Fashion Designer Alexander McQueen Commits Suicide

Gay British fashion designer Alexander McQueen was found dead in his London home Thursday morning after an apparent suicide, according to the Washington Post.

Reports claim the fashion designer hanged himself. He was 40 years old.

A spokeswoman for McQueen said, "Mr. McQueen was found dead this morning at his home. We're devastated and I hope you understand that out of respect to his family and his colleagues we're not going to be making any further statement."

McQueen Tweeted this week about his anguish over the recent February 2 death of his mother, Joyce.

On February 7 he wrote: "sunday evening been a ****ing awful week but my friends have been great but now i have to some how pull myself together." On February 3: "I'm letting my followers know my mother passed away yesterday RIPmum xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx." He then followed it up with: "but life must go on."

McQueen's clothes were distinctive and edgy, spectacular and distinguishing. His creations graced the red carpet and his work was highlighted and adored all over Paris, New York and Milan.

Celebrities such as Madonna, Lady Gaga, and Naomi Campbell wore McQueen's imaginative pieces. He was named British Fashion Designer of the Year on four separate occasions. In December 2000, 51% of Alexander McQueen was acquired by luxury brand Gucci, where he became creative director.

Queen Elizabeth II recognized him in 2003 when she made him a Commander of the British Empire for his fashion leadership.

Despite the accolades, McQueen was known to be cautiously quiet, bowing away from the limelight and turning down most interview requests that most designers craved.

McQueen was the youngest of six children.

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