Boy George is distraught over his father's death from a suspected heart attack - before he was able to patch up their four-year rift.

The former CULTURE CLUB singer, 43, had wanted to reconcile with his dad JEREMIAH O'DOWD before his death on holiday in Egypt.

A spokesperson for George says, "He is very upset.

"He hadn't been close with to his dad in recent years. But deep down there was still a love there.

"There had been moves to patch things up. It's very sad."

The star, who is currently residing in New York, plans to fly back to England for the funeral.

His spokesperson adds, "He's determined to pay his respects."

12/09/2004 10:20