George Michael is preparing to return to music and go on tour.
George Michael
The 52-year-old singer has been making enquiries with various insurance companies about the "logistics" of touring again and the news is set to delight fans of the former Wham! star, whose last appeared on stage in 2012.
A source told The Sun newspaper: "This is a big step for George. There was a time when it seemed he might never make another public appearance.
"Friends said he was scared and had lost his confidence. But if he's asking about the logistics of getting back on the road it shows he must be improving."
"It's not clear if he'd be planning a major tour but festival slots and one-off appearances look extremely likely.
"Demand for him as a live act has never wavered."
The 'Careless Whisper' singer has shifted more than 100 million records throughout his career.
However, insiders believe there is a chance that George - who has previously had a string of public run-ins with the law while under the influence of alcohol - could be rejected by insurance companies and promoters because he has cancelled a number of gigs over the years.
An industry source said: "No one doubts George can sell tickets. But whether he'd fulfil his commitments is another story. A lot of companies will be unwilling to take the risk."
George's spokeswoman said: "There are no official plans yet."
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