Family row over George Michael auction including ‘Faith’ guitar
The legacy of a pop icon often involves more than just chart-topping hits and iconic performances; it encompasses the tangible objects that once lived alongside the star. Recently, this story turned into a high-stakes family drama when items from the estate of George Michael, including an iconic guitar from his ‘Faith’ music video, were put up for auction.
These treasured possessions originated from the collection of George Michael’s personal assistant, Siobhan Bailey, who served as his PA for two decades, starting in 1984. Bailey’s collection included gold and platinum records, tour programmes, and personal letters, all reflecting a unique piece of celebrity history.
Following Bailey’s unexpected death in 2014, the memorabilia passed to her estranged husband, Ian Belcher, who subsequently chose to auction the collection at Sworders. This move immediately sparked controversy, as Siobhan’s brother, Gerard, publicly objected to the sale.
Gerard argued passionately that the items were Siobhan’s “personal, cherished possessions” and expressed that his sister would have been horrified to see them sold, suggesting they should have remained within her family rather than being monetized.
Belcher defended the sale, asserting that he was acting in Siobhan’s interest, as she was legally married, meaning he was considered next of kin and the rightful inheritor of the memorabilia. The tension escalated when Gerard accused Belcher of trying to “cash in” on the items, calling the auction a “breach of her privacy” and “egregiously shameful.”
The stakes were highest for the guitar used in the 1987 ‘Faith’ music video. While initial predictions suggested the guitar might fetch between £60,000 and £120,000, it ultimately commanded a remarkable £180,000 at auction, demonstrating the immense value placed on the tangible connection to Michael’s creative output.
The auction also featured other notable items, including a gold disc of Wham!’s ‘Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go’, which sold for £4,500, alongside signed records and award pieces. The dispute highlighted the complex intersection of personal grief, inheritance law, and the commercialization of celebrity history.
Though the auction was contentious, the focus remains on George Michael’s enduring cultural footprint. His music continues to resonate, with tributes emerging for his timeless songwriting and vibrant vitality. Former bandmates and collaborators continue to celebrate his legacy, including plans for new musical tributes and the release of new footage of his iconic ‘Faith’ tour.
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