Preloading

The Heartbreaking Reason George Michael Was "Angry" at the Media for Years

Aired on 05/26/2004 | CC
Editor's note: We were deeply saddened to learn of George Michael's passing. This is a moment from his May 2004 interview on The Oprah Winfrey Show.

For years, George Michael deflected questions about his sexual orientation. As the pop superstar revealed in a 2004 interview with Oprah, he resisted the media because, deep down, he was "incredibly angry" with them for putting his partner, Anselmo Feleppa, in a corner.

Anselmo had been HIV-positive, George explained, and for years, instead of going to a doctor in Los Angeles or Britain, Anselmo had flown back to Brazil whenever he needed treatment. He had been trying to keep his Catholic family from finding out. Ultimately, George believed, seeking treatment in Brazil may have cost Anselmo his life. Here, George opens up about why this experienced turned him against the media.

Original airdate: May 26, 2004