas verduras, como esas frutas, como el apetito sexual: mejor en verano, cuando te aplicas lo de “relaja la raja” y de repente ya no hace falta que estés todo el santo día leyendo clásicos rusos y nuevas letras eslavas, sino que te puedes permitir alguna chuchería que te alegre la vida.

Porque, al final, de eso trata de esta actualización de “George Michael” (que ya se publicó en el año 2007 pero que fue revisada y compleada por el autor tras la muerte del artista): de alegrarte la vida con una lectura que, por tono, bien podría ser una especie de recopilación de artículos escritor para la NME. Ya tú sabes: si por algo es conocida la NME, es precisamente por ese tono que sabe ser informal incluso cuando está abordando temas serios. No es un tono que vaya a pasar a la historia, pero definitivamente es más solvente (y menos dañino para el alma) que el de los tabloides y la prensa amarillista.

Al fin y al cabo, ¿qué mejor que este tono a la hora de abordar una figura como la de George Michael? Porque, por si no lo sabías, y aunque pienses lo contrario (porque, mira, yo también pensaba que George fue una de esas estrellas que vivieron de puertas para afuera), resulta que nadie sabe a ciencia cierta qué ocurría con la vida de Michael una vez estaba lejos de los focos y los escenarios y las cámaras y los estudios de grabación. George Michael fue un hombre que defendió su intimidad como un jabato… Algo que, pobre Rob Jovanovic, es un putadón muy tremendo cuando lo que quieres es firmar la biografía definitiva de un artista.

Pero que nadie piense que a “George Michael” le falta enjundia. Ni mucho menos. Por la biografía escrita por Jovanovic circulan los básicos de la vida del artista retratado: sus inicios humildes y los problemas de autoestima que marcarían a fuego sus titubeantes primeros pasos profesionales, el éxito desaforado en Wham!, el tránsito hacia su carrera en solitario, los problemas legales (y larguísimo juicio) con(tra) su discográfica Sony, la huida del ojo público… Y, claro, también hay en esta biografía una buena ración de tomateo para quien sea esto lo que busque.

Puede que algunos de los tramos más brillantes del libro de Jovanovic sean aquellos que abordan la sexualidad (confusa primero, destapada después, beligerante al final) de George Michael. Y, sobre todo, cuando estas cuestiones sexuales son tratadas usando las mismas palabras del artista: “La gente no quiere oírlo, pero es la verdad. Pasé la primera parte de mi vida de adulto sin enamorarme, acostándome con todos, acostándome con hombres, acostándome con mujeres, creyendo que era bisexual. No tenía pruebas de nada más profundo. Pasé la mayor parte de mi vida profesional escuchando cuál era mi sexualidad, lo que era bastante agradable, porque yo no lo sabía. Podría haber seguido así por tiempo indefinido de haber continuado trabajando y utilizando la admiración del público como sustituto de lo verdadero“. Desde ahí, claro, hacia el tramo final de la vida de George, cuando admitió abiertamente sus innumerables escarceos en el sano deporte del cruising justificándolos con una visión repleta de humor: “Nunca he sido capaz de rechazar una comida gratis“.

Tampoco deja Jovanovic en el tintero las tres grandes relaciones amorosas de George Michael con el diseñador Anselmo Feleppa, el magnate Kenny Goss y el peluquero Fadi Fawaz. Aunque está claro que el que se lleva la palma es, evidentemente, Feleppa: “Michael dijo que Feleppa «le rompió las cadenas victorianas y le enseñó a vivir, a relajarse y a disfrutar de la vida realmente.» El cantante se había estado acostando con hombres durante años, pero eso iba a ser su primera relación duradera. La pareja se enamoró y Michael supo que estaba siguiendo una dirección de la que no había marcha atrás. «Es muy difícil sentirse orgulloso de tu propia sexualidad cuando no te ha aportado ninguna alegría. Pero, una vez se relaciona con la felicidad y el amor es fácil enorgullecerse de ser quién se es.»“.

De hecho, el fallecimiento de Feleppa a causa del sida marca un punto de inflexión en la biografía de George Michael, quien siempre creyó que su éxito estaba siendo equilibrado con una ristra de desgracias personales que empezó con la muerte de su amante y siguió poco después con la pérdida de su madre. Justo ahí, el artista parece tomar una decisión incólume: “Quiero que la gente sepa que en el futuro cercano, a no ser que haya algo realmente importante que decir, cosa que dudo, voy más o menos a desaparecer. Me he creado una plataforma desde la que puedo hacer música y eso es todo. No es que de pronto haya dicho, oh, soy un músico tan sensato y me tomo tan en serio que la gente solo debería escuchar mi música. Se trata únicamente de que la música tiene la suficiente fuerza como para mantenerse sola y mi prioridad actual es seguir siendo feliz“.

Curiosamente (o no), Michael mantuvo esta declaración hasta su muerte. Lo que, de nuevo, dificulta más todavía la tarea de Jovanovic como biógrafo. Puta bida, tete. ¿Cómo abordar los ya míticos escarceos (y pilladas) del artista en sus habituales rutas de cruising, su afición a las drogas, los problemas de salud, las amistades rutilantes de ahora sí y ahora no (con gente como Lady Di o Elton John) y, sobre todo, ese tramo final de su vida en el que parece que George solo era noticia por liarla parda detrás de un volante mientras iba fumado (o lo que sea que fuera)? Difícil. Muy difícil. Y ese es, probablemente, el gran problema de “George Michael“: que Rob Jovanovic no consigue sorprender en ningún momento. Por mucho que lo intente, pobrete. Todo lo que explica, ya estaba explicado con anterioridad. No hay grandes revelaciones surgidas de una investigación exhaustiva ni soplos de gargantas profundas dispuestas a tirar de la manta por un buen puñado de perras. George Michael quiso vivir fuera del ojo público… y así lo hizo.

Es precisamente por eso que su biografía, además de interesante, divertida, cachonda, informativa y lúdica, es una lectura perfecta para estos meses de calor. Porque, al fin y al cabo, no es necesario pedirle que sea el resultado de un proceso de investigación detectivesca digno de “CSI“… Esto es lectura palomitera. Y cumple como tal. Ahora el que tiene que cumplir eres tú: ¿qué haces leyendo todavía mierdas esnobistas? Deja el mamotreto con el que estés ahora mismo, píllate vacaciones y corre a tu playa más cercana a cepillarte este “George Michael” de una sentada.

Let’s go outside! Este es el mejor consejo que te va a dar nadie esta semana. De nada.

[Anne Paans · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book gives a good impression of George Michael’s live.

I was not particular blown away by the way it was written; as a reader you really feel you are positioned on the very back seat of the spectators row, but you can definitely read through the lines that George has had his fair share of life struggles (insecurities, anxieties, acknowledging your - not generally accepted - sexuality, and losing people really close to you) not making it any easier with his life under a magnifying glass because of an overwhelming instant star-status.

You’re not getting any answers by reading this book, nor getting any insights in what might have gone on in George’s heart, mind or soul. It’s keeps it’s distance. You are only left with sorrow once you’ve finished, wishing you could have done something for him, and at the same time being extremely grateful that his musical legacy will never leave us.

[Yan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leer este libro es un precioso viaje. Lo he disfrutado a cada página, a cada párrafo.
La vida de George Michael no es la típica de un famoso pretencioso quedando bien ante la prensa; era una persona real, con sus virtudes y defectos.
Gracias a Rob Jovanovic por llevar a los fans una recopilación tan verídica y fantástica de los hechos más importantes y livianos de la vida de Georgios, pues todos ellos conforman quién fue él.
Me da pena habérmelo acabado tan rápido.
Descanse en paz este maravilloso artista 🙏♥️.

PD: al final contiene una maravillosa recopilación de toda la discografía, videografía e incluso de los puestos que alcanzó cada uno de sus álbumes en distintos países. La guinda para una delicia de biografía.

[Csaba Everlast · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Biography provides an insightful and thorough look into the life and career of one of pop music's most iconic figures. The book delves into George Michael's journey from his Wham! days to his celebrated solo career, capturing his musical genius, personal struggles, and enduring influence on the industry.

Jovanovic's writing is detailed yet accessible, making it a compelling read for both fans and newcomers. The biography balances George Michael's triumphs and challenges, shedding light on his artistry and humanity. However, some readers may find certain sections lacking deeper emotional exploration.

Overall, this book is a fitting tribute to a legendary artist, offering a well-researched and engaging narrative of his life and legacy.

[Sally · Rating 2 out of 5]

An interesting book about George, with some private aspects of his life that i was not familiar with. I found the context of the book interesting, citing other artists of the time and their involvement i his work and the political landscape of places he performed.

I found the writing like something that a schoolchild would write eg. "he did this and the he did that and then a year later he did this again but better" It was written by a jounalist nd not a biographer, so maybe not their prefered style. If it were a book about someone that i wasnt as interested in, i think i would have given up early on.

[Cara Byrne · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the age of 10 when Wham! appeared on a Saturday morning show I was in love! 37 years later, I'm still a fan of George Michael. GM has been a major chunk of my life. I was absolutely devastated when I learnt of his death on Boxing Day 2016.

What I loved about this book was the feeling of George coming back to life. I could hear him say his quotes written throughout the book. With the Wham! days, I would watch every video mentioned in the book and relive the good times.

It was hard to read the struggles he went through and yes, at the end, I cried reading the tributes. Just made it all real again.

[Karen Mace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 1 of my 20 Books of Summer 2025

I really enjoyed this book, although as a big fan of George Michael it doesn't impart any new information and just charts his life and career in order, but did find the discography at the back very helpful and interesting.

There are some lovely colour photos used - I would have loved more! - and it gives a great overview of the struggles that George had, especially with the fame that he achieved that took away his peace and how he struggled to come to terms with it. A lovely book for any GM fan, new or old!

[Neal Obermeyer · Rating 2 out of 5]

Underwhelming — I appreciate the (apparently lifted?) direct quotes from George, but the music itself is treated as almost an afterthought.

I’m a George Michael fan who recognized I knew too little about his story, so that’s why I bought this book. The fact that there was very little in this book that I didn’t already know doesn’t make me think that maybe I was an expert after all; it makes me think this book is just unfortunately superficial.

[Katja · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better than one other George Michael biography I've read which focused so much on problems, this one was much more balanced and told about both the successes and the troubles. It's also quite neutral, there's no bias either way in the background which you can sometimes sense from the biographies. It's not going deep into analyzing, it's more a-matter-of-fact, peppered with interview quotes, but I rather liked the approach.

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Eh

The book I really wanted to read was George Michael’s biography “Bare” however since his early passing the book us unavailable in digital format and is over $400 for a used copy. This was informative but did not appear thoroughly researched or well written. The dictionary definitions were a bit kitschy at the beginning of each chapter and seemed to be put in as filler.

[Brian O'Leary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Provided quite the insight into all of George Michael's troubles with drugs, alcohol, sexuality, success, media. I never knew he had so many troubles, I know of the major ones, but so many issues with the law. He was a talented singer with many troubles. Too bad he could never get the help he needed.

[Julie Cluff · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book covered the Wham era, Michael's subsequent solo career, and everything leading to his untimely death.
It was an interesting read, and I was encouraged to listen to songs as I progressed through the book.
Wham were part of my childhood, and I loved George's solo material. His talent still lives on.

[Si Meadows · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite a good read as the author clearly did his research. However, because it's not written by George himself there does lack a certain warmth. Also, the definitions at the start of every chapter were a bit annoying after a while, I just didn't see the point in them!

[Nina Misson · Rating 5 out of 5]

'I think you can't be selective with truth and honesty so I always go that bit further than my own generation does and get myself into trouble. But that's my own dysfunction. If there's a hard way to do it, do it the hard way. That's me as well.'

[Mya-Ko Pritchard · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was a bit underwhelmed by the writing perhaps because the author is a journalist as opposed to a biographer? I enjoyed learning a few things about his personal life that I was unaware of but this book was definitely not a page turner for me.

[Christopher Wong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wholesome book which covers the beginning of his journey in Wham and then solo career it’s amazing how good his song writing is and how he was such a performer. R.I.P wish I was able to see him in concert when I was younger 🙃

[Kirstie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some interesting parts but as this is not actually authenticated by the great late GM I have taken much of it with a pinch of salt.