Unreleased George Michael Wham! Film to Premiere Despite His Objections
Despite George Michael's disapproval, the historic 1985 Wham! China tour film, initially withheld, is set for release. Discover the untold story.
POLICY WIRE — London, UK — A film documenting Wham!’s historic 1985 tour of China, which the late George Michael vehemently opposed, is set for release. Michael, unimpressed with the director’s cut, had refused to allow its publication.
The 1985 tour marked a significant moment in Wham!’s career, as they became one of the first Western pop groups to perform in China. However, Michael’s dissatisfaction with the film’s portrayal led to its prolonged shelving.
Despite Michael’s objections, the film is now scheduled for release, offering fans a glimpse into this pivotal moment in the band’s history. The decision to proceed with the release comes amid renewed interest in Wham!’s legacy and Michael’s enduring influence on pop culture.
The film captures the band’s performances and interactions with Chinese audiences, providing a unique perspective on the cultural exchange that occurred during the tour. It also highlights the challenges — and triumphs Wham! faced as they navigated the complexities of performing in a then-closed society.
The release of the film is expected to generate significant attention, given Michael’s status as a pop icon and the historical significance of the tour. Fans — and music historians alike will be keen to see how the documentary portrays this landmark event.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)


