Who Lives in Pop Icon George Michael‘s Houses Now?

As George Michael fans, it‘s only natural we‘d be curious about his amazing homes and who lives in them now. As one of Britain‘s most successful pop superstars with record sales topping 100 million, George had the means to own some incredible properties. Tragically, he passed away on Christmas Day 2016 at just 53 years old. But luckily, devoted fans can still get a glimpse into George‘s world by visiting his former homes where his spirit lives on. Let‘s take a tour and find out who the current residents are!

A Look at George Michael‘s Net Worth and Assets

First, it helps to understand the level of wealth George Michael attained during his legendary music career. According to financial reports, George had amassed a net worth of approximately £105 million (around $130 million) when he died. The bulk of his fortune came from the following sources:

• Music royalties – George earned massive royalties from sales of his solo work and Wham! records. He also owned lucrative publishing and recording rights.

• Concert tours – As a legendary live performer, George generated huge income from global tours and shows. His Faith World Tour in 1988 earned over £20 million!

• Business ventures – George earned additional cash from his merchandise, endorsement deals, investments, and other business activities.

• Real estate – George invested millions in real estate, including his two famous UK homes we‘ll profile shortly.

Some key assets and properties in George‘s estate included:

• A 16th century manor house in Goring-on-Thames he purchased in 2000 for £5 million. This was George‘s main residence and country escape.

• A lavish mansion in Highgate, North London he bought in 2002 for approximately £5 million.

• An art collection with works by Tracey Emin, Damien Hirst, and other famous artists.

• Ownership and control of his music publishing and recording catalogue worth an estimated £98 million.

• A fleet of luxury cars including Range Rovers, Mercedes, Ferraris, and more.

• Cash and investments totaling around £9.6 million.

Beyond the raw numbers, it‘s important to note George‘s incredible generosity during his life. He donated millions to various charities and causes close to his heart. Sadly, his net worth declined after his passing due to debts and taxes. But now, let‘s look at the fabulous homes he left behind!

George‘s Stunning Mansion in Highgate

One of George‘s most famous homes was his sprawling mansion located in the upscale Highgate neighborhood of North London. Records show he purchased this grand property in 2002 for approximately £5 million.

Built in the early 1800s, this iconic Highgate residence includes:

• 5 spacious bedrooms

• Multiple reception rooms and entertaining spaces

• A swimming pool

• Large private gardens

George spent several million pounds renovating and decorating the mansion to fit his luxury tastes. At one point, he even opened the gardens to the public for special charity events. This property was his "city base" when George needed to be in London for business or social engagements.

After George‘s untimely passing, his grieving fans created a memorial garden outside the mansion. For 18 months, devoted followers visited this spot to pay tribute to the musical legend.

In 2020, George‘s family made the difficult decision to sell this home for £19 million – nearly four times what he originally paid for it!

So who lives there now? The buyers were a couple named Stephen Cameron and Claire Harrison who were self-described "superfans" of George and his music. It seems they purchased the home primarily due to their love for George.

The new owners have kept the integrity of the mansion intact, retaining its original architecture and design. They also decided to open the gardens periodically to fans who wish to visit George‘s former home. How cool is that?

Inside George‘s Goring-on-Thames Country Manor

In addition to the Highgate mansion, George also owned an amazing country manor house in the village of Goring-on-Thames in Oxfordshire, England.

Known as Mill Cottage, George paid approximately £5 million for this rural 16th century retreat in the year 2000. It provided a peaceful escape from his hectic public life in London.

Ideally set on 15 acres along the River Thames, Mill Cottage is a sprawling property including:

• 5 bedrooms with a master suite
• Grand entertaining spaces
• Stone fireplaces and oak beams
• Staff annex
• Pool, tennis courts, football pitch
• 15 acres of landscaped grounds

George furnished this manor with antique decor, artworks, and opulent furnishings reflecting his luxury tastes. He spent a great deal of time relaxing and hosting friends at this country haven.

After George‘s death, his sister Yioda inherited Mill Cottage. She originally put it on the market in 2019 with an asking price of £6 million. However, the home did not sell and Yioda continues to reside there presently.

It appears George‘s magnificent country manor remains in the family for now, to the delight of fans who make pilgrimages to Goring-on-Thames to see it. The locals count themselves lucky to have such an iconic pop star‘s home in their quaint village!

How George Michael‘s Fortune Changed After He Passed

As discussed earlier, George Michael amassed an immense £105 million net worth during his lifetime. However, his finances changed significantly after his tragic passing for several reasons:

• The administration of his estate was highly complex and generated huge legal fees.

• His will left the bulk of his wealth to family – sisters Yioda and Melanie received £49 million each. His father and friends also inherited large sums.

• Substantial assets went directly to George‘s companies, like his recording catalog and royalties.

• Charities named in his will received donations, including Childline, Macmillian Cancer Support, and others.

• Taxes and debts ate into the remaining fortune.

According to financial reports, the estimated total value of assets passing to George‘s family and friends was £98 million.

While George Michael is no longer with us in body, his music lives on eternally. His homes also stand as beautiful symbols of his legacy. They are now in the care of people who cherish George and wish to preserve his memory. And that‘s certainly exactly as George would have wanted it!