On December 25, news broke that former Wham! vocalist George Michael had "passed peacefully" in his home. Many heartbroken artists, celebrities, and politicians turned to social media, where they paid tribute to the legendary British singer. While George Michael will be remembered for his hugely successful recording career, his impact on pop music, and his role as a gay icon, the singer will also be remembered for his unapologetic spirit.
In a 2011 clip for BBC Comic Relief, George Michael exhibits that same spirit in a sketch with James Corden that later provided the inspiration for Carpool Karaoke, the viral segment on Corden's Late Late Show. In the video, Corden plays a repairman named Smithy and George Michael plays his best friend who wants to tag along on an emergency call. After he rails on George for being "a joke," Smithy turns on Wham!'s classic "I'm Your Man" to cheer his buddy up. In true Carpool Karaoke fashion, the two jam out together while driving. Watch selected clips above and view the full skit here.
James Corden was one of the celebrities who paid their respects on social media after news of Michael's death. “I’ve loved George Michael for as long as I can remember,” Corden wrote. “He was an absolute inspiration. Always ahead of his time.”
