King Charles pays tribute to George Michael — a friend of the British monarch’s late wife, Princess Diana.
The king, 75, approved the use of the “Faith” singer’s image on a new series of coins at a meeting last week, alongside coins honoring the classic James Bond film The spy who loved me and the maid Marion, from the historical story of Robin Hood.
The Star Wars franchise — which was first filmed at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire, England — is also honored with coins featuring the Death Star and the Millennium Falcon, among others.
The details are set out in documents from the latest Privy Council meeting held last Wednesday, before Charles met British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Both occasions were rare personal encounters for Charles, who is currently being treated for cancer. It reduced most personal conversations, especially those in public places.
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The design of the new British coin with the image of George Michael.
Royal Mint/MEGA
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George Michael’s design represents his classic Faith look of aviator shades and a leather jacket, from the self-titled debut solo album, plus an engraving of the chorus of the famous title track.
“I wanted a detailed portrait that would capture his charismatic expression – I was particularly thinking of his iconic sunglasses,” designer Sandra Deiana said in a statement.
“It’s amazing to be able to pay tribute to his music and what you see in the design is really part of George Michael’s song,” she added.
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A new coin design with the image of George Michael.
Royal Mint/MEGA
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The singer – who died aged 53 on Christmas Day 2016 – was a friend of Princess Diana and attended her funeral in 1997 alongside Elton John. Throughout his life, Michael was known to attend parties at the princess’s London home, Kensington Palace.
The design — which will appear on coins ranging from 50p to £200 — is the latest in a series of Music Legends collectible coins which have previously featured Elton John, David Bowie and rock group Queen.
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George Michael’s estate also approved the design. “He would be extremely proud and genuinely touched if a national institution chose to honor his memory in this way,” George Michael Entertainment added in a statement.
Star Wars and James Bond designs are likely to appear later.
Although he was not seen over the weekend, Charles issued a new statement on the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Pictured during a previous visit to a Ukrainian church in London, together with his wife Queen Camilla, Charles praised the “heroism” shown by the Ukrainian people amid “unspeakable aggression”.
Signing the note, Charles R added: “My heart goes out to all those affected, as I remember them in my thoughts and prayers.”
Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education