Reality Star David Gest's Death 'Non-Suspicious'
The former Celebrity Big Brother star was briefly married to Liza Minnelli and was a close friend of Michael Jackson
Gest pictured in Eastbourne on 5 April, a week before he was found dead
Reality TV star and music producer David Gest has been found dead in a luxury hotel in Canary Wharf.
Police have confirmed they were called to the Four Seasons hotel on Tuesday morning after the 62-year-old's body was found in one of the rooms.
A Scotland Yard spokesman said: "A post-mortem will be held in due course. Next of kin are in the process of being informed."
He's described the death as "non-suspicious".
Liza Minnelli and David Gest in May 2003
The former Celebrity Big Brother star was married to Liza Minnelli from 2002-2003, but they only officially divorced in 2007.
He was also known for being a close friend of the late Michael Jackson.
In 2001, he produced a two-hour documentary entitled Michael Jackson: 30th Anniversary Celebration.
Following the pop star's death, he helped produce a tribute about Jackson's life.
The TV personality gained a following in the UK recently when he appeared on Celebrity Big Brother.
At the 2011 London premiere of Michael Jackson: The Life Of An Icon
Close friend Imad Handi said in a statement: "David was truly larger than life. He was not just a huge talent and a dear friend but a showbiz icon.
"I know he will be missed by millions of fans around the world, and particularly in Britain, who came to love his charm and blistering one-liners.
"If I may steal the words of one eminent critic, David was a natural star and a genuine celebrity. I will miss him desperately."
Gest's friend and TV presenter Lizzy Cundy says she spoke to him over the weekend and had arranged to meet for lunch on Wednesday.
"I'm totally shocked," she told Sky News.
"When I got the call today, I just couldn't believe it.
"We've lost one of the most wonderful, kindest men ever."
Gest was due to go on tour again in July, with a show called David Gest Is Not Dead But Alive With Soul Tour.
The name was inspired by an incident in the Celebrity Big Brother House in January when American reality star Tiffany Pollard mistakenly believed Gest had died rather than David Bowie.
Celebrities have reacted to news of Gest's death with shock and sadness.
Coronation Street star Les Dennis said on Twitter: "David Gest was a talented producer, witty man and someone I was proud to call my friend. Shocked to hear of his death.
Christopher Maloney, who spent time in the Big Brother house with Gest, tweeted his condolences, writing: "OMG just found out my great friend David Gest has sadly past away. My thoughts are with your family at this time. RIP David x".
Post a Comment