Major Controversies Surrounding George Michael: A Detailed Timeline

Public opinion and media debates around George Michael—discover key moments of controversy.

George Michael was a highly influential English singer-songwriter and record producer, considered a pop culture icon. He achieved fame as part of the duo Wham! in the 1980s before embarking on a successful solo career. Known for his distinctive voice, songwriting talent, and captivating stage presence, Michael sold over 100 million records worldwide. His hit songs include "Careless Whisper," "Faith," and "Freedom! '90." Beyond his music, he was recognized for his philanthropy and later, struggles with personal issues that were often covered by the media. His impact on pop music and culture remains significant.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1987: Release of Faith album and "I Want Your Sex" single

In 1987, George Michael released his debut solo album, Faith. The first single released from the album was "I Want Your Sex". The song was banned by many radio stations in the UK and US, due to its sexually suggestive lyrics.

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April 1998: Arrest for public lewdness

In April 1998, George Michael's homosexuality became publicly known following his arrest for public lewdness.

April 1998: Arrest for lewd act in public restroom

On 7 April 1998, George Michael was arrested for "engaging in a lewd act" in a public restroom of the Will Rogers Memorial Park in Beverly Hills, California, in a sting operation by an undercover policeman.

1999: Lawsuit filed by Marcelo Rodríguez

In 1999, Marcelo Rodríguez, the undercover policeman who arrested George Michael, brought a US$10 million court case in California against the singer, claiming slander and that Michael's video "mocked" him.

July 2002: Release of "Shoot the Dog"

In July 2002, George Michael released "Shoot the Dog", a song with a video that showed Tony Blair as George Bush's poodle, during the lead-up to the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

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December 2002: Appellate court reinstated lawsuit

On 3 December 2002, an appellate court reinstated the US$10 million court case brought by Marcelo Rodríguez against George Michael after the initial court dismissed it.

2002: Release of "Shoot the Dog" Single

In 2002, George Michael released the single "Shoot the Dog", which was critical of the UK and US governments' friendly relationship, particularly the relationship between Tony Blair and George W. Bush, and their involvement in the War on Terror.

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February 2003: Recording "The Grave" in protest of the Iraq War

In February 2003, George Michael recorded Don McLean's "The Grave" in protest against the looming Iraq war.

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March 2003: Performance on Top of the Pops

On March 7, 2003, George Michael made his first studio appearance on Top of the Pops since 1986, performing "The Grave". There was conflict with producers due to anti-war t-shirts.

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2003: Context for "Shoot the Dog" Release

In 2003, George Michael's single "Shoot the Dog" was released during the lead-up to the invasion of Iraq.

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February 2006: Arrest for drug possession

In February 2006, George Michael was arrested for possession of Class C drugs and cautioned by the police.

July 2006: Accusation of public sex

On 23 July 2006, George Michael was again accused of engaging in anonymous public sex, this time at London's Hampstead Heath.

2006: Arrest for Drug-Related Offences

In 2006, George Michael was arrested for drug-related offences, marking a period of struggle with substance abuse.

2007: Guilty plea to drug-impaired driving

In 2007, George Michael pleaded guilty to drug-impaired driving after obstructing the road at traffic lights in Cricklewood, London, and was banned from driving for two years and sentenced to community service.

September 2008: Arrested for drug possession

On 19 September 2008, George Michael was arrested in a public convenience in the Hampstead Heath area for possession of Class A and C drugs and cautioned by the police.

2008: Arrest for Drug-Related Offences

In 2008, George Michael faced another arrest for drug-related offences, highlighting his ongoing battle with substance abuse.

July 2010: Arrest for crashing car

In July 2010, George Michael crashed his car into a Snappy Snaps store in Hampstead, London, and was arrested on suspicion of being unfit to drive.

August 2010: Charged with possession of cannabis and driving while unfit

In August 2010, George Michael was charged with possession of cannabis and with driving while unfit through drink or drugs.

September 2010: Sentenced to prison

In September 2010, George Michael pleaded guilty to driving under the influence of drugs and was sentenced to eight weeks in prison, a fine, and a five-year ban from driving.

October 2010: Released from prison

In October 2010, George Michael was released from Highpoint Prison in Suffolk after serving four weeks of his sentence for driving under the influence.