Andrew Ridgeley reflects on the memories of his late friend and Wham! bandmate, George Michael, who passed away a decade ago on Christmas Day at the age of 53 due to heart and liver disease. Ridgeley, now 63, expressed his feelings while watching unearthed footage of the duo from 40 years ago, highlighting the void left by George’s absence and the inability to relive those moments together.

Describing George as a caring individual, Ridgeley emphasized the irreplaceable loss of his childhood friend with whom he shared formative years and musical success. The new documentary film, “Wham! 10 Days in China,” showcases unseen clips of the iconic duo as they embarked on a groundbreaking tour in communist China, captivating a new audience with their music and performances.

The trip to China, initially intended as a publicity stunt to break into the American music scene, turned into a significant cultural milestone as the impact of Wham!’s presence resonated with Chinese audiences discovering Western music for the first time. Ridgeley expressed his astonishment at the lasting legacy of their tour, underscoring the profound influence they had on shaping musical experiences in China.

Following their success in China, Wham! disbanded in 1986, allowing George Michael to pursue his solo career. Acknowledging the necessity of this professional separation, Ridgeley emphasized that they had achieved their goals as a band and that George’s solo journey was a natural progression. Despite the end of their musical partnership, Ridgeley highlighted that their friendship endured beyond Wham!, marking a new chapter in their lifelong connection.

As fans eagerly anticipate the release of “Wham! 10 Days in China” in cinemas on July 28th, the documentary promises to offer a nostalgic glimpse into the iconic duo’s journey through music history.