We wish we could call it a new low, but unfortunately we aren’t too surprised that a panicked 999 call made as George Michael lay dying has been leaked to the UK press.

The BBC reports that the family attempted to shut it down quickly, with “culprit(s) to be dealt with appropriately”.

A statement from the late singer’s lawyers said: “George’s family and friends are extremely upset and truly appalled that such a personal, painful and clearly confidential recording has been leaked.

“We firmly believe that anyone contacting the emergency authorities in situations such as this should be entitled to expect that recordings will not be released to the media and it is deeply distressing to the family that this transcript, and audio recording, has been made public.”

South Central Ambulance Service are investigating how the call came to be leaked, but we’re betting a large sum of money exchanged hands.

Get unlimited access to the coverage that shapes our culture.
to Rolling Stone magazine
to Rolling Stone magazine