celebrities calling michael a brilliant talent and miley cyrus thanking michael for his activism in the lgbt community. wham tweeted heart broken at the loss of my beloved friend. yours only, george. me, his loved es, his friends, the world of music, the world at large forever loved. elton john posted, "i am in deep shock. i have lost a beloved friend. the kindest, most generous soul and brilliant artist. my heart goes out to his family, friends, and all of his fans." george michael dead at the age of 53. an ugly end to the holiday weekend with blizzards and freezing rain slamming parts of the country. the severe weather not only closed roads, but also put one family in harm's way, leading to a harrowing survival story near the grand canyon. here's the details.