Behind The Music Season 1 Episode 117 George Michael

George Michael was one of the most iconic and influential pop stars of the 1980s and 1990s, but his path to fame was not an easy one. In this episode of Behind the Music, viewers will get an up-close and personal look at the life and career of this talented artist, from his early days as a member of the band Wham! to his solo success and beyond.

Through candid interviews with George Michael himself, as well as his family, friends, and colleagues, viewers will get a sense of the man behind the music. They'll learn about his struggles with fame and addiction, his complex personal relationships, and the inspiration behind some of his biggest hits.

The episode begins with a look at George Michael's childhood and his early musical aspirations. Born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou in London in 1963, he grew up in a Greek Cypriot immigrant family and found solace in music from a young age. After forming Wham! with his friend Andrew Ridgeley in the early 1980s, George shot to stardom with hits like "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" and "Careless Whisper." But as the pressures of fame mounted, he began to struggle with addiction and personal demons.

As the episode progresses, viewers will see how George Michael's solo career took off with the release of 1987's Faith, which catapulted him to the top of the charts with hits like "I Want Your Sex" and "Father Figure." But his success was not without controversy, as the overtly sexual nature of some of his music and videos drew criticism from conservative groups.

Through it all, George Michael remained dedicated to his craft and to his fans, even as he faced setbacks and personal tragedy. The episode explores his relationships with his partners, including longtime love Kenny Goss, and his coming out as gay in the late 1990s. Viewers will also see how he used his fame and influence for good, with charitable work and activism supporting causes like AIDS research and LGBTQ rights.

Ultimately, the episode paints a picture of a complex and talented artist who left behind a lasting legacy in the world of pop music. It offers a glimpse into the highs and lows of his life and career, and a tribute to the man whose music touched millions around the world.