George Michael secretly gave away millions — and didn't want anyone to know.The British singer-songwriter who first captured hearts with Wham! and later achieved worldwide success as a solo artist died on Christmas Day 2016.Known for his enduring hits and unmistakable voice, Michael also remained a fixture in the headlines for his often-public personal life.While his public life was endlessly scrutinized, some of Michael's most extraordinary deeds remained largely unknown.
The late star, who would have turned 63 on June 25, is the subject of a new book, "Tonight the Music Seems So Loud."OZZY OSBOURNE'S LEGENDARY FINAL PERFORMANCE RAISED A STAGGERING $190M FOR WORTHY CAUSESFollowing George Michael’s death in 2016, the public learned the true extent of his quiet generosity.For years, he donated millions — often anonymously — to causes including children’s welfare, HIV/AIDS charities, homeless shelters and disadvantaged youth programs.
He also funded IVF treatments, helped people in debt and supported countless individuals in need without seeking recognition.(Michael Putland/Getty Images)"We will never know how much George Michael gave away because it was secret," author Sathnam Sanghera told Fox News Digital. "He died with a net worth of around 97 million pounds (more than $128 million), but I suspect a lot of that money is still being given away by his estate.
The estate releases annual statements about the donations it has made.So his good work continues."George Michael, left, and Paul McCartney, right, perform during the Live 8 concert in Hyde Park, London, on July 2, 2005.
(AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis)For Sanghera, Michael's greatest achievement was compassion.Throughout his life, Michael frequently donated to charities supporting disabled children, cancer research, refugees and AIDS-related causes, just to name a few.He began supporting charities as early as the 1980s while he was in Wham!, and his dedication continued for the rest of his life.
As...