George Michael, the iconic singer known for his heartfelt lyrics and soulful voice, had a complex and impactful romantic history that shaped both his personal and professional life. His journey through love included significant relationships with Anselmo Feleppa and Kenny Goss, and he was involved with Fadi Fawaz at the time of his passing in 2016. Each of these relationships contributed to Michael’s evolution as an artist and a person, revealing the depth of his experiences with love and loss.
In the 1980s, George Michael briefly dated actress Brooke Shields, introduced to him by her mother. In her memoir, Shields shared that their romance lacked a sexual component, highlighting Michael’s respectful nature. Their connection was marked by moments of innocence and a sense of humor, reflecting the pressures of fame during that era. Shields recounted a poignant moment when Michael chose to focus on his career rather than pursuing intimacy, a decision that left her heartbroken but ultimately understanding of his struggles.
Michael’s first great love was Brazilian designer Anselmo Feleppa, whom he met during a performance at the Rock in Rio concert in 1991. Their instant chemistry was a transformative experience for Michael, helping him embrace his sexuality. However, their relationship faced a tragic turn when Feleppa was diagnosed with HIV shortly after they began dating. Michael described this period as profoundly dark, as he struggled with the fear of losing the love he had finally found. The heartache of Feleppa’s passing in 1993 marked a turning point in Michael’s life, deepening his sense of grief and solitude.
Following his relationship with Feleppa, Michael found companionship with Kenny Goss, an American businessman. They began dating in 1996, and Michael publicly came out as gay in 1998. Goss and Michael shared a decade-long relationship that, while filled with love, ultimately ended in 2009. Despite their breakup, both maintained a deep bond, with Goss later reflecting on their time together as a beautiful experience that shaped him profoundly. Their connection endured through the years, with Goss expressing that Michael was “truly the love of my life.”
At the time of his death, Michael was in a relationship with hairstylist Fadi Fawaz, who found him unresponsive on Christmas Day in 2016. Fawaz mourned Michael deeply, sharing tributes on social media that expressed the profound love they had for one another. In the aftermath of Michael’s death, Fawaz faced public scrutiny, which he found painful and unwarranted. Despite the challenges he encountered, Fawaz cherished the moments they shared together, emphasizing that those memories would forever be a part of his life.
George Michael’s dating history illustrates a man who navigated the complexities of love with both vulnerability and strength. His relationships not only shaped his identity but also enriched his artistry, making him a relatable figure in the realm of music and beyond. Through joy and sorrow, Michael’s romantic journey remains an integral part of his legacy, reminding us of the power of love in all its forms.