George Michael turns 50

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Chart-topper George Michael turns 50.

Michael first found success as the lead singer of the 80's pop group Wham! before launching a successful solo career.

The British singer has sold an estimated 100 million records over his career, but has made headlines in recent years more for his personal life than for his music.

In 1998 he was convicted of a 'lewd act' and almost ten years later had to turn in his driver's license after being found asleep in his car.

Michael hasn't been spotted publicly since a recent accident in which he fell out of a car onto a motorway.

A spokeswoman for the singer said he is "fiercely private" and will have a quiet birthday with his friends and family.

The birthday boy turns 50 on June 25th.