George Michael’s ex Kenny Goss invited to star’s funeral in stand for ‘acceptance’
George Michael’s former partner Kenny Goss has reflected on the singer’s infamous arrest and outing (YOSHIKAZU TSUNO/AFP/Getty Images)
George Michael’s former partner Kenny Goss has been invited to be a part of the late singer’s funeral by the family.
Michael and Goss were together from 1996 up until 2009, and Michael’s family hopes the gesture will show acceptance of the relationship.
Goss said he was “heartbroken” over the news that the form Wham! singer had died at his home on Christmas.
He said in a statement: “I’m heartbroken with the news that my dear friend and long time love George Michael has passed. He was a major part of my life and I loved him very, very much. He was an extremely kind and generous man.
“The beautiful memories and music he brought to the world will always be an important part of my life and those who also loved and admired him.”
Kyriacos Panayiotou, George Michael’s father, reportedly wants Goss to be part of the funeral to make a “public acceptance” of his sexuality.
A source told the Sun On Sunday: “It is not acceptable in our community to be homosexual and so that was very hard for George’s father, but we accepted George as he was.
“George was a hero for our community, and the Greek radio stations are expected to play the funeral in its entirety. We are all waiting for the word and will be lining the streets to pay our respects.
“He has chosen all the funeral details and pall bearers – some are coming from Cyprus, but it cannot go ahead until the body is released. That is a real source of pain for the family.”
The cause of death has still not been determined by police which is delaying the funeral, and many expect it may be March until the singer is buried.
It’s rumoured that the singer had been battling a heroin addiction, and died of an alleged overdose contrary to early reports of heart failure.
