My Fear of Death (1984)

 

My Fear of Death

Written by George Harrison

Daily Mirror

May 22, 1984

    Former Beatle George Harrison revealed yesterday how he lives in fear of being gunned down in the street by a mad gunman crazy for fame. 

    Harrison, 41, has never been able to relax totally in public since the murder of fellow Beatle John Lennon, over three years ago, and now he rarely goes outside his 35-acre estate at Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, without a team of bodyguards. 

    Harrison spoke about his secret fear when he made an unexpected appearance at the gala opening of the Chelsea Flower Show. He said, "After what happened to John, I'm absolutely terrified. I don't like being seen in public. I never know who might be around, and I don't like being photographed."

     John Lennon was shot dead outside his New York apartment in December 1980. After the killing, dozens of pop stars bought security systems and hired bodyguards to protect them. Now, guard dogs patrol the grounds of George Harrison's £2 million estate, and his house has a sophisticated alarm system. 

    Yesterday, Harrison was followed everywhere by two heavyweight minders who glared suspiciously at passersby. A leggy burnett, who refused to give her name was at his side. 

    The pop star, who has a team of 12 gardeners tending his estate, relaxed slightly as he spoke about the colorful show. "This represents real life to me," he said. "I love flowers and gardening, and it is a wonderful treat for me to see such a display." 

    A number of showbiz stars joined Harrison for a preview of the annual Flower Show. They include Penelope Keith, Susan Hampshire, and Bonnie Langford.