George Michael Sentenced to Community Service

LONDON, UK -- British pop star George Michael was sentenced to 100 hours of community service and banned from driving for two years Friday for driving while unfit through drugs.

The 43-year-old former Wham! frontman was arrested last year on suspicion of driving a car under the influence of cannabis. Michael had admitted the charge.

"I have been sentenced today on the basis of unfit driving through tiredness and prescription medicines, which I fully accept responsibility for," Michael told reporters as he emerged from the courthouse, smiling.

In the early hours of October 1 last year, London motorists called the emergency services after finding Michael slumped in his Mercedes-Benz car, which was blocking a junction.

He was arrested on suspicion of being unfit to drive and for possession of what was thought to be cannabis. He was taken to hospital before being cautioned for carrying the drug. Tests found a therapeutic quantity of an antidepressant and a low dose of a sleeping tablet in his system, as well as the illegal class C drug GHB and cannabis.

"I did something very stupid and I am very ashamed since doing it," Michael told judge Katherine Marshall.

"I really have been very distressed by this whole thing. I am perfectly aware that I did something very wrong and got into my car when I was unfit to drive."

Just a day after his sentence Friday, George Michael became the first singer to appear at London's newly reopened Wembley Stadium on Saturday.

Michael performed hits from both his days in 1980s-era boy band Wham! and from his successful solo career at the 90,000-seat stadium. The concert is part of his European tour.

The gay singer performed at the old Wembley several times and called the opportunity to be the new venue's first performer an "amazing honor."