We hate to be the bearers of bad news, and this is definitely saddening for fans of the late George Michael.
Childline founder Esther Rantzen was going full-steam ahead putting together a tribute concert with the aim of raising money for the charity.
But her plans were dealt a crushing blow when the Wham! star’s estate wouldn’t sign off on the idea.
77-year-old Esther had already begun the process of securing the Royal Albert Hall when she got the news.
She spoke to The Mirror at the Pride of Britain awards, saying: “There will no longer be a tribute concert because his family said no.”
“It was a real shame as I’d have loved to celebrate his music and give the fans a chance to say goodbye – and it would have been to benefit his favourite charity, too.
“Once the family say no there’s nothing we can do.”
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It was reported that Simon Cowell and Sir Bob Geldof were expected to be involved in the tribute, and that it would have been a star-studded event.
George had been a patron of Childline for a long time, and even donated the proceeds from his 1996 number one song Jesus to a Child to the charity.
The beloved singer passed away on Christmas Day last year from heart and liver disease.
And fans are still paying tribute to him, leaving gifts and flowers in the garden outside his London home almost a year after his untimely death.
George’s estate said: “We don’t usually comment on private or business matters.”
It’s a real shame that Esther wasn’t allowed to put on the tribute that she felt George deserved – there’s no doubt he was worth it.
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But the wishes of his family must always come first, and so we understand and respect their decision. As long as George is remembered, that’s the most important thing.