British pop singer George Michael, who rose to fame with the band Wham! and sold more than 100 million albums in his career, has died aged 53.

Michael died at his home in Goring, England. His death is being treated by UK police as "unexplained but not suspicious".

The star launched his career with Wham in the 1980s and later had a successful solo career.

In a statement supplied to BBC, Michael's publicist said: "It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George passed away peacefully at home over the Christmas period.

"The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time.

There will be no further comment at this stage."

2016 - loss of another talented soul. All our love and sympathy to @GeorgeMichael's family. pic.twitter.com/3h4xqEDXR9

— Duran Duran (@duranduran) December 25, 2016

And now we lose George Michael. Only 53. Love to his friends and family 😢another very sad loss in this horrid year

— Phillip Schofield (@Schofe) December 25, 2016

The English singer, songwriter and record producer sold more than 80 million records worldwide.

He had seven No 1 singles in the UK and eight No 1 hits in the Billboard Hot 100 in the US.

Newstalk ZB correspondent Gavin Grey said Michael had been "pretty ill at times during his career".

In 2011 he postponed a number concerts after being hospitalised with pneumonia. Later, in 2013, he sustained head injuries after falling out of a car on a motorway.

LISTEN to interview with Newstalk ZB UK correspondent Gavin Grey above. 

- Additional reporting by The New Zealand Herald