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Gay news: The 'pink sheep'of his family was just 40
Lee McQueen
Gay fashion designer Alexander McQueen commits suicide
Gay fashion designer Alexander McQueen was found dead at his London home this morning after committing suicide.
Paramedics called to his Green Park home pronounced him dead at the scene. Police said his death was not being treated as suspicious.
A statement released by his office - referring to the designer by his given first name, Lee - read: "On behalf of Lee McQueen's family, Alexander McQueen today announces the tragic news that Lee McQueen, the founder and designer of the Alexander McQueen brand has been found dead at his home.
"At this stage it is inappropriate to comment on this tragic news beyond saying that we are devastated and are sharing a sense of shock and grief with Lee's family.
"Lee's family has asked for privacy in order to come to terms with this terrible news and we hope the media will respect this."
McQueen's death comes just days before the start of London Fashion Week and weeks before March 9's unveiling of his new collection at Paris Fashion Week.
Born in the East End and the son of a taxi driver, McQueen was trained in tailoring in Savile Row, eventually making suits for Prince Charles.
His rise to fame included being named British designer of the year four times between 1996 and 2003 and International Designer of the Year at the Council of Fashion Designer Awards.
The 40-year-old, nicknamed the "hooligan of English fashion" because of his close-cropped hair and Doc Martens, was renowned for his designs for stars including Kylie Minogue and Lady Gaga and once described himself as the "pink sheep" of his family.
Three years ago his close friend, renowned fashion stylist and muse Isabella Blow, who was credited with discovering him as a young designer, killed herself after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer. McQueen subsequently dedicated his 2008 Paris Fashion Week show to her.
There were reports today that McQueen was grieving for his mother, Joyce, who died last week.
