Talk ’90s to me George Michael! – From tabloid target to shamelessly gay pop icon
Aug 18, 2025
Jack Guinness, curator of The Queer Bible and renowned author, joins Miranda Sawyer to dissect the impressive legacy of George Michael. They delve into his 1998 arrest for lewd conduct, turning a scandal into a powerful LGBTQ+ advocacy moment. The conversation highlights Michael's candidness about his sexuality, his struggles with fame, and the poignant love story with his partner Anselmo. With a blend of humor and heartfelt anecdotes, they celebrate his music, exploring how his art became a healing anthem for the community.
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The 1998 Arrest And Media Frenzy
- George Michael was arrested for a lewd act in a Beverly Hills public toilet on April 7, 1998, creating a media frenzy.
- Jack Guinness and Miranda describe how immediate tabloid attention made it the biggest day one arrest the arresting officer recalled.
Press Framed Act As Moral Exposure
- The arrest became a vehicle for tabloids to conflate a private sexual act with moral judgment about being gay.
- Jack and Miranda note how coverage blurred the act and identity, reinforcing shame rather than nuance.
Rejection Of Shame As Cultural Turning Point
- George's response to the scandal — refusing shame and reclaiming his identity — shifted public conversation about sexuality.
- Jack argues that this rejection of shame helped many queer people see a proud public figure refusing penitence.
